7.2 Toxicity
7.2.1 Human data
7.2.1.1 Adults
The toxic dose varies considerably
due to individual variations and the
development of tolerance. Fatalities have
been reported following ingestion of doses as
low as 1.3 mg/kg, while tolerance has been
developed to 1,000 mg at a time and up to 5 g
in a day.
7.2.1.2 Children
Children appear to be more
susceptible than adults and are less likely
to have developed tolerance.
7.2.2 Relevant animal data
Adult monkeys have an LD50 of 15 to 20 mg/kg,
whereas for young monkeys the LD50 is only 5 mg/kg.
7.2.3 Relevant in vitro data
Not relevant
7.3 Carcinogenicity
To be completed
7.4 Teratogenicity
The use of amphetamine for medical indications does not
pose a significant risk to the fetus for congenital anomalies
(Briggs, 1990). Amphetamines generally do not appear to be
human teratogens. Mild withdrawal symptoms may be observed in
the newborn, but the few studies of infant follow-up have not
shown long-term sequelae, although more studies of this
nature are needed.
Illicit maternal use or abuse of amphetamine presents a
significant risk to the foetus and newborn, including
intrauterine growth retardation, premature delivery and the
potential for increased maternal, fetal and neonatal
morbidity.
These poor outcomes are probably multifactorial in origin,
involving multiple drug use, life-styles and poor maternal
health. However, cerebral injuries occurring in newborns
exposed in utero appear to be directly related to the
vasoconstrictive properties of amphetamines. Ericksson et al.
(1989) followed 65 children whose mothers were addicted to
amphetamine during pregnancy, at least during the first
trimester. Intelligence, psychological function, growth, and
physical health were all within the normal range at eight
years, but those children exposed throughout pregnancy tended
to be more aggressive.
7.5 Mutagenicity
No relevant data
