Brand Names

Adzenys XR-ODT, Dyanavel XR, Evekeo, Evekeo ODT

What is amphetamine used for? 

Amphetamine is in a class of medications called “stimulants” that are used for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity and narcolepsy (uncontrollable sleepiness).

What are the most common side effects seen with amphetamine? 

• Decreased appetite 

• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)

• Abdominal pain

• Emotional lability (moodswings, irritability) 

• Accidental injury (poisonings and procedural complications)  

Contraindications

• Amphetamine should not be taken if your child has had an anaphylactic reaction (hives or swelling of the tongue) to amphetamine previously. 

• Amphetamine should not be taken if your child is currently taking or has taken a medication in a drug class called monoamine oxidase inhibitors within 14 days. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors include: 

  • Isocarboxazid

  • Phenelzine 

  • Selegiline 

  • Tranylcypromine 

  • Moclobemide

  • Linezolid

  • Methylene Blue 

Tips & Tricks to administer amphetamine

• Amphetamine comes in a variety of formulations (tablets, orally disintegrating tablets (ODT), capsules, liquid). Each formulation should be taken in the specific manner recommended by the manufacturer and the pharmacy (will be written on the label). 

Breast feeding considerations 

• Amphetamine is concentrated in breast milk if being taken by the mother. 

• Per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), amphetamine is contraindicated during breastfeeding. 

Storage Considerations 

Almost all ADHD medications have a high potential of abuse and misuse which can lead to addiction. Due to this risk, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has classified these medications as a controlled substance (C-II). In order to dispense these medications, pharmacies must follow a strict set of rules and regulations set by the DEA. 

At home, these medications should be stored in a safe location that cannot be easily found and accessed by guests, visitors or other family members.

The information in this database regarding prescription drugs is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interaction or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. See disclaimer.