Information on Strattera

This article is a general view of Strattera for comparison with other available ADHD medications. I have taken all of the information in the published medical manuals and text books and summarized it for your convince.
I am not a doctor. Talk to a one for any real advice.

The advantage of Strattera over other ADHD medications is that it is a non stimulant medication. That means that it is not addictive and does not cause serious withdrawal effects. Theoretically there exists a pharmacological potential for all adhd drugs to increase the risk of sudden cardiac death. In rare very cases Strattera has caused suicidal thoughts. In extremely rare cases, severe liver injury from which the patients recovered.

Other names:
Atomoxetine, Atomoxetine hydrochloride, Tomoxetin, Attentin, and generics.

Available in:
10, 18, 25, 40 and 60mg capsules.

Why it is prescribed:
To treat ADHD and possibly as a diet drug.

How it works:
The mode of therapeutic action in ADHD is not known. It is a selective norepinephrine (noradrenaline) reuptake inhibitor.
That’s doctor speak for:
This drug is thought to allow the chemicals in our brain that make us feel good, to stay in action longer. When you take this drug it will clear your mind and lessen the symptoms of ADHD.

This drug affects systems in the body in a short term manner. The body will alter itself to accommodate the effects of this drug over time. These changes make the desired effects more potent. It takes several weeks for the drug to really kick in and work well. "In preclinical studies, atomoxetine did not show a behavioral profile or stimulant properties associated with drugs that have abuse liability."

This is complicated, sometimes boring and very important to your safety and health. Speak with a doctor about it. They are the experts.

Strattera Side Effects

Common, speak with your family doctor or prescriber:
Slowed growth rate, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, dry mouth, urinary retention or hesitancy, impotence, fatigue/lethargy, irritability, mood swings, aggression, rash

Less Common, speak with your doctor at your next scheduled visit:
Libido decrease, ejaculation failure, blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache, nausea or vomiting, changes in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability.

Overdose: Go immediately to the emergency room.
Somnolence

Dosage Information

Onset effect:
Usually within 30 to 45 minutes for tablets, and somewhat later for extended release capsules.

Duration:
With proper dosage, 5 hour half life.

Dietary:
Take it with liquid 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Avoid caffeinated beverages like tea, coffee, colas and alcohol.

Storage:
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.

Missed dose:
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearer the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Stopping the Drug:
Take it as prescribed for the full treatment period, even if you begin to feel better before the scheduled end of therapy. The decision to stop taking the drug should be made by your doctor. This ADHD medication may be discontinued without tapering dose.

Prolonged Use:
A rigorous clinical monitoring for suicidal ideation or other indicators of potential for suicidal behavior is advised for patients of all ages.This includes monitoring of agitation-type emotional and behavioral changes, and clinical worsening, including self-harm.

Precautions

Driving hazardous work:
Do not drive or engage in hazardous working to determine how the medicine affects you.

Pregnancy:
Adequate human studies have not been completed. Before taking Strattera tell your doctor if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breast feeding:
Strattera passes into the breast milk caution is advised, consult your doctor for advice.

Interactions

Disease:
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following: advance blood vessel disease, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, severe anxiety, Tourette's syndrome, glaucoma, or a history of drug abuse, if you are going to engage in strenuous exercise. This point really makes you wonder?!?!?!

Is Strattera better than other ADHD medications?