DRUG TITLE

Strattera (Atomoxetine)

APPLICATION

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that is used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

MODE OF APPLICATION

Strattera can be taken by mouth with food to avoid an upset stomach. Swallow the capsules whole without crushing or chewing it. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.

The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

THE MECHANISM OF ACTION

Strattera is a selective inhibitor of the reuptake of norepinephrine. Is not known how Strattera works to treat ADHD. Strattera increases certain chemicals (eg, norepinephrine) in the brain. This may affect attention span and behavior.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose of Strattera then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

STORAGE

Strattera is stored at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 25 degrees C). Keep away from heat, moisture and light. Keep Strattera out of reach of children and away from pets.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

Straterra may cause drowsiness or dizziness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

Sit up or get up slowly in the morning until you know how to deal with these effects.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine) within the last 14 days, you have certain heart problems (e.g., heart defect, heart failure), certain types of irregular heartbeat, severe blood vessel problems, or narrow-angle glaucoma.

Strattera may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in some children or teenagers. The chances of this occurring increases manifold if they suffer from bipolar (manic-depressive) illness. If you notice any symptoms like depressed mood, anxious, restless, or irritable behavior, panic attacks, or any unusual change in mood or behavior occur, then contact your doctor immediately.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

If your doctor has prescribed a potassium supplement to you, then keep taking it according to the prescribed dosage.

may affect your blood sugar level and may make you feel confused, drowsy, or thirsty. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.

Strattera should be used with extreme caution in children below 6 years of age as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Strattera may cause certain lab tests including heart rate, blood pressure, and liver function to be incorrect. Ensure that your lab personnel know that you are taking the drug.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS

Consult your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become frequent:

• constipation, cough, decreased appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, increased sweating, indigestion, nausea, upset stomach, fatigue, vomiting.

Contact your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, shortness of breath, chest tightness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), chest pain, dark urine, decreased sexual ability (eg, impotence, ejaculation problems), loss of consciousness , fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, sore throat, hallucinations, changes of the menstrual cycle, mood changes (eg, agitation, anxiety, depression, irritability, constant crying, unusual sadness), new or worsening behavior changes (eg, aggressiveness , hostility, restlessness), numbness or tingling, weakness sided, pale stools, persistent fatigue, prolonged or painful erection, severe or persistent headache, abdominal pain or tenderness, suicidal thoughts or attempts, sleep problems, problems with urination, unusual vision or speech changes, unusually cold or blue fingers or toes, yellowing skin or eyes.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Strattera should be used only on prescription.
If symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.