Also, drugs such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine can decrease elimination of Strattera, which can lead to side effects. Studies were also conducted to determine how long Strattera continues to be effective after a patient discontinues use. Some people may be at a greater risk of adverse effects from Strattera and should not take the drug. Strattera is contraindicated for people with liver or kidney problems, diabetes, a history of heart disease or seizures and people who take certain medications. Talk to your doctor if you or your child experience any serious side effects, including difficulty urinating, fainting, numbness, tingling, an unusually fast or irregular heartbeat or suicidal thoughts. In an emergency, call 988 to speak to counselors via the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
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Always verify the correct medication name with a healthcare provider to avoid any misunderstandings. On the other hand, stimulants often work more quickly and may be more effective for some individuals, particularly those with hyperactive symptoms. Let a healthcare provider know if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking Strattera. 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). Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) treat ADHD symptoms by increasing central nervous system activity.
- On the other hand, stimulants often work more quickly and may be more effective for some individuals, particularly those with hyperactive symptoms.
- You can use it to discuss medication options with your child’s doctor.
- Strattera, known generically as atomoxetine, is a non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD.
- Talk to a healthcare provider if you’re interested in trying Strattera to manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
Below we outline the differences between stimulant and non-stimulant medications. While many may be familiar with central nervous system (CNS) stimulant medications to treat ADHD, such as Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin, and Vyvanse, they may not be the best fit for everyone. To better understand how ADHD medication works, learn more about how ADHD affects the brain. Use our ADHD medication log to help find the dosage that works best for your child. And know the signs that your child’s ADHD medication might need fine-tuning.
In general, studies have shown that Strattera can be effective for both age groups, but the response may differ. Adults often report improvements in focus and productivity, while children may show enhanced academic performance and better behavior management. A Comprehensive Guide to Its Effectiveness for ADHD explores this topic in greater detail, providing insights into the medication’s efficacy across different age groups and ADHD presentations. 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.
Taking atomoxetine with food can help avoid nausea and stomachaches. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a non-stimulant approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD. It is in the class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
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- Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a non-stimulant approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD.
- This non-stimulant medication also has some anti-depressive effects.
- Keep in mind that you or your child may need a combination of medication, skills training, and behavioral therapies for the most effective ADHD treatment.
- The recommended dosage of Strattera varies depending on the patient’s age, weight, and individual response to the medication.
- For millions of individuals grappling with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), finding the right treatment can be a journey fraught with trial and error.
- Although atomoxetine is only FDA-approved for treating ADHD, it is sometimes used off-label to treat adult patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Some rare but serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include liver problems, suicidal thoughts (particularly in young adults), and cardiovascular issues. Strattera can be taken once daily, usually in the morning, or divided into two doses (morning and late afternoon/early evening). Consistency in timing is key to maintaining steady blood levels of the medication and ensuring optimal effectiveness.
To address ADHD effectively, understanding stimulant and non-stimulant medications is crucial. Today, we’ll focus on Strattera (generic atomoxetine), a non-stimulant medication for ADHD. Strattera has been shown to work as well as stimulant drugs, such as Ritalin (methylphennidate), in reducing ADHD related symptoms in children and adolescents. Atomoxetine is now considered an option for first-line therapy for ADHD, and is the first non-stimulant to fall into the first-line category.
Non-Stimulant Medications Available for ADHD Treatment
Your consent to text messaging is not required for a case review and you may opt out of text messages at any time by texting STOP. Kenneth S. Fill is a clinical pharmacist specialist who helps people manage chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Strattera is one of many drugs used to treat ADHD, which is an integral part of a total treatment plan for ADHD. Medical professionals recommend Strattera as an integral part of a total treatment program for ADHD. Additional recommendations for the treatment of ADHD include psychological therapy, social support and education.
A possible side effect of Strattera is urinary retention, which can actually be an advantage for children who have enuresis (problems with bedwetting). strattera non stimulant If you’ve been taking Strattera for some time and have concerns about whether it’s working for you, talk with your doctor. Extended-release pills last six to 12 hours — enough to cover the school day. Mastin is affiliated with the United Methodist Church where she serves many roles and sits on the board.
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Strattera is usually taken once daily in the morning or divided into two doses (morning and late afternoon/early evening). It’s important to take the medication consistently and at the same time each day to maintain steady blood levels and optimize its effectiveness. There are several precautions and contraindications to consider when using Strattera. The medication should not be used in individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma, as it can increase intraocular pressure. Caution is also advised in patients with a history of liver problems, as Strattera is metabolized in the liver. Additionally, Strattera should not be used in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of serious drug interactions.
Strattera is thought to work by increasing the level of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. Having more norepinephrine in the brain may help improve attention and focus in people with ADHD. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In the drug’s studies, Strattera was shown to be effective for ADHD at 6, 8, or 9 weeks. Seth Eappen, MD, is a board-certified adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist. Dr. Eappen completed medical school at the University of Illinois at Chicago and a residency at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
To manage these effects, patients are often advised to take Strattera with food to reduce nausea, stay well-hydrated, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Additionally, implementing organizational strategies, such as using planners or digital tools to manage tasks and schedules, can help individuals with ADHD maximize the benefits of Strattera treatment. Creating a structured environment and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can further support the medication’s effects on attention and executive function.