Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that inhibits the ability to focus and pay attention. It can also cause behavioral changes and alter an individual’s quality of life.
ADHD affects both children and adults, however, it is more common in children. The CDC approximates that over 6 million children have a diagnosis with this disorder, and one-half of those children have a behavior or conduct problem [1].
Living with ADHD can be very difficult and cause many disruptions in a person’s life. It is important to treat this condition appropriately so that someone dealing with this disorder can perform daily activities unobstructed. Desoxyn is a medication that may be prescribed to treat ADHD.
1) Quick Overview
Desoxyn, also known by its generic name, Methamphetamine, is a central nervous system stimulant that is FDA approved for the treatment of ADHD in adults and children as young as 6 years old. It is also indicated to treat obesity. It works by improving focus and concentration, and by decreasing impulsivity and hyperactive behavior. It also suppresses appetite.
The DEA schedules this drug as a CII, meaning it has a high potential for dependence and addiction. Consuming methamphetamine may cause a euphoric state, or sense of pleasure, making it a strong candidate for abuse. Desoxyn should only be taken if prescribed directly to you or your child by a physician.
2) Who Makes Desoxyn
Desoxyn is produced by Recordati Rare, an international pharmaceutical company based in Milan, Italy. They also have headquarters located in New Jersey. Established in 1990, the organization’s primary focus is to provide treatment to patients with rare diseases.
3) Ingredients of Desoxyn
Desoxyn is available as a 5 mg tablet. The active ingredient of this medication is methamphetamine hydrochloride. Inactive ingredients found in the tablet include:
- Corn starch
- Lactose
- Aminobenzoate sodium
- Stearic acid
- Talc
4) Does Desoxyn Work?
Although the mechanism of action of methamphetamine for ADHD is not fully understood, it is believed to improve symptoms by boosting the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are found in the brain, and it is thought that by increasing their levels, a person’s capacity to concentrate over long periods of time is increased.
Currently, there are no studies available on the efficacy of Desoxyn for the treatment of ADHD, however, there are many studies that show that stimulants, in general, are effective in managing symptoms of ADHD.
5) What Desoxyn Does?
Using Desoxyn provides many benefits for people who have ADHD. Some of these benefits include:
- Increases ability to stay focused
- Enhances attention span
- Controls behavioral problems
- Ability to organize tasks better
- Improves listening skills
- Elevates mood
- Augments alertness
- Increases energy in fatigued individuals
- Assists with weight loss
- Decreases appetite
6) Side Effects of Using Desoxyn
Common side effects that may be experienced with this drug are:
- High blood pressure
- Palpitations
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Tremor
- Rash
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
More serious side effects include:
- Cardio-respiratory arrest
- Heart attack
- Seizure
- Psychotic disorder
- Sudden death (rare)
7) Desoxyn Warnings and Precautions
Desoxyn is a controlled substance and has a high risk for abuse and misuse. The active ingredient, methamphetamine, is significantly stronger than other stimulants used to treat ADHD, therefore Desoxyn is usually prescribed if other stimulants like Dexedrine and Adderall had little to no success in improving outcomes. This drug should not be used in patients who have a history of drug abuse. Patients who abuse this drug exhibit severe mood swings, violent behavior, paranoia, and hallucinations.
Because this drug can cause irregular heartbeats and raise blood pressure, Desoxyn should be avoided or closely monitored in people who have cardiovascular disease. This drug also interacts with decongestants that are found in many over-the-counter cough and cold products. Since the medication in these products can increase blood pressure, you should consult with your doctor before taking medicines over the counter to ensure there is no interaction.
Taking this drug with certain antidepressants including MAOIs, SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and the herbal supplement, St. John’s wort can lead to a serious reaction called serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
8) Where to Purchase Desoxyn
Desoxyn is a medication that can only be obtained with a prescription and filled at a pharmacy.
9) Desoxyn Price
Desoxyn is an expensive medication. For 60 pills, the cost is over $1000; however, there are discounts available that can lower the expense. For example, GoodRx can lower the cost to approximately $200, depending on which pharmacy the medication is purchased.
If you have insurance and your insurance company covers Desoxyn then the cost would be your copayment.
10) Suggested Use
The dose for Desoxyn is generally 5 mg once daily or every 12 hours. The dose may be increased by 5 mg weekly up to 25 mg per day. The lowest effective dose should always be utilized.
11) What the Customer Desoxyn Reviews Say
"I have been on every derivative and variation of stimulant, SSNRis SSRI, Tricyclics, beta-blockers, and all sorts of combinations of above and never have come across such a fantastic compound." [Read full review]
---Phamphoe
"First, I'm a male in his 30's I weigh 195lb and am 5'8. Currently, I'm on 5mg of Desoxyn. I feel a little foggy today, but for the first time, I'd say in my life I woke up the first time the alarm went off at 5:30 and stayed up. If you don't feel good on Adderall, then get off of it. " [Read full review]
---Tanko
"After being prescribed nearly every type of stimulant/ADD medication, I finally found a doctor who was open-minded enough to prescribe Desoxyn for ADD and treatment-resistant depression. The problem with Ritalin, Adderall, Dexedrine is that for a necessary therapeutic dose to be reached." [Read full review]
---Anders
12) Our Final Take On Desoxyn
ADHD is a mental disorder that can severely impact a person’s life and ability to function optimally. For children, it can be very disruptive in forging social relationships, and it can hinder academic achievement. It is important, therefore, that ADHD be treated appropriately.
Although Desoxyn can be very effective in treating and improving symptoms of ADHD, it should be reserved for cases that have had unsuccessful treatment with other stimulants. This is a powerful drug with many potential adverse effects and the risk for abuse with this medication is high.
If a patient has severe ADHD symptoms, and other drugs have failed at improving those symptoms, then Desoxyn may be the right medication for you or your child. We recommend making this decision in consultation with your physician or your child’s pediatrician.