Methamphetamine Side Effects

In the case of methamphetamine, side effects may include high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and dizziness. Other possible side effects include insomnia, headache, and diarrhea. Hallucinations, heart palpitations, and allergic reactions are examples of more serious side effects of methamphetamine -- if you experience any of these, contact your healthcare provider.

 

An Introduction to Methamphetamine Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects of methamphetamine hydrochloride (Desoxyn®) are possible. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If methamphetamine side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with methamphetamine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of methamphetamine side effects with you.)
 

Side Effects of Methamphetamine to Report

Some side effects with methamphetamine, while perhaps not as common, could indicate a serious problem and should be reported to your healthcare provider.
 These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Confusion
  • Chest tightness
  • Chest pain or heart palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
  • More outgoing or aggressive behavior than normal
  • Strange behavior
  • Hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not really there)
  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Uncontrolled movements of the head, neck, mouth, arms, or legs (known as tics)
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
 
    • Unexplained rash
    • Itching
    • Hives
    • Trouble breathing
    • Unexplained swelling.
 
(Methamphetamine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;