Metamfetamine

Teratogenic effects

Pregnancy Category C.

Methamphetamine has been shown to have teratogenic and embryocidal effects in mammals given high multiples of the human dose. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Methamphetamine should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Nonteratogenic effects

Infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight. Also, these infants may experience symptoms of withdrawal as demonstrated by dysphoria, including agitation and significant lassitude.

Amphetamines are excreted in human milk. Mothers taking amphetamines should be advised to refrain from nursing.

Data are not available on long-term potential for carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or impairment of fertility.

The patient should be informed that methamphetamine may impair the ability to engage in potentially hazardous activities, such as, operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle.

The following are adverse reactions in decreasing order of severity within each category that have been reported:

Cardiovascular: Elevation of blood pressure, tachycardia and palpitation. Fatal cardiorespiratory arrest has been reported, mostly in the context of abuse/misuse.

Central Nervous System: Psychotic episodes have been rarely reported at recommended doses. Dizziness, dysphoria, overstimulation, euphoria, insomnia, tremor, restlessness and headache. Exacerbation of motor and phonic tics and Tourette’s syndrome.

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, constipation, dryness of mouth, unpleasant taste and other gastrointestinal disturbances.

Hypersensitivity: Urticaria.

Endocrine: Impotence and changes in libido; frequent or prolonged erections.

Musculoskeletal: Rhabdomyolysis.

Miscellaneous: Suppression of growth has been reported with the long-term use of stimulants in children.

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Alopecia.