amphetamines
a group of drugs that are chemically similar to ADRENALINE and have a stimulating effect on the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM . They act on the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM and produce feelings of mental alertness and wellbeing, eliminating tiredness. They are highly addictive and dangerous, and their medical use (mainly in the treatment of hyperkinetic syndrome, a mental disorder in children) is very strictly controlled.
Dextroamphetamine is used to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; more difficulty focusing, controlling actions, and remaining still or quiet than other people who are the same age) and to treat narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep). Dextroamphetamine is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking amphetamines affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
Taking prescribed dextroamphetamine-amphetamine as directed by a healthcare provider is not expected to make it harder to get pregnant. If you have concerns about fertility while taking this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking amphetamines increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet notes that taking prescribed dextroamphetamine-amphetamine as directed is not expected to increase the chance of miscarriage. Any specific concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking amphetamines increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy begins with a 3–5% background risk of birth defects. Most studies, including a large study of people taking stimulants for ADHD during pregnancy, have not shown an increased risk of birth defects with first-trimester use of dextroamphetamine or amphetamine. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits of treatment against any potential risks.
Can taking amphetamines during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Data are limited, but use during pregnancy has sometimes been associated with a higher chance of poor fetal growth (smaller size or smaller head size), low birth weight, or preterm delivery. Medication side effects such as decreased appetite, weight loss, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure may also be relevant. Talking with your healthcare provider about monitoring during pregnancy can help support outcomes for you and your baby.
Can taking amphetamines during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
A Danish study that looked at ADHD medications as a group suggested no increase in neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD in children of people who continued their ADHD medication during pregnancy compared with those who stopped before pregnancy. This evidence is limited because it grouped medications together, so individual questions are best discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking amphetamines?
There are no studies specifically on amphetamine-dextroamphetamine combination products in breastfeeding, though each medication individually is known to pass into breast milk. No adverse effects were reported in 4 infants whose mothers took dextroamphetamine for ADHD, but effects on infant behavior and brain development have not been well studied, and large doses may lower milk supply in people newly breastfeeding. The product label advises against use while breastfeeding, but benefits may outweigh risks in some situations—this is a decision to make with your healthcare provider, pediatrician, or a lactation consultant.
Source: National Library of Medicine
amphetamines