Strattera (generic: atomoxetine) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) medicine that can be prescribed for the treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or ADD). It can be used in children aged six and up, adolescents, and adults. Its effects have yet to be studied in children under six. Unlike other drugs prescribed for treating ADHD, Strattera is not a stimulant. This means it doesn’t cause dependence, tolerance, or withdrawal symptoms when treatment stops and is not likely to be abused. SNRIs work to increase the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, improving mood or concentration. Strattera is the only non-stimulant medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ADHD treatment and was the first non-stimulant medication to be approved for treating adults with ADHD. Strattera is also being prescribed off-label to treat depression and anxiety. Dosage Strattera should be taken only in the recommended dosage. It can be taken in single doses or split into morning/evening doses. Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible, but not double-dose. Symptoms of overdosing include unusual behavior, drowsiness or dizziness, stomach problems, or tremors.
Brand Manufacturer: Order – August 28, 2024 @ 10:32 AM
Side Effects: WARNING: Short-term studies in children and adolescents with ADHD receiving Strattera revealed a greater risk of suicidal ideation early during treatment. All pediatric patients being treated with Strattera should be monitored closely for suicidality, clinical worsening, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes. Some of the more common side effects of all SNRIs include: Behavioral changes, such as outbursts of anger Gastro symptoms like nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation Dry mouth or loss of appetite Mood changes Insomnia Dizziness Increased sweating Fluid retention or urination problems Erectile dysfunction in adult males Get medical advice if any of these or other unusual side effects occur. Strattera can cause an allergic reaction. Go immediately to an emergency room if you develop hives, have difficulty breathing, or start to feel swelling on the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Strattera was observed in clinical studies to slow down growth rates in children in the first few months. These were usually compensated for with a growth boost after a few months, bringing the children back to standard height and weight. Consult with a doctor if a child is not growing normally after several months while using this medicine.
Indication: Diagnosis of ADHD is complex and involves doctors, parents, teachers and family members. Healthcare providers use the guidelines in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th edition (DSM-5), to help diagnose ADHD. This diagnostic standard helps ensure that people are appropriately diagnosed and treated for ADHD. Once a diagnosis has been made, doctors will decide on the most appropriate course of action. It usually starts with a low dose and gradually increases over several weeks. It may take two weeks to a month for Strattera to take full effect, and it may take some time to find the correct dose, producing the fewest side effects. Doctors can treat adult patients diagnosed with mood disorders like anxiety and depression with Strattera, with an off-label prescription.
