Strattera® Generic Name: Atomoxetine AT-oh-mox-e-teen Drug Class: Antidepressant, SNRI

Contents Description General Information Proper Use Missed Dose Storage Side Effects Warnings/Precautions Overdose Drug Interactions Pregnancy/Nursing More Information

Description

This medicine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). This medicine is available in a capsule and is taken orally. Top of page

General Information

This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your healthcare provider.  Top of page

Proper use of this medicine

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Read the patient leaflet that comes with this medicine. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. This medicine is usually taken either as a single dose in the morning or divided into two doses in the morning and late afternoon or early evening; or as directed by your doctor. Top of page

Missed Dose

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses. Top of page

Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Top of page

Possible Side Effects

nausea or vomiting constipation loss of appetite dry mouth drowsiness or lightheadedness trouble sleeping changes in menstrual cycle changes in mood changes in sexual function If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor as soon as possible: difficulty urinating changes in sexual function Unreported side effects are possible, talk to your healthcare provider if any other symptoms occur. Top of page

Warnings/Precautions

This medicine may take several weeks to reach it full effect. Do NOT drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that may be hazardous until you know how this medicine will affect you. Alcoholic beverages can increase the effects of this medicine and should be avoided. This medicine may affect growth in children. Do NOT increase your dose of this medicine without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel that the medicine is not working. This medicine can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in some children and teens. Parents of children taking antidepressants should watch for signs of worsening depression or unusual changes in behavior. Top of page

Overdose

Seek medical attention immediately. U.S. residents can call the national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Top of page

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all other medicines that you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Top of page

Pregnancy/Nursing

If you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is UNKNOWN if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pediatrician to discuss any risks to your baby. Top of page

More Information

Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially children/teenages) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with a doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication, even if the treatment is not for a mental condition. Tell your doctor immediatley if you notice worsening depression, unusual behavior changes, (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes. Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed. Top of page

Copyright 2006 PharmClips, Inc. All rights reserved. www.pharmclips.com

This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This is general information and should not in any event be construed as specific instructions for individual patients. The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein, including any injury and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made in regard to the contents of this material. The reader is advised to check with their health care provider before making any changes in their drug regimen. Last reviewed:   On 8 Aug 2006   By John M. Grohol, Psy.D.