Some precautions and warnings to be aware of with Desoxyn include the following:
Amphetamines (including Desoxyn) are often abused. Taking Desoxyn or other amphetamines for long periods of time can lead to dependence on such drugs (see Methamphetamine Addiction and Abuse). Because Desoxyn is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing Desoxyn (see Methamphetamine: A Controlled Substance for more information).
Because Desoxyn contains methamphetamine (a frequently abused drug), it should be prescribed rarely, only when other treatments have been tried first. You should never increase your Desoxyn dose without the approval of your healthcare provider.
When used for obesity treatment, Desoxyn will begin to be less effective within a few weeks. When this happens, Desoxyn should be discontinued (it should not be increased or continued in any way) to reduce the chance of Desoxyn dependence or abuse.
Never use Desoxyn for treating fatigue or as a replacement for sleep.
If you have high blood pressure (hypertension), it's important to make sure your healthcare provider is aware of it before you start taking Desoxyn. If you have mild high blood pressure, he or she will likely wish to use particular caution in your case. People with moderate or severe high blood pressure should not take Desoxyn.
Desoxyn is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that Desoxyn may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Talk with your healthcare provider before using Desoxyn during pregnancy (see Methamphetamine and Pregnancy for more information).
Desoxyn passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider. He or she can decide whether taking Desoxyn while breastfeeding would be okay for your particular situation.
Desoxyn can worsen tics that are caused by Tourette syndrome. Tell your healthcare provider if you (or your child) have Tourette syndrome before starting Desoxyn.
Desoxyn can cause decreased weight gain and temporarily slow the growth of children. This slowing of growth is usually minor, and children usually catch up to normal growth rate with time. Your child's growth should be monitored while he or she is taking Desoxyn.
Desoxyn may affect your ability to perform tasks that require complete concentration, such as driving, operating machinery, or piloting an airplane, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting Desoxyn.