ADHD Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Desoxyn
Desoxyn is a prescription medicine that is licensed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity. As a form of ADHD treatment, the medication can produce a calming effect by affecting certain chemicals in the brain. As a short-term obesity treatment, it can help people lose weight by suppressing appetite and boosting metabolism. Desoxyn is an amphetamine; it is also a controlled substance, meaning that there are special rules concerning how it is prescribed.
Desoxyn® (methamphetamine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is also used for short-term obesity treatment. Because Desoxyn is an amphetamine and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Methamphetamine: A Controlled Substance for more information).
It is manufactured by Ovation Pharmaceuticals.
As mentioned above, Desoxyn is licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (or ADHD for short) in children six years old and older. In addition to hyperactivity (having trouble sitting still), people with ADHD also have problems paying attention, focusing, and controlling their behavior. While most people think of ADHD as a problem in children, it can also occur in adults (see Adult ADHD).
Although Desoxyn has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating ADHD in adults, healthcare providers may prescribe it "off-label" for adults with ADHD.
The medication is also licensed for obesity treatment. When it is used to treat obesity, Desoxyn is recommended only for short-term use (for a few weeks) and should be combined with calorie reduction and exercise.
(Click Desoxyn Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD