Atomoxetine (Strattera): What it is and who it helps
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medicine used mainly for ADHD in kids, teens, and adults. Unlike amphetamine or methylphenidate drugs, it works on norepinephrine, not dopamine. That means it can be a better choice if stimulants caused sleep problems, anxiety, or worry about misuse.
Wondering how fast it works? Expect gradual improvement. Some people notice changes in 1–2 weeks, but full benefit can take 4–8 weeks. Talk with your prescriber about realistic timing for you or your child.
Common dosing and how to take it
Doses vary by age, weight, and metabolism. Typical approaches are:
- Children/adolescents: many doctors start around 0.5 mg/kg per day for a few days, then increase toward about 1.2 mg/kg per day. Some sources cap the dose near 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg daily, whichever is lower.
- Adults: common starting doses are 40 mg per day, moving up to 80 mg. The usual maximum is about 100 mg daily for many people.
Take atomoxetine at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. If sleep becomes a problem, taking it in the morning helps. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it's close to the next dose—don’t double up.
Side effects, warnings, and safety tips
Side effects are usually mild but worth watching for: stomach upset, decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, dizziness, or constipation. Kids may slow in weight gain or height; doctors often track growth.
Serious but less common issues include increased heart rate or blood pressure, liver problems (look for dark urine, yellowing skin), and rare mood changes like increased irritability or suicidal thoughts in young people. If you notice sudden mood shifts or suicidal talk, contact a healthcare provider right away.
Atomoxetine is processed by CYP2D6. If you take strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (like some antidepressants) or are a poor metabolizer, your levels can go up and increase side effects. Also avoid combining atomoxetine with MAO inhibitors.
Before starting, share full medical history with your prescriber: heart issues, high blood pressure, liver disease, mental health history, and all medicines and supplements. Your doctor may check blood pressure, heart rate, and, for kids, growth measurements before and during treatment.
Buying tips: atomoxetine requires a prescription. Use a licensed pharmacy and avoid sites that don’t ask for a prescription. If you’re using online pharmacies, check credentials, read reviews, and confirm they require a valid prescription.
Want practical next steps? Ask your clinician what to expect week by week, how they’ll monitor progress, and when to call about side effects. Keep a short symptom log (focus, sleep, appetite, mood) for clinic visits—small notes help decide whether the medication is working or needs adjusting.
