ATOMOXETINE FOR ADHD: What Patients Should Know
Atomoxetine is a prescription medicine for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD. Doctors may give it to children 6 years and older, teens, and adults. ADHD may affect focus, activity level, impulse control, school, work, and daily life. [1]
This guide explains atomoxetine in simple terms. You will learn what it does, how patients usually take it, what side effects to watch for, and when to call your doctor.
This article is for patient education only. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
QUICK PATIENT SUMMARY
What it is
Atomoxetine is a prescription ADHD medicine. It belongs to a medicine group called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. [1]
Who it may help
Doctors may prescribe atomoxetine for ADHD in children 6 years and older, teens, and adults. [1]
How it is taken
Patients usually take atomoxetine once or twice a day. They may take it with or without food. [1]
Important reminder
Use atomoxetine only with a valid prescription. Also, never share it with another person, even if they have similar symptoms. [1]
WHAT IS ATOMOXETINE?
Atomoxetine helps manage ADHD symptoms. It works on brain chemicals involved in behavior and attention. [1]
Unlike stimulant ADHD medicines, atomoxetine is often described as a non-stimulant option. However, it still needs careful medical guidance. Your doctor must check if it suits your symptoms, age, health history, and other medicines.
In addition, medicine is only one part of ADHD care. Some patients may also need routines, behavioral support, school support, workplace adjustments, or regular follow-up. [2]
WHAT IS ATOMOXETINE USED FOR?
Doctors use atomoxetine to help manage ADHD symptoms. These symptoms may include poor focus, hyperactivity, impulsive actions, or difficulty staying organized. [2]
For some people, ADHD affects school or work. For others, it affects social life, emotions, or daily tasks. Because every patient is different, your doctor will decide if atomoxetine fits your treatment plan.
HOW LONG BEFORE ATOMOXETINE WORKS?
Atomoxetine does not always work right away. Some people may notice changes earlier. However, full benefit may take 4 to 8 weeks once the right dose is reached. [2]
Therefore, do not stop early just because you do not feel better right away. Keep taking it as your doctor tells you, unless your doctor gives new instructions.
HOW SHOULD ATOMOXETINE BE TAKEN?
Take atomoxetine exactly as your doctor prescribed.
Patients usually take it once or twice a day. Some take it in the morning. Others take it in the morning and again in the late afternoon or early evening. Your doctor will choose the schedule that fits you best. [1]
You may take atomoxetine with or without food. Also, try to take it at the same time each day. This helps you remember your dose. [1]
For children, teens, and adults over 70 kg, the patient leaflet mentions 40 mg once daily as a usual starting dose. Still, your doctor must decide the correct dose for you. [1]
WHAT IF I MISS A DOSE?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, skip it if it is almost time for your next dose.
Do not take two doses at the same time. Also, do not take more than your total daily dose in 24 hours. [1]
When unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF ATOMOXETINE
Like all medicines, atomoxetine may cause side effects. Not everyone gets them.
Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation, dry mouth, headache, low appetite, sleepiness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping. [2]
Some patients may also notice mood changes, changes in urination, sexual side effects, or changes in heart rate or blood pressure. [2,3]
Call your doctor if side effects bother you, get worse, or do not go away.
WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ATOMOXETINE?
Before taking atomoxetine, tell your doctor about your full health history.
Mention heart disease, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid problems, seizures, glaucoma, prostate problems, urination problems, depression, bipolar disorder, hallucinations, or past thoughts of self-harm. [1]
Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor can explain the possible risks and benefits. [1,2]
CAN ATOMOXETINE INTERACT WITH OTHER MEDICINES?
Yes. Atomoxetine can interact with other medicines.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take. Include vitamins, supplements, herbal products, and over-the-counter medicines.
Atomoxetine should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. The patient leaflet says patients should stop MAOIs at least two weeks before starting atomoxetine. [1]
Other medicines may also interact with atomoxetine. These include some antidepressants, medicines for irregular heartbeat, blood pressure medicines, decongestants, some asthma medicines, diazepam, phenytoin, and medicines that may increase seizure risk. [1]
What should patients and caregivers watch for?
Patients, parents, and caregivers should watch for sudden mood or behavior changes.
Call a doctor right away if you notice new or worse depression, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, sleep problems, irritability, aggression, risky behavior, thoughts of self-harm, or talk of suicide. [1,2]
This is especially important when atomoxetine starts or when the doctor changes the dose.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is atomoxetine a stimulant?
Atomoxetine is commonly described as a non-stimulant ADHD medicine. It works differently from stimulant medicines and should be used only as prescribed.
Can atomoxetine be taken without food?
Yes. Atomoxetine may be taken with or without food. [3]
How long does atomoxetine take to work?
It may take 4 to 8 weeks to get the maximum benefit once the right dose is determined, although some improvements may occur sooner. [7]
Can I stop atomoxetine when I feel better?
Do not stop or change treatment without your doctor’s advice. Atomoxetine helps control ADHD symptoms but does not cure the condition, so it is important to continue taking it as directed. [22]
Is a prescription required for atomoxetine?
Yes. Atomoxetine is a prescription medicine and should be used only under the guidance of a licensed physician.
ATOMOXETINE TABLETS
For patients with a valid prescription, Palmer Wellness Hub provides product information for Atomoxetine 40 mg Tablets | Axepta.
Prescription verification is required before dispensing.
Prescription medicine. Use only as directed by your physician. This page is for patient education and pharmacy reference only.
References
[1] APO-Atomoxetine Consumer Medicine Information. Used for ADHD use, medicine class, dosing, missed-dose guidance, precautions, interactions, monitoring reminders, and proper use.
[2] American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists Medication Fact Sheet: Atomoxetine. Used for ADHD symptom information, non-medication support, time to benefit, pregnancy and breastfeeding reminders, and common side effects.
[3] STRATTERA Consumer Medicine Information. Used for side effects, serious warning signs, driving precautions, and storage instructions.
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