Atomoxetine

Atomoxetine hydrochloride hcl- strattera atomoxetine

Brand Name: Strattera

Drug Class: Antidepressant

Information on Atomoxetine

STRATTERA (atomoxetine HCl) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Atomoxetine HCl is the R(-) isomer as determined by x-ray diffraction. The chemical designation is (-)-N-Methyl-3-phenyl-3-(o-tolyloxy)-propylamine hydrochloride. The molecular formula is C17H21NO·HCl, which corresponds to a molecular weight of 291.82.

Uses of Atomoxetine:

Strattera is used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. Strattera has not been studied in children under 6 years old.

For more information on Strattera (atomoxetine) and sites on Strattera.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How to Take Atomoxetine HCl:

Take this medicine as directed. It can be taken with or without food. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting with your doctor.

Side Effects of Atomoxetine hydrochloride:

Atomoxetine can cause a serious allergic reaction in rare cases. Stop taking Strattera and call your health care provider right away if you get swelling or hives. 

The most common side effects of Atomoxetine in children and adolescents are:

• upset stomach
• decreased appetite
• nausea or vomiting
• dizziness
• tiredness
• mood swings

The most common side effects of Atomoxetine in adults are:

• constipation
• dry mouth
• nausea
• decreased appetite
• dizziness
• problems sleeping
• sexual side effects
• problems urinating
• menstrual cramps

Warnings and precautions for Atomoxetine

• Atomoxetine may make it difficult to urinate.
• Some people may lose weight while taking Atomoxetine. It is not known if growth will be slowed in children who use Atomoxetine for a long time. Height and weight will be watched in children who are taking Atomoxetine.
• Use caution when driving a care or operating heavy machinery until you know how Atomoxetine affects you.
• Tell your health care provider if you:
  • have or had liver problems. You may need a lower dose.
  • have high blood pressure. Strattera can increase blood pressure.
  • have problems with your heart or an irregular heartbeat. Strattera can increase heart rate (pulse).
  • have low blood pressure. Strattera can cause dizziness or fainting in people with low blood pressure.
  • are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
• You should not take Atomoxetine if:
  • you are allergic to atomoxetine or any other ingredients in Strattera.
  • you are taking a medicine called a MAO Inhibitor (MAOI). Do not take Strattera for at least 2 weeks after you stop taking a MAOI. Do not take a MAOI for at least 2 weeks after you stop taking Strattera.
  • you have narrow angle glaucoma (an eye disease).
• Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your health care provider if you take:
  • Albuterol
  • Paxil (paroxetine)
  • Zoloft (sertraline)
  • Prozac or Sarafem (fluoxetine)
  • Quinidine
  • MAOIs (Nardil, Parnate)
  • Medicines that may increase blood pressure

How Atomoxetine Works In Your Brain

Like all SNRIs Strattera (atomoxetine HCl) doesn't make you produce more norepinephrine, rather it makes your neurons soak for a longer period of time in the norepinephrine you already produce.  Norepinephrine is a new player in the ADD/ADHD game. For depression it is one of the big three neurotransmitters, along with serotonin and dopamine.

What to do if you take Overdose of Atomoxetine?

Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center.

What to do if you take Missed Dose of Atomoxetine?

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How to Store Atomoxetine:

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Atomoxetine Strength(s)

5 mg, 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg

For more information on Atomoxetine

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Site last updated: March 4, 2008

Atomoxetine hydrochloride hcl- strattera atomoxetine