Methamphetamine precautions

List of precautions
Abuse Hypertension Fatigue Limited dosages

Abuse
Methamphetamine has been extensively abused. Tolerance, extreme psychological dependence, and severe social disability have occurred. There are reports of patients who have increased the dosage to many times that recommended. Abrupt cessation following prolonged high dosage administration results in extreme fatigue and mental depression; changes are also noted on the sleep EEG. Manifestations of chronic intoxication with methamphetamine include severe dermatoses, marked insomnia, irritability, hyperactivity, and personality changes. The most severe manifestation of chronic intoxication is psychosis often clinically indistinguishable from schizophrenia. Return to top

Hypertension
Methamphetamine should be used with caution in patients with even mild hypertension. Return to top

Fatigue
Methamphetamine should not be used to combat fatigue or to replace rest in normal persons. Return to top

Limited dosages
Prescribing and dispensing of methamphetamine should be limited to the smallest amount that is feasible at one time in order to minimize the possibility of overdosage. Return to top