Medically reviewed badge

Desoxyn Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment Options

Addiction, tolerance, and physical dependence are concerns for anyone who uses Desoxyn. Tolerance is the need for frequent use to produce the wanted effects


Questions about treatment?
  • Access to licensed treatment centers
  • Information on treatment plans
  • Financial assistance options
We're available 24/7
Call American Addictions centers help information

Desoxyn is the brand name of a medication approved to treat ADHD in children 6 and over as well for the short-term treatment of obesity in children and adults over the age of 12.1  Desoxyn contains methamphetamine, which is frequently abused, particularly in its illicit forms.3

Addiction, tolerance, and physical dependence are concerns for anyone who consumes Desoxyn.1,2,3 Tolerance is the need for higher doses or more frequent use to produce the wanted effects.1 After a while, those who use Desoxyn may begin to feel and function normally only when the drug is present (dependence).

When a dependent person stops using Desoxyn or reduces the dose, they will experience uncomfortable and potentially dangerous effects called withdrawal symptoms as their body readjusts to the absence of Desoxyn.5,6,7

Desoxyn withdrawal symptoms are the same as other methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms. Severe complications such as agitation, violence, and suicidal thoughts are possible. Depression during withdrawal is also common.5,6,7

Someone who wants to end or reduce their Desoxyn use should consult a medical or addiction professional. Treatment for addiction often begins with a formal detox period followed by individual and/or group counseling in an inpatient, outpatient, or 12-step program.

Desoxyn Withdrawal Symptoms

The Desoxyn withdrawal timeline depends on many factors, such as the dose and the route of administration.
When a person stops taking Desoxyn, it can trigger withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include:5,6,7

  • Sleeping and eating more than usual.
  • Depression.
  • Anxiety.
  • Agitation and irritability.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Mental confusion.
  • Poor memory.
  • Intense dreams.
  • Strong cravings for more stimulants.

Suicidal ideation or attempted violence toward others is possible due to agitation, confusion, and severe depression.7 In some cases, paranoia and hallucinations can occur, which further illustrate the need for professional treatment. 6

How long will Desoxyn withdrawals last?

The typical length of withdrawal can be anywhere from 1-2 weeks. The Desoxyn withdrawal timeline can differ depending on many things, such as how long you’ve been using, how much you’ve been using, your age, and whether you’ve been abusing other drugs. The typical length of a Desoxyn withdrawal can be anywhere from 1-2 weeks.8

Can I detox from Desoxyn at home?

No. Attempting to detox or withdraw from Desoxyn at home is not safe. The person can become depressed, suicidal, or violent. Relapse is also a temptation when withdrawal symptoms become too uncomfortable. Someone who wants to end their use should consult a treatment professional.

How long does Desoxyn Detox Take?

The length of detox is commonly between 1-2 weeks depending on the level of use and other variables.8

Desoxyn Withdrawal Treatment Options

Detoxing in a rehab center reduces the chance that the person will seek more Desoxyn. Desoxyn withdrawal can be managed in a variety of treatment settings, including:4,5,6,7

  • Inpatient/residential centers. Inpatient or residential treatment means the person lives on-site throughout treatment. Inpatient is typically more intensive, with 24-hour care from medical staff in a setting that resembles a hospital. Though similar in terms of round-the-clock supervision, residential settings may appear more like a home, with additional comforts and freedom to move throughout the center.
  • Outpatient centers. Outpatient treatment means a person can return to their home or another off-site living arrangement while attending treatment during the day. This level of care is a suitable option for someone with a good support system and a lower risk of relapse. Treatment can be up to six hours each day (partial hospitalization program, or PHP), several hours a few times weekly (intensive outpatient program or IOP), or as little as 1 hour per week.

Detoxing in a rehabilitation center or hospital can greatly reduce the chance that the person will seek more Desoxyn before the treatment is over. Additionally, treatment professionals can monitor the person’s needs, improve their comfort, and manage any complications that arise.5

If the person detoxing becomes violent or suicidal, medical professionals can also intervene to prevent harm or self-injury.

Learn more about Desoxyn withdrawal treatment and medications.


Does your insurance cover Desoxyn withdrawal treatment?

We can help – check your coverage instantly or text us your questions to find out more.


Detoxing, Addiction Treatment, Rehab, and Recovery

Once detox is complete, someone seeking to recover from Desoxyn addiction should maintain ongoing treatment, since detox alone does little to end long-term substance use.4 Addiction treatment can take place in inpatient/residential or outpatient settings, and it is often augmented by participation in a 12-step program such as Narcotics Anonymous.

Whether set in an outpatient or inpatient center, substance abuse treatment will involve some combination of therapy, including:4

  • Individual therapy – a person in recovery meets one-on-one with a therapist
  • Group therapy – 2 or more group members meet with at least one therapist
  • Family therapy – therapists meet with the recovering user and one or more family members or loved ones
  • Support groups – a group of people with similar addictions provide fellowship and a sense of community

Many inpatient and outpatient programs treat stimulant users. These rehabilitation programs also help recovering users maintain their sobriety by helping them address common problems, such as counterproductive behaviors and boredom. Physician treatment professionals may also prescribe and monitor the use of antidepressants or other appropriate medications to address symptoms such as depression.5

Desoxyn Information at a Glance
Medication Name, Costs Class of Medicine
  • Brand Name: Desoxyn
  • Generic Name: Methamphetamine HC
  • Generic Name Variations: N/A
  • Chemical Name: N-methylamphetamine
  • Type of Drug: Central nervous system (CNS) stimulant
  • Used to Treat Addiction? No
  • Function or Use: used to help treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity 9, 10
Form, Intake and Dosage Interactions and Complications
  • Drug Forms: Tablet
  • Administration Routes: Oral
  • Dose: 5mg per tablet 9
  • Alcohol Interaction: Avoid alcohol while taking Desoxyn.
  • Illicit Drugs: Desoxyn should not be taken with any illicit drugs.
  • Prescription Medications: Consult your doctor before taking Desoxyn with any other prescription medications.
  • Contraindications: hypertension, MAOIs, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, history of drug abuse 9
Effects and Adverse Reactions Substance Abuse
  • Short-Term: insomnia, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, headache, restlessness, loss of appetite, itching 9, 10
  • Long-Term: slowed growth, tolerance, dependence 9
  • Overdose: fever, uncontrollable shaking, vomiting, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, seizures 10
  • Risk of Substance Abuse: Desoxyn has a high risk of substance abuse because it contains methamphetamine. 9
  • Signs of Abuse: taking more frequently than prescribed, using the medication in a way other than prescribed (snorting), neglecting other activities in favor of drug use, cravings to use Desoxyn
Physiological Problem Signs and Symptoms Dependence and Addiction Issues
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: depression, agitation, fatigue, problems sleeping 11
  • Tolerance: A person who takes the drug can develop a tolerance to the appetite suppressant effects within a few weeks. 11
  • Physical Dependence: Physical dependence can occur and lead to withdrawal symptoms when the person stops using. 11
  • Psychological Dependence: Users can develop extreme psychological dependence.11
Legal Schedules and Ratings
  • Controlled Substances Act Rating: Schedule II 11