Strattera, the brand name for atomoxetine, is a non‑stimulant medication indicated for attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) across age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. It belongs to a class called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRI). By increasing norepinephrine signaling in key brain networks, Strattera helps sharpen attention, reduce impulsive behavior, and temper hyperactivity. For many people who cannot tolerate stimulants—such as methylphenidate or amphetamines—or who have medical or personal reasons to avoid them, atomoxetine provides a clinically validated alternative.
Unlike stimulants, Strattera is not a controlled substance in the United States, has no known abuse potential, and does not typically cause the “on/off” effects some patients associate with short‑acting stimulant products. The therapeutic effect builds gradually. Some individuals notice early improvements within 1 to 2 weeks, but full benefit commonly emerges over 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use. When effective, its 24‑hour coverage can support smoother behavior and steadier focus throughout school, work, and home routines.
Clinicians sometimes favor Strattera in specific circumstances. It is often considered when patients have a history of tics, anxiety, substance use concerns, or sleep disturbances that may complicate stimulant treatment. In addition, parents and adult patients who prefer a once‑daily, non‑controlled medication appreciate atomoxetine’s dosing simplicity and predictable duration. While response varies, evidence supports its ability to improve core ADHD symptoms and executive function domains such as task initiation, organization, and sustained attention.
As with any ADHD medication, Strattera works best as part of a comprehensive care plan that can include behavioral strategies, CBT or skills‑based coaching, school or workplace accommodations, and regular follow‑up. Ongoing communication with your prescriber helps fine‑tune the dose and schedule to balance symptom control with tolerability.
Strattera is taken orally as a capsule and should be swallowed whole with a fluid. Do not crush, chew, split, or open the capsule. The contents can be irritating to mucous membranes; if a capsule breaks and the powder contacts skin, wash the area immediately with soap and water. If it gets into eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Dosing is individualized. For most adults, treatment often begins at 40 mg once daily. After a minimum of several days, clinicians frequently increase to 80 mg per day, either as a single morning dose or divided into morning and late‑afternoon/early‑evening doses. Some adults may benefit from further adjustment up to a typical maximum of 100 mg per day, depending on response and side effects.
For children and adolescents, the dose is based on body weight. A common approach is to start at approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day and increase to a target of about 1.2 mg/kg/day after several days to a few weeks. Those weighing 70 kg (154 lb) or more are often dosed similarly to adults. Because atomoxetine levels can vary with metabolism and concurrent medications, prescribers may titrate more slowly or modify the target dose for certain patients.
Atomoxetine can be taken with or without food. Taking it with a meal or snack may reduce stomach discomfort or nausea, especially at the start of therapy. Many people prefer a morning schedule to minimize potential insomnia, although others do well with split dosing to improve tolerability. Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Do not change your dose or stop abruptly without discussing it with your clinician, even if you start to feel better. If side effects occur, a slower titration, a change in timing, or dietary adjustments may help.
Before initiating Strattera, your healthcare professional will review your medical history and may perform baseline measurements. Because atomoxetine can slightly raise heart rate and blood pressure, it is important to share any history of hypertension, heart disease, fainting, arrhythmias, or structural cardiac abnormalities. Your clinician may check your pulse and blood pressure at baseline and periodically thereafter.
Inform your provider about any history of liver disease or abnormal liver tests. Although rare, atomoxetine has been associated with clinically significant liver injury. Early recognition matters, so you should promptly report symptoms such as dark urine, persistent itching, right‑upper‑quadrant abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Your clinician may order liver function tests if indicated.
Mental health screening is also essential. All ADHD medications, including atomoxetine, should be monitored for potential mood changes. Strattera carries a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thinking in children and adolescents, particularly during the first few months of treatment or during dose changes. Parents and caregivers should watch for new or worsening irritability, agitation, or unusual behavior shifts and contact the prescriber if they occur. Patients with bipolar disorder should be monitored for possible activation of mania or hypomania.
Additional considerations include narrow‑angle glaucoma, urinary hesitancy or retention, and conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, which may be exacerbated by atomoxetine’s noradrenergic effects. Share all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take, as atomoxetine’s metabolism via CYP2D6 introduces potential drug–drug interactions. In children and adolescents, growth should be tracked periodically; small effects on weight or appetite can occur during treatment.
Do not take Strattera if you have a known hypersensitivity to atomoxetine or any component of the formulation. Atomoxetine must not be used in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and you should wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before starting Strattera (and vice versa) due to the risk of serious, potentially life‑threatening interactions.
Strattera is generally avoided in people with severe narrow‑angle glaucoma and in those with a pheochromocytoma or a history suggesting catecholamine‑secreting tumors. Patients with clinically significant cardiovascular disease or severe hepatic impairment require careful risk–benefit assessment and close medical supervision if atomoxetine is considered. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate therapy for you and your baby.
Most individuals tolerate atomoxetine, but side effects can occur, especially during the early phases of treatment or dose changes. Common effects in adults include dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea, stomach discomfort, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, increased sweating, and sexual side effects (such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm). In adolescents and children, decreased appetite, stomach upset, nausea, and fatigue are also common, particularly at initiation.
Because Strattera enhances norepinephrine signaling, modest increases in heart rate and blood pressure can occur. Some patients experience jitteriness or feeling “wired,” while others may feel more tired than usual during the first few weeks. Headache is also reported by some users. These symptoms often diminish as your body adapts; if they persist or interfere with daily life, your prescriber may adjust the dose or timing or suggest supportive strategies.
Less common but notable side effects include urinary hesitancy or retention, sexual dysfunction, skin rash, and mood changes such as irritability or anxiety. Rare events include severe liver injury (hepatotoxicity) signaled by jaundice, dark urine, or upper‑abdominal pain; priapism (painful, prolonged erection); and severe allergic reactions. Seek medical attention immediately for signs of an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, severe rash), unexplained fainting, chest pain, or symptoms of liver problems.
Monitoring for mental health changes is critical, particularly for children and adolescents. Watch for new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, agitation, restlessness, or abrupt behavior changes. Caregivers should maintain open communication and promptly report serious or concerning symptoms to the healthcare professional managing treatment. If there is immediate concern for safety or self‑harm, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.
Atomoxetine is primarily metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2D6. Medications that inhibit CYP2D6 can increase atomoxetine levels, potentially magnifying side effects and necessitating dose adjustments. Notable CYP2D6 inhibitors include certain SSRIs such as fluoxetine and paroxetine, as well as bupropion, quinidine, and terbinafine. If you begin or stop a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, your clinician may modify your atomoxetine dose and monitor more frequently.
Atomoxetine must not be combined with MAOIs, and use within 14 days of an MAOI is contraindicated. Caution is warranted with other drugs that affect blood pressure or heart rate. Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, systemic albuterol, and some stimulants or SNRIs may produce additive cardiovascular effects. If you take antihypertensive medicines, atomoxetine could reduce their effectiveness or complicate blood pressure management; periodic monitoring is prudent.
Always disclose all prescription and nonprescription products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Natural remedies such as St. John’s wort can alter neurotransmitter pathways and enzyme activity and should be reviewed before concurrent use. Alcohol does not have a specific pharmacokinetic interaction with atomoxetine, but drinking can worsen dizziness or sedation in some people and may interfere with adherence or symptom tracking. When in doubt, consult your pharmacist or prescriber before adding new medications.
If you forget your usual dose and remember earlier in the day, take it when you remember. If it is late in the day, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule the next day. Do not double up to make up for a missed capsule, as taking extra can increase side effects such as jitteriness, nausea, or trouble sleeping. If you frequently miss doses, discuss strategies with your clinician—alarms, pill organizers, or moving the dosing time can help.
Symptoms of atomoxetine overdose may include agitation or marked restlessness, very fast heart rate, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, drowsiness, tremor, dilated pupils, or, in severe cases, seizures. If you or someone else may have taken too much Strattera, seek emergency medical care immediately. In the United States, you can also contact Poison Control at 1‑800‑222‑1222 for real‑time guidance while arranging evaluation. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen—timely assessment and supportive care are important.
Store Strattera capsules at room temperature in a dry place, ideally between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Avoid humidity and heat—bathrooms and cars are not ideal storage environments. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. Because the capsule powder can irritate the eyes or skin, avoid opening or crushing capsules.
Dispose of unused or expired medication safely. Do not flush capsules unless a product label or official guidance specifically instructs you to do so. Many communities offer medication take‑back programs through pharmacies or local agencies. If you are unsure how to dispose of Strattera where you live, ask your pharmacist for the safest options.
In the United States, Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription‑only medication. Although it is not a controlled substance, federal and state laws require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional to dispense it. Patients may obtain evaluations through in‑person visits or via legitimate telehealth services that comply with state practice regulations and prescribing rules. Always use licensed, verified pharmacies—such as St. Joseph's Health—to ensure you receive authentic medication and appropriate counseling.
Beware of online sources that advertise atomoxetine without any clinical screening or that bypass U.S. prescription requirements. These outlets may be unsafe, may provide substandard or counterfeit products, and may put you at legal or medical risk. Look for accreditation (for example, programs recognized by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) and confirm that the pharmacy operates within U.S. law.
For individuals seeking structured access pathways, the St. Joseph's Health offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Strattera without a formal prescription. This option is designed to maintain compliance with applicable regulations while providing clinical oversight. Patients should expect to complete standardized health questionnaires and undergo professional review to ensure that atomoxetine is appropriate, safe, and coordinated with existing treatments. Even when a traditional paper prescription is not issued, reputable programs incorporate medical assessment, documentation, and follow‑up consistent with U.S. standards of care.
No matter which route you choose, prioritize safety: verify the legitimacy of services, ensure that a qualified clinician reviews your history and medications, and keep regular follow‑up appointments to monitor benefits, side effects, and dosing. If you have questions about legal access, your state board of pharmacy or your prescriber’s office can help clarify current rules and trustworthy options.
For further clinical information about ADHD, see the National Institute of Mental Health resource: NIMH – ADHD.
Strattera is a non-stimulant medication for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) that increases norepinephrine activity in the brain, which can improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and help control hyperactivity in children, adolescents, and adults.
Some people notice benefits within 1–2 weeks, but full therapeutic effects often take 4–8 weeks. Dose adjustments, consistent daily use, and time are important to see the best response.
Adults typically start at 40 mg daily and increase to 80 mg after at least 3 days; some may go to 100 mg if needed. Children/adolescents are dosed by weight (usually 0.5 mg/kg/day, then titrated up to about 1.2 mg/kg/day). It can be taken once daily or split into morning and late afternoon/evening doses to improve tolerability. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions.
Yes. You can take it with or without food. Taking it with food or splitting the dose can reduce nausea or stomach upset for some people.
Nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, sweating, and sleep changes (insomnia or sleepiness) are common. Some people experience irritability or sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, erectile dysfunction). Many side effects improve over time.
Seek help urgently for signs of liver injury (itching, dark urine, yellowing of skin/eyes, right upper abdominal pain), severe allergic reactions, priapism, or severe mood/behavior changes. There is a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children/adolescents—monitor mood closely, especially during the first months or after dose changes.
It can cause small increases in heart rate and blood pressure. People with hypertension, tachycardia, or certain heart conditions should be monitored. Report palpitations, chest pain, or fainting.
No. Strattera is not a stimulant and is not a controlled substance. It has no known abuse or dependence potential in typical use.
It can cause either drowsiness or insomnia. If it makes you sleepy, some do better taking it in the evening. If it causes insomnia, morning dosing or splitting the dose earlier in the day can help. Avoid caffeine or other stimulants late in the day.
Yes, it is approved for pediatric ADHD. Doses are weight-based, and growth, mood, and cardiovascular status should be monitored regularly.
Take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double up. Try to take it at the same time daily to build a routine.
Most people can stop without tapering, as it is not habit-forming. However, gradual dose reductions can minimize the chance of rebound side effects like irritability or sleep changes. Follow your prescriber’s guidance.
Avoid MAO inhibitors within 14 days. Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion, quinidine) can raise atomoxetine levels—dose adjustments may be needed. Use caution with other drugs that raise blood pressure/heart rate (e.g., decongestants) or cause urinary retention. Always share your full medication and supplement list.
People with severe cardiovascular disorders, pheochromocytoma, narrow-angle glaucoma, or severe liver disease may not be candidates. Use caution in bipolar disorder or a history of urinary retention. A personal risk–benefit discussion with your clinician is essential.
Yes. Combining medication with behavioral therapy, skills training, and environmental supports often yields the best outcomes for ADHD.
It can reduce appetite and lead to modest weight loss, especially early in treatment. Encourage balanced meals, planned snacks, and monitor weight and growth in children.
It is not an anxiety medication, and effects on anxiety vary. Some patients feel less anxious as ADHD symptoms improve; others notice increased jitteriness. If anxiety worsens, tell your clinician—dose changes or adjunctive treatments may help.
Yes. Atomoxetine is the generic and is widely available, which can lower cost and improve insurance coverage.
Track target symptoms (attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity), side effects, sleep, appetite, blood pressure/heart rate, and mood. Follow-up visits after starting or changing dose are important to optimize therapy.
Light to moderate alcohol may be permissible for some adults, but alcohol can worsen dizziness, drowsiness, and judgment, and heavy drinking can increase liver risk. Many people choose to limit or avoid alcohol, especially when starting or adjusting dose. Ask your clinician based on your health and habits.
If you’re still intoxicated or severely hung over, it’s safer to delay until you’re sober and well-hydrated, as combining with alcohol can intensify side effects and stress the liver. Resume your usual schedule when you feel stable, and do not double up. If vomiting or unable to keep meds down, contact your clinician.
Human data are limited. Potential risks must be weighed against the risks of untreated ADHD. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, discuss options with your clinician; dose adjustments, switching therapies, or nonpharmacologic strategies may be considered.
Data in breastfeeding are limited. Small amounts may transfer into milk, and infant monitoring for irritability, poor feeding, or sleep changes is advised if used. Discuss risks and benefits with your pediatrician and obstetric provider.
In many cases, atomoxetine can be continued, but always inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist. They may recommend continuing, adjusting timing, or holding a dose based on your cardiovascular status and the procedure.
Caution is required. Dose adjustments are recommended in hepatic impairment, and you should be counseled on signs of liver injury. Baseline and symptom-triggered liver tests may be advised. Heavy alcohol use further increases risk.
Until you know how it affects your alertness and reaction time, be cautious. Avoid high-risk activities if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unfocused.
Sometimes, under specialist supervision, atomoxetine is combined with stimulants for partial responders. This can increase side-effect risks (elevated heart rate/blood pressure, insomnia, appetite loss), so it requires careful monitoring.
Strattera is a non-stimulant NRI with gradual onset and no abuse potential; Adderall is a stimulant with typically faster, robust symptom control but higher risk of insomnia, appetite suppression, and misuse. Strattera works all day with steady levels; Adderall effects depend on formulation duration. Choice depends on medical history, side-effect tolerance, and treatment goals.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant that often works within hours and has strong evidence for core ADHD symptoms. Strattera takes weeks and suits those who can’t tolerate or don’t want stimulants, or who have tics, anxiety exacerbation from stimulants, or substance-use risk. Side-effect profiles differ: methylphenidate more often reduces appetite and can raise heart rate/BP; atomoxetine may cause GI upset and fatigue.
Vyvanse is a long-acting stimulant with predictable daily coverage and rapid onset; it often provides larger effect sizes but with typical stimulant risks. Strattera is non-stimulant, not habit-forming, and may be preferred for patients with misuse concerns or comorbidities worsened by stimulants. Head-to-head superiority varies by individual response.
Both are non-stimulant NRIs for ADHD. Qelbree may have a somewhat faster onset in some patients and is approved for certain pediatric age groups and adults; side effects include somnolence and GI upset. Strattera has longer market experience, generic availability, and similar efficacy. Choice often hinges on tolerability, cost, and prior response.
Intuniv is an alpha-2A agonist that reduces hyperactivity/impulsivity and helps with emotional dysregulation, often causing sedation and lower blood pressure. Strattera targets attention and impulsivity with an NRI mechanism and can increase BP/HR slightly. Intuniv may be added to stimulants; Strattera is typically used alone or in combination selectively.
Kapvay (clonidine ER) is another alpha-2 agonist, helpful for hyperactivity, aggression, sleep problems, and tics, but more sedating and lowers BP/HR. Strattera is less sedating, with more prominent GI and sexual side effects, and a slower onset. Selection depends on symptom profile, cardiovascular status, and daily functioning needs.
Bupropion (off-label) is a norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitor that can help ADHD, especially with comorbid depression or smoking cessation. It may be more activating and can lower seizure threshold. Strattera has FDA approval for ADHD, is not activating in the same way, and lacks seizure-risk issues at therapeutic doses. Evidence strength and side-effect profiles differ.
Focalin is a stimulant that typically provides quick, strong symptom relief with appetite and sleep trade-offs. Strattera takes longer, isn’t a controlled substance, and may better suit those avoiding stimulants or with certain comorbidities. Individual trial is often needed.
Jornay PM is a methylphenidate designed for evening dosing to cover early mornings. It’s a stimulant with typical stimulant side effects. Strattera is once-daily (morning or evening) with continuous coverage after several weeks, and different side-effect risks. Preference depends on morning symptom needs, tolerability, and misuse risk.
Daytrana offers transdermal stimulant delivery with flexible wear time and potential skin irritation. Strattera is oral and continuous once therapeutic steady state is reached, with no patch-related issues. Consider skin sensitivity, GI tolerance, and adherence.
The active ingredient is the same. Most people do equally well on generic atomoxetine. Rarely, individuals report tolerability differences due to inactive ingredients; if issues arise after a switch, discuss options with your pharmacist and prescriber.
Extended-release amphetamines can last 10–16 hours with rapid onset. Strattera provides all-day coverage once fully effective but requires weeks to build benefit. Amphetamines often have stronger effect sizes with higher risks of insomnia, appetite loss, and misuse. Strattera has lower misuse risk and different side effects.
Strattera can be an alternative to alpha-2 agonists (Intuniv/Kapvay) or Qelbree, or used in combination when carefully monitored for additive side effects (e.g., sedation with alpha-2 agonists, BP/HR changes). The best regimen depends on symptom targets and tolerability.
