What is Strattera?

Strattera also known as Atomoxetine Hydrochloride is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as part of a total treatment plan, including psychological, social, and other treatments. It may help to increase the ability to pay attention, concentrate, stay focused, and stop fidgeting. It is thought to work by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Take this medication with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 1 to 2 times a day.
• The first dose is usually taken when you wake up in the morning. If a second dose is prescribed, take it as directed by your doctor, usually in the late afternoon/early evening. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia).
• Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules. If the capsule is accidentally opened or broken, avoid contact with the powder and wash away any loose powder as soon as possible with water. If the powder gets in your eyes, flush with plenty of water right away and contact your doctor.
• Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: a certain adrenal problem (pheochromocytoma), bladder or prostate problems, glaucoma, heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat, heart failure, previous heart attack, problems with heart structure), family history of heart problems (such as sudden cardiac death, irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, liver disease, personal/family history of mental/mood disorders (such as bipolar disorder, depression, psychosis, suicidal thoughts), stroke.
• If you are using marijuana.
• If you are breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
• If used for a long time, this drug may affect a child's growth rate, weight, and final adult height. To reduce the risk, the doctor may recommend briefly stopping the medication from time to time. Check the child's weight and height regularly, and consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, constipation, tiredness, loss of appetite/weight loss, dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, or decrease in sexual ability/desire may occur. In women, menstrual cramps or missed/irregular periods may also occur. To lessen the chance of dizziness, get up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
• Raised blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Difficulty urinating, unusually fast/irregular heartbeat, fainting, numbness/tingling.
• Any symptoms of liver damage, including: dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting/loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin.
• Chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, confusion, slurred speech, sudden vision changes.
• Rarely, males (including young boys and teens) may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours while using this medication. Caregivers/parents should also be watchful for this serious side effect in boys. If a painful or prolonged erection occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

 Q: What should I avoid while taking Strattera?

A: Avoid using or handling an open or broken capsule. If the medicine from inside the capsule gets in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water and call your doctor. Strattera may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.