Beskrivning

Amphetamines – Central Nervous System Stimulants (Controlled Substances, Rx)

Amphetamines are a class of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medications used primarily in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

They work by increasing the levels of key neurotransmitters—especially dopamine and norepinephrine—in the brain. This enhances focus, alertness, attention control, and wakefulness.

Amphetamines include several formulations such as dextroamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and mixed amphetamine salts, each with different release profiles and durations of action.

Due to their strong stimulant effects and potential for misuse, they are classified as controlled substances in most countries.

 Nyckelfakta

• Drug Class: CNS stimulant (amphetamine-based compounds)
• Active Forms: Dextroamphetamine, levoamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, mixed salts
• Indikationer:
  • ADHD (barn och vuxna)
  • Narkolepsi
• Mechanism of Action: Increases dopamine and norepinephrine release + blocks reuptake
• Therapeutic Effects: Improved attention, reduced impulsivity, increased wakefulness
• Prescription Status: Strictly controlled prescription medication

 Specifikationer

• Dosage Forms: Immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules, prodrugs (e.g., lisdexamfetamine)
• Common Strengths: Varies (e.g., 5 mg–70 mg depending on formulation)
• Onset of Action:
  • Immediate-release: 30–60 minutes
• Varaktighet av åtgärd:
  • IR: ~4–6 hours
  • XR: ~10–14 hours
• Half-Life: ~9–13 hours (varies by compound)
• Metabolism: Hepatic
• Utsöndring: Renal
• Förvaring: Rumstemperatur

 Dosering och administrering

• Must be individually prescribed and carefully titrated
• Typically taken once or twice daily depending on formulation
• Usually administered in the morning to avoid insomnia
• Treatment is often combined with behavioral therapy (for ADHD)
• Requires ongoing medical monitoring

 Kompatibilitet / Lämplig användning

• Patienter diagnostiserade med ADHD
• Individer med narkolepsi (överdriven dagtrötthet)
• Used within structured treatment plans including behavioral interventions
• Requires regular cardiovascular and mental health monitoring

 Varningar och försiktighetsåtgärder

• Risk of dependence, misuse, and addiction
• Kan öka hjärtfrekvens och blodtryck
• Can worsen anxiety, agitation, or psychosis in susceptible individuals
• May suppress appetite and affect weight
• Can cause insomnia if taken late in the day
• Requires careful monitoring in children and adolescents

 Kontraindikationer

• Advanced cardiovascular disease
• Moderate to severe hypertension
• Hyperthyroidism
• Glaucoma
• History of substance misuse (relative contraindication)
• Use with MAO inhibitors (dangerous interaction)

Why Amphetamines Are Used

Amphetamines are among the most effective treatments for ADHD and narcolepsy, significantly improving focus, attention, and wakefulness when used correctly under medical supervision. However, they require strict control due to high misuse and dependence potential.