Abstract: Disclosed herein are the methods of using specific multiple charged cationic compounds, which are derived from polyamines through an aza-Michael addition with an ?,?-unsaturated carbonyl compound, in a clay treatment composition to reduces clay swelling, clay migration, and sludge formation in a subterranean formation in oil and gas operations. The disclosed methods or compositions are found to be more effective than those methods or compositions including commonly used for reducing clay swelling, clay migration, and sludge formation.