Drug
Amphetamine Sulfate
Pronounced
"am-FET-a-meen"
Uses
This medication is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - ADHD. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Amphetamine belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants. It can help increase your ability to pay attention, stay focused on an activity, and control behavior problems. It may also help you to organize your tasks and improve listening skills.
Warning
Misuse or abuse of amphetamines may cause serious (possibly fatal) heart and blood pressure problems. Amphetamine-type medications can be habit-forming. Use only as directed. If you use this drug for a long time, you may become dependent on it and may have withdrawal symptoms after stopping the drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. (See also How to Use section.)
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking amphetamine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 3 times a day. The first dose is usually taken when you wake up in the morning. If more doses are prescribed, take them as directed by your doctor, usually 4 to 6 hours apart.
Keep the medication in the original package until you are ready to take a dose. Dry your hands before handling the medication. To remove a tablet, push the tablet through the foil of the blister pack. Place the tablet on your tongue, allow it to dissolve, and swallow with your saliva. You do not need to take this medication with water or other liquid. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Your doctor may adjust your dose to find the dose that is best for you. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
During treatment, your doctor may sometimes stop the medication for a short time to see if the medication is still needed.
If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as severe tiredness, sleep problems, agitation). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used amphetamine for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.
When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.