Examples
methamphetamine (L, legal; and D, illicit), MDMA (ecstasy), MDA, methylphenidate
Routes of Use
ingestion, intranasal, injection, inhalation
Observed Symptoms
Adults: tachycardia, hypertension, hyperactivity, pressured speech, diaphoresis, hyperthermia, psychosis, mydriasis, seizures
Prenatal Exposure
Prenatal exposure to stimulants includes risks for preterm labor, intrauterine growth restriction, small for gestational age, low birth weight, poor fetal growth, and miscarriage.
Breastfeeding
There are some studies that demonstrate methamphetamine does transfer into breastmilk, most becomes undetectable after an average of 72 hours from last use. Methamphetamine is contraindicated during breastfeeding. Prescribed medications may be considered safe, consult a physician to clarify unique circumstances.
methamphetamine (L, legal; and D, illicit), MDMA (ecstasy), MDA, methylphenidate
Routes of Use
ingestion, intranasal, injection, inhalation
Observed Symptoms
Adults: tachycardia, hypertension, hyperactivity, pressured speech, diaphoresis, hyperthermia, psychosis, mydriasis, seizures
- Withdrawal: also described as “amphetamine washout” with symptoms of fatigue, lethargy, hyperinsomnia, and mood disturbance and dysphoria after significant use. May mimic severe depression.
- Child: similar
Prenatal Exposure
Prenatal exposure to stimulants includes risks for preterm labor, intrauterine growth restriction, small for gestational age, low birth weight, poor fetal growth, and miscarriage.
Breastfeeding
There are some studies that demonstrate methamphetamine does transfer into breastmilk, most becomes undetectable after an average of 72 hours from last use. Methamphetamine is contraindicated during breastfeeding. Prescribed medications may be considered safe, consult a physician to clarify unique circumstances.
Methamphetamines are used with concerning paraphernalia and hazardous chemicals that leave children vulnerable to the possibility of harmful exposures.
If pipes or needles are left on a coffee table that is accessible to a child, this could leave the child vulnerable to the possibility of being stuck with a used hypodermic needle or sucking on a pipe with methamphetamine residue.
Methamphetamines can be smoked and if done in the presence of children can lead to other health concerns. If you are concerned that a child may have been exposed to the use or production of methamphetamines, it is best practice to have them evaluated by a qualified medical provider to ensure there are no health complications.
Urine
Most amphetamines can be detected for up to 3 days after acute use. Some testing assays may separate amphetamine, methamphetamine and MDMA, as they can all cross react and may also detect various decongestants, ADHD medications, and weight loss supplements. A confirmatory test is recommended if urine screen is positive, especially with methamphetamine.
Blood
Blood tests are not typical, as clinical examination and observation, along with urine tests are sufficient for intoxication and/or exposure. Specific amphetamine concentrations can be obtained if the situation is unclear.
Meconium
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for maternal use.
Umbilical Cord
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for maternal use.
Hair
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for exposure.
Most amphetamines can be detected for up to 3 days after acute use. Some testing assays may separate amphetamine, methamphetamine and MDMA, as they can all cross react and may also detect various decongestants, ADHD medications, and weight loss supplements. A confirmatory test is recommended if urine screen is positive, especially with methamphetamine.
Blood
Blood tests are not typical, as clinical examination and observation, along with urine tests are sufficient for intoxication and/or exposure. Specific amphetamine concentrations can be obtained if the situation is unclear.
Meconium
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for maternal use.
Umbilical Cord
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for maternal use.
Hair
Assays for amphetamine and methamphetamine can be tested to evaluate for exposure.
