How Does Strattera (Atomoxetine) Work for ADHD?

Strattera (atomoxetine) is an oral medication that healthcare providers may prescribe for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This behavioral disorder can cause hyperactivity, inattentiveness, or impulsivity. ADHD treatments include behavioral therapy and medications.

Strattera can be an effective treatment for ADHD, but it might have side effects like dry mouth, mood changes, and appetite loss. Read on to learn more about Strattera, including what it's used for and how it affects the body.

What Is Strattera?

Strattera may be prescribed as part of a person's ADHD treatment regimen. Most people take capsules by mouth once or twice per day. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Strattera for ADHD symptoms in adults and children older than 6 in 2002 and then approved the first generic versions of the drug in 2017.

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). SNRIs treat ADHD and other mental health conditions by increasing norepinephrine in the brain. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter and hormone that helps you stay alert and maintain control in high-stress situations. People with ADHD have been found to have low levels of norepinephrine on average.

Benefits

Research has found that Strattera is safe and effective for most people with ADHD. Strattera may reduce ADHD symptoms by about 25% within less than one month.

Strattera can also be helpful for people who have ADHD and common co-occurring mental health conditions like:

• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Strattera has also been found to improve quality of life and decrease emotional instability among both children and adults with ADHD. A review published in 2015 found that around 50% of adults with ADHD continued to experience these positive effects six months after they stopped taking the drug.

Side Effects of Strattera

Most of the reported side effects were mild in clinical trials for Strattera. Less common side effects may include high blood pressure, liver problems, and a racing heart.

Some of the most common Strattera side effects for adults include:

• Constipation
• Difficulty urinating
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Lowered appetite
• Sexual side effects, such as erectile dysfunction

Children may also experience nausea and a low appetite. Other side effects in children include dizziness, moodiness, and tiredness.

Non-Stimulants vs. Stimulants for ADHD

The most prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) treat ADHD symptoms by increasing central nervous system activity.

Strattera is a non-stimulant, which means it improves alertness and focus without speeding up your brain activity. It's not the only non-stimulant available. Tenex (guanfacine) is another common non-stimulant used to treat ADHD.

Many people prefer taking stimulants for ADHD. They work more quickly, often within an hour, and are somewhat more effective in managing symptoms. The effects of non-stimulants, in contrast, last longer—up to 24 hours.

ADHD stimulants come with several possible side effects, such as high blood pressure and tachycardia (fast heart rate). People with pre-existing heart conditions may choose to take non-stimulant medications to reduce their risk of cardiovascular problems.

Adderall and other stimulants are also frequently misused. People with ADHD who have a history of substance use disorder often take non-stimulant medications to avoid the possibility of addiction or overdose.

Risks

Let a healthcare provider know if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking Strattera. Talk to them about any other medications you're taking. A healthcare provider will most likely tell you not to take Strattera, for example, if you're taking any monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)—such as Marplan (isocarboxazid) or Nardil (phenelzine).

Strattera may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts among adolescents and children taking it, but it's rare. Those who start the medication should be closely monitored. Seek medical attention right away if you, your child, or someone you know experiences thoughts of suicide while taking Strattera.

A Quick Review

It can be difficult to deal with the symptoms of ADHD, but there are many effective treatments available. Strattera, a non-stimulant medication, is safe and effective overall for both children and adults with ADHD.

Strattera can cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, sexual side effects, and reduced appetite. Talk to a healthcare provider if you're interested in trying Strattera to manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your quality of life.