Strattera Side Effects

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Strattera, or atomoxetine, is a stimulant drug produced by Eli Lilly to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults, teenagers, and children over the age of six. It is classified as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, and raises the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. It is typically taken once daily in the morning, or twice daily in the morning and the late afternoon.

While Strattera can be beneficial in ADHD treatment, it does come with side effects ranging from mild to severe. The most common adverse reactions include indigestion, upset stomach, drowsiness, lowered appetite, sexual indifference, sweating, burning sensations, and bowel issues.[1]




Flickr: gloom
Brand name for Atomoxetine HCI[2]
Manufacturer Eli Lilly[2]
Uses Treatment of ADHD[2]
Common side effects Upset stomach, dizziness, problems passing urine
Who should not take Strattera Frequent MAOI users and those with narrow-angle glaucoma[2]
Disclaimer The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician.
 


Contents

Common Strattera Side Effects

The most common Strattera side effects among children and teenagers include decreased appetite, dizziness, upset stomach, nausea and mood swings.[2]

The most common adverse reactions in adults include decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, nausea, constipation, difficulty passing urine, sexual side effects and menstrual cramps.[2]

Less common side effects of Strattera include liver injury, erections that will not go away, heart problems such as chest pain and a reduction in height or weight growth in children.[3]


Strattera Allergic Reactions

Strattera has caused serious allergic reactions among some patients. Danger signs include swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. The manufacturer recommends seeking medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms occur after taking Strattera.[2] Atomoxetine is the active ingredient in Strattera and may cause an allergic reaction, as can inactive ingredients such as pregelatinized starch and dimethicone.[1]

Strattera Precautions and Warnings

  • Children and teens who take Strattera are to be monitored closely for mood changes and suicidal thoughts. According to studies, four out of every 1000 patients experience suicidal thoughts while taking Strattera. This is most likely to happen at the beginning of a treatment program or after a dosage change.[2]
  • Strattera is not recommended for young adults and children who have taken an MAOI in the last 14 days.[2]
  • Strattera may cause liver damage in some patients. Symptoms of liver damage include dark urine, yellowing of skin and flu-like symptoms.[1]
  • Strattera can cause drowsiness and dizziness, making it difficult to perform certain activities, such as driving. Users are cautioned not to drive unless it is clear that the adverse reactions of Strattera will not cause danger.[1]
  • Strattera users may get lightheaded when rising quickly from a reclined postion. This side effect can be eased by arising slowly.[1]
  • Strattera is intended to be part of a full treatment program for ADHD, and is not a singular therapy. Psychological counseling and special education may also be effective in conjunction with this drug.[1]
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those who are thinking of becoming pregnant, are instructed to consult a physician about Strattera use.[1]

Drug Side Effects

Side effects of medicines like Strattera

Strattera FDA Public Health Advisory

In 2005, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert regarding Strattera and increased suicide risk. The government agency advised physicians of a link between Strattera and suicidal thoughts and actions among children and adolescents, and instructed manufacturer Eli Lilly and Company to create a medication guide reflecting this risk.

The advisory followed a string of 11 clinical trials of children with ADD and ADHD, as well as one study of bedwetters. Of the 2,200 participants in the bedwetting study, one child committed suicide.

While the FDA still approves Strattera for children and adults, the alert recommended that these patients be watched for any signs of suicidal tendencies, as well as for worsening ADD or ADHD.[4]


Also See: Strattera Coupons, Eli Lilly Patient Assistance Programs, Kapvay, Adderall XR Coupons, Vyvanse Coupons, Concerta Coupons, Adderall Side Effects, Ritalin Side Effects, Dextrostat Side Effects, Abilify Coupons

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000222/#
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 http://www.strattera.com/Pages/index.aspx
  3. http://www.strattera.com/Pages/index.aspx
  4. http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/2005/ucm108493.htm



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