Evekeo
(amphetamine sulfate)
Full Prescribing Information | DailyMed Drug Information |
Forms/Strengths
- Tablets: 5 mg, 10 mg
Dosing
- Age: ≥ 3 y/o
- Onset: ~ 30-60 minutes
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Considerations: Take the first dose on awakening. Additional doses may be given at intervals of 4-6 hours.
- Initial Dose:
- 3-5 y/o: 2.5 mg daily
- 6+ y/o: 5 mg once or twice daily
- Titration:
- 3-5 y/o: 2.5 mg weekly
- 6+ y/o: 5 mg weekly
- Max Dose: 40 mg/day
Quick Facts
- Increases synaptic dopamine and norepinephrine by enhancing presynaptic release
- Improves focus, attention, and impulse control
- Immediate-release formulation for rapid onset
- Unique racemic amphetamine sulfate formulation
- Common side effects: decreased appetite, insomnia, increased blood pressure, headache
Indications
- ADHD (ICD-10: F90.0)
- Narcolepsy: G47.419
- Exogenous Obesity: E66.9
Off-Label Uses
- N/A
How to Take
- Take once or twice daily, as directed, with the first dose in the morning.
- Can be taken with or without food; high-fat meals may delay absorption.
- Swallow tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew.
- If using the oral suspension, shake well before each use and measure with an appropriate dosing device.
- Avoid taking late in the day to prevent insomnia.
Side Effects
- Insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, potential for psychotic or manic symptoms, peripheral vasculopathy.
Monitoring / Labs
- Cardiovascular: Baseline and routine monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure.
- Growth in Pediatrics: Regular monitoring of height and weight to detect growth suppression.
- Psychiatric Symptoms: Observe for mood changes, anxiety, or psychosis.
- Abuse Potential: Monitor for misuse or diversion.
Education
-
When to Call the Doctor:
- Severe mood changes, aggression, or suicidal thoughts.
- Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath (cardiovascular concerns).
- Uncontrolled movements, tics, or worsening anxiety.
- Numbness, coldness, or color changes in fingers or toes (circulatory issues).
- Unexplained weight loss or delayed growth in pediatric patients.
-
Safety Tips:
- Monitor blood pressure and heart rate, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk.
- Use caution in patients with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or psychosis, as symptoms may worsen.
- Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, which may amplify side effects.
- Ensure adequate hydration and nutrition, as appetite suppression is common.
- Tapering may be required if discontinuing after long-term use.
-
Parent Tips for Pediatric Patients:
- Encourage a nutrient-dense diet to counteract appetite suppression.
- Administer in the morning before school for optimal effect.
- Monitor school performance and behavioral changes.
- Observe for sleep disturbances; adjust timing if necessary.
- Communicate regularly with teachers and caregivers about medication effects.
Additional Information
-
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to amphetamines or formulation components.
- Use within 14 days of MAOI therapy (risk of hypertensive crisis).
- Symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate-to-severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma.
- History of substance use disorder, unless benefits outweigh risks.
-
Pregnancy:
- Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
- May cause neonatal withdrawal symptoms or low birth weight.
-
Lactation:
- Excreted in breast milk; not recommended due to potential infant exposure.
-
Drug Interactions:
- Serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) increase serotonin syndrome risk.
- Acidifying agents (e.g., ascorbic acid) may reduce drug absorption.
- Alkalinizing agents (e.g., sodium bicarbonate) may increase amphetamine levels.
- May potentiate hypertensive effects of certain medications (e.g., decongestants, beta-agonists).