Question 1

What is Strattera?

Accepted Answer

Strattera belongs to a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, which is a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that helps transmit messages between nerve cells and supports cognitive function.

This medication functions by altering the balance of specific neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. It targets chemical pathways to help manage cognitive processes and support the regulation of focus.

Question 2

What is Strattera used for?

Accepted Answer

Strattera is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder .

Question 3

How does Strattera work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Unlike many other medications used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Strattera is not a stimulant.

The medication works by affecting norepinephrine, a natural chemical in the brain that helps regulate attention, impulsivity, and activity levels. It specifically blocks the norepinephrine transporter, which prevents the brain's nerve cells from reabsorbing the chemical too quickly. This results in an increased amount of norepinephrine available to send messages between nerve cells.

While the precise way this improves ADHD symptoms is not fully understood, it is believed that increasing norepinephrine levels helps to:

Improve focus and the ability to stay on task.

Decrease restless or hyperactive behavior.

Help control impulsive actions.

Because of its specific mechanism, the effects of Strattera typically develop gradually over several weeks of regular use, rather than providing the immediate response often seen with stimulant medications.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Strattera?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Strattera is atomoxetine .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Strattera?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Strattera may include:

dry mouth

nausea

decreased appetite

and others

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Strattera?

Accepted Answer

Strattera belongs to the norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Strattera and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

Strattera comes as a capsule to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day in the morning or twice a day, with doses split between the morning and late afternoon or early evening. You can take this medication with or without food.

Administration Instructions

Swallow capsules whole: Do not open, crush, or chew the capsules. The powder inside the medication can be an irritant to the eyes and skin.

Handling precautions: If a capsule is accidentally broken or opened, wash any powder off your skin immediately with water. If the powder gets into your eyes, rinse them with water right away and contact a healthcare provider.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take more than your prescribed total daily amount in a 24-hour period.

Question 8

Is Strattera safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Strattera in pregnant women. Research in animals has shown some adverse effects on fetal development when the drug was administered at high doses. Because human data is limited, Strattera should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether atomoxetine, the active ingredient in Strattera, is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Strattera is administered to a nursing woman. Healthcare providers should be consulted to weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the potential risks of infant exposure to the medication.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They can help determine the safest course of action for managing ADHD symptoms during this time.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Strattera come in?

Accepted Answer

Strattera is supplied as a capsule for oral use. The capsules are designed to be swallowed whole and should not be opened, crushed, or chewed.

Oral capsule

The capsules are produced in various color combinations to identify different options. If a capsule is accidentally broken or opened, the powder inside should not be touched or allowed to come into contact with the eyes, as it can cause irritation.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Strattera?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Strattera (atomoxetine) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is indicated for use in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older, adolescents, and adults.

Boxed Warning

The FDA requires a boxed warning for Strattera because clinical trials showed an increased risk of suicidal ideation (thoughts of suicide) in children and adolescents. Healthcare providers and caregivers should closely monitor patients for any unusual changes in behavior, clinical worsening, or suicidal tendencies, especially during the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed.

Safety Communications and Warnings

Liver Injury: The FDA has issued warnings regarding the potential for severe liver injury. Patients should seek medical attention if they develop signs of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or unexplained flu-like symptoms.

Cardiovascular Risks: Strattera can increase blood pressure and heart rate. It should be used with caution in patients with known heart defects, heart disease, or high blood pressure, as serious cardiovascular events have been reported.

Psychiatric Symptoms: The FDA warns that Strattera may cause treatment-emergent psychotic or manic symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania, in children and adolescents without a prior history of such conditions.

Regulatory Classification

Unlike many other medications used to treat ADHD, Strattera is not classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It is a non-stimulant medication and has not shown a potential for abuse or dependence in clinical trials.

Question 11

What should I know about Strattera and withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Stopping Strattera

Unlike many other medications used to treat ADHD, Strattera is not a stimulant and is not a controlled substance. It is not known to cause physical dependence, and patients do not typically experience a withdrawal syndrome or a physical "crash" when they stop taking it.

Managing Symptoms

While there is no specific withdrawal process required for safety, you should still consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing the medication. Considerations for stopping include:

Return of ADHD symptoms: The most common effect of stopping Strattera is the return of original ADHD symptoms, such as inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.

Medical supervision: Healthcare providers generally recommend that you continue taking the medication even if you feel well. If you decide to stop, your doctor can help monitor your symptoms and discuss alternative treatment options.

Tapering: Although not always medically necessary to prevent physical illness, some doctors may suggest gradually reducing the dose to see how your symptoms respond as the medication levels decrease.

Strattera

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Withdrawal Information

FAQ

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