Strattera (Atomoxetine)
ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder is a mental health disorder that makes it hard for the person diagnosed with it to focus, stay organized, control impulses, and sit still. These characteristics often get in the way of social activities, relationships, school, work, and other aspects of daily life.
Luckily there are medications available to help treat ADHD, increasing the ability to concentrate, pay attention, and refrain from fidgeting.
One of these medications is Strattera (Generic Name: Atomoxetine). This is a therapeutic drug prescribed by doctors or psychologists, changing the life of so many people struggling with this difficult condition.
What is Strattera?
Strattera is a non-habit-forming medication for ADHD. It is non-addictive and there is no possibility for potential abuse. While Strattera may not work as well as stimulants commonly prescribed for this type of disorder, it is very effective, especially when stimulants aren’t right for you.
This product works as an NRI (Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) affecting brain and nerve chemicals that are known for controlling impulse and hyperactivity.
What Does it Do?
Strattera is the brand name for the drug, Atomoxetine. It is used in treatment plans that include social, psychological, and other treatments to lessen the symptoms and negative impacts of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Who is Strattera for?
Strattera has been approved for patient’schildren between the ages of 6-12, adolescents, and adults. There are little to no studies regarding the effects this medication may have on children younger than six, so is therefore not recommended for this age group.
Because stimulants are more likely to help reduce the symptoms of ADHD in most patients, Strattera is a back up for those who can’t take medications such as Ritalin or Adderall.
This group of individuals includes.
- Those prone to addictive behaviors or currently struggling with addiction.
- Parents who are nervous about giving their kids stimulants.
- Those who are not getting benefits from stimulants.
- Those who are not able to tolerate stimulants.
- Patients who shouldn’t use stimulants due to medical conditions such as structural heart defects, glaucoma, or uncontrolled seizures.
Before taking Strattera let your doctor know if you have had,
- Bladder or prostate issues
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- Certain adrenal problems
- Glaucoma
- Family history of heart problems
- Liver disease
- A history of or family history of mental disorders
- Or stroke.
Proper Dosing for Strattera
Like many other medications used to treat ADHD, Strattera’s dosage varies by patient and comes in 10mg, 18mg, 25mg, 40mg, 80mg, and 100mg capsules.
Children and Adolescents weighing more than 70kg should never take more than 1.2mg/kg per a day, typically starting off with the initial dose of 0.2mg/kg and increasing after three days until the proper response is experienced.
Adolescents weighing more than 70kg and adults should start a 40mg dose of the medication, increasing it after three days to a maintenance dose of 80-90mg per day, never exceeding 100mg per day.
Always follow the dose set by your doctor in order to obtain the most benefits from the medication and to avoid potential side effects.
How to Take Strattera
Strattera is an oralmedication that can be taken with or without food. Like most medications, this product should be taken with a glass of water and should never be crushed or chewed. If the medication is for a child who cannot swallow capsules, then a different medication should be prescribed.
Strattera is only effective when taken at the proper dosage. Some people who need higher doses end up not experiencing all of the benefits due to an increase in side effects.
To counteract this issue and get proper treatment on an effective dose, those who need higher doses should split them up throughout the day.
The best time to take Strattera is in the morning. You can also take it in the morning and at night if you’re taking two separate doses.
Common Side Effects of Strattera
No matter what type of medication you take, the body is going to react in one way or another. Like most other medications, there are a few common side effects to watch for, but typically go away on their own.
Common side effects in patients 6-17 include,
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pains
- Decreased appetite
- Drowsy
Common side effects in adult patients include,
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Sexual side effects
- Constipation
- Complications passing urine.
Allergic reaction is not common with Strattera but possible. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction, you should contact your physician right away.
Child Growth Rate and Strattera
Strattera can affect the growth rate and weight of a child. Many doctors will stop Strattera for a short period of time on occasion to avoid this potential risk. It is crucial to keep a close eye on your child’s height and weight while they are taking this medication.
Strattera FAQs
Is Strattera Safe to Take While Pregnant?
There have not been sufficient studies regarding the effects of Strattera on pregnancy or unborn fetuses. It is recommended that pregnant woman not take this drug unless the benefits outweigh the negative possibilities.
Breastfeeding mothers should also avoid taking this medication due to a lack of information regarding the possible effects on a newborn child.
Is Strattera Habit Forming?
Strattera is not a habit-forming medication and is not a risk to those suffering from addiction.
Are There Side Effects Associated with Stopping Strattera?
Studies show that there are no known withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing the use of Strattera. It is safe to stop taking this medication without tapering.
Can You Take Strattera with Antidepressants?
It is not recommended that any patient takes Strattera with an anti-depressant like Prozac or MAOI’s. The combination of these products can increase the possibility of side effects and their severity.
Always consult a physician before starting any new medications to ensure there is no harmful interactions possible.
Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Strattera?
Doctors often advice patients to avoid alcohol while taking Strattera. This combination will increase and even amplify the side effects of the medication and can also decrease the effectiveness of it.