Methamphetamine hydrochloride is a cerebral stimulant that is chemically related to amphetamine. It stimulates the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, and is therefore used for short-term treatment of attention deficit disorder, narcolepsy, epilepsy, and exogenous obesity.
It is contraindicated for patients with hyperthyroidism, hypertension, and glaucoma in addition to those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors — deaths have been connected to the combination of these two drugs — and those who are pregnant. Common side effects are hyperactivity, insomnia, restlessness, talkativeness, palpitations, and tachycardia whilst the major life-threatening side effect is circulatory collapse.