Strattera (Atomoxetine)

Description

Strattera is involved in the inhibition of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. The main component in this medication is atomoxetine.

 

 

 

Uses

 

Strattera helps in controlling the symptoms associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The three main disorders associated with ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and increased impulsivity. Strattera is concerned with increasing the levels of attention in individuals diagnosed with ADHD. It is theorized that lowered levels of norepinephrine causes attention impairments in individuals. Strattera prevents the norepinephrine in the brain from being reabsorbed. This raises the level of norepinephrine present in the brain. This helps people to focus better and reduces the inattention symptoms of ADHD. It can also reduce the hyperactivity that is also associated with the disorder.

 

This medication works best when it is combined with a proper treatment plan. This includes the psychological and social aspects of the individual as well.

 

Contact your doctor to discover if there are other benefits to using this medication.

 

Dosage

 

You should always follow the instruction on the prescription provided to you by your physician. You should not take Strattera in doses that are smaller or larger than you have been instructed.

 

This medication should be consumed orally.

 

For children and teenagers that weigh below 70 kg, the initial dose of Strattera should be 0.5 mg per kg of body weight. This can later be increased to 1.2 mg per kg of body weight. This can be taken as one dose or be divided into two doses.

 

For adults or individuals over the weight of 70 kg, the recommended dose is 80 mg. This can be taken as one dose or as two, equal doses.

 

You should not take more 100 mg of this medication in one day.

 

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together.

 

In the event of an overdose, contact your local emergency medical services.

 

Side Effects

 

Some of the symptoms that you may experience when taking Strattera are:

 

 Unusual irritation of the skin
 Erratic heartbeat
 Itching
 Lumps on the face, limbs, and genitalia
 Inflammation and redness of the skin

 

Some of the rare adverse effects that you may experience when taking this medication are:

 

 Seizures
 Loss of consciousness
 Inability to control bladder
 Rapid contractions of limbs
 Discomfort in the pelvis in men
 Discomfort in the abdomen
 Yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes

 

If you experience any of these adverse effects, contact your doctor immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and have been prescribed Strattera.

 

 Do not take this medication if you have been diagnosed with glaucoma.

 

 It is also not recommended for individuals who have heart problems or have been diagnosed with elevated blood pressure.

 

 Adolescents who have been prescribed Strattera have reported an increase in suicidal thoughts. The psychological well being of those taking this medication should be monitored.

 

 Do not take Strattera if you have consumed any drugs contain MAO inhibitors in the last two weeks.