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Strattera
Strattera is a medication licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The prescription medicine produces a calming effect by affecting a chemical in the brain known as norepinephrine. Although most people tolerate Strattera well, side effects can occur, such as nausea, dry mouth, and insomnia.
Strattera® (atomoxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It was the first nonstimulant approved to treat ADHD. The medicine is approved for use in children, teenagers, and adults.
(Click Strattera Uses for more information on uses of this medication, including possible off-label uses.)
It is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company.
It is not known exactly how Strattera produces a calming effect. It is known, however, that the medicine affects a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which means that it increases the level of norepinephrine that can be used by brain cells.
Unlike other ADHD medications, Strattera is not a stimulant and is not likely to be abused. Also, because it is not a controlled substance, the rules for prescribing and dispensing it are much less strict. Unlike prescriptions for stimulants, Strattera prescriptions can be faxed or phoned to your pharmacy and can be refilled without getting a new prescription each time (if your healthcare provider approves).
There have been several studies looking at using Strattera for the treatment of ADHD symptoms. Some of the results of these ADHD research studies are included below:
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD