Strattera - What is it?
Strattera - atomoxetine hydrochloride, is a medication that is available by prescription only. It is used to treat ADHD. This is the first drug for the treatment of ADHD that is a nonstimulant. It has been approved for adults, teens and children.
Who Is the Maker of Strattera?
Eli Lilly and Company is the maker of Strattera.
How Strattera Works
While it hasn't been established how exactly Strattera is able to offer the calming effects, it has been found that this medication works with the brain chemical called norepinephrine. This medication works to inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine. This increases how much of the chemical is available for use by the cells in the brain.
Strattera is unlike other types of ADHD medicines because it is a no stimulant. This means that it is less likely to be abused and the dispensing and prescribing rules are not as strict as with other medications. Prescriptions for Strattera can be phoned or faxed into the pharmacy, which is unlike stimulant prescriptions. It is also easier to get a refill for this medication, as you don't need a new prescription every time you need more.
Is it Effective?
Many studies of Strattera as a way to treat symptoms of ADHD have been done.
Potential Side Effects
As is the case with all medications, there is the potential for side effects, but not everyone taking the drug will notice side effects. It has actually been found that most of those taking the medicine tolerate it quite well. When there are side effects with Strattera, they are most likely minor and either don't need to be treated or are easy to treat by you or your doctor. It is less common to have serious side effects.
Most commonly found side effects include:
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Stomach pain or pain in the upper abdomen
- Insomnia
Strattera - Generic
At this time, there is no generic Strattera that has been licensed to sell.