Final answer:
Anorexia is a known side effect of amphetamine, and avoiding alcohol while on a CNS depressant is important due to the risk of increased sedation or respiratory suppression.
Step-by-step explanation:
- A known side effect of the stimulant medication amphetamine is anorexia, which refers to loss of appetite or decreased desire to eat. Stimulants typically increase alertness and energy while decreasing appetite. For this reason, one of the side effects of amphetamine use is anorexia, as opposed to drowsiness, weight gain, or bradycardia, which are not commonly associated with stimulant medications like amphetamines.
- It is important to avoid alcohol while on a CNS (central nervous system) depressant because increased sedation or respiratory suppression can occur if alcohol is used with these medications. CNS depressants can produce sedation, cognitive/memory impairment and in combination with alcohol, these effects can be exacerbated, leading to potential dangers such as significant respiratory depression or even death, particularly when used in excess or with other depressants such as barbiturates, opiates, or benzodiazepines.
- Alcohol itself is a CNS depressant and at higher doses can result in severe side effects such as respiratory depression, coma, or death. Therefore, combining alcohol with prescription CNS depressants can significantly increase the risk of these dangerous side effects.