Patient handout
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
You have been prescribed atomoxetine. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant ADHD medication. It raises norepinephrine in the parts of the brain that manage attention and impulse control. It is not a controlled substance, works around the clock once established, and is often chosen when stimulants are not a good fit, including for people with anxiety or a history of substance use.
How to take it
- Take it once a day, or split morning and late afternoon if it upsets your stomach or makes you sleepy.
- With food if it causes nausea. Swallow the capsule whole; do not open it.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. Do not double up.
- The dose is raised in steps after the first one to two weeks.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: nausea, reduced appetite, and tiredness are the common early effects. Little change in ADHD symptoms yet.
- Week 2 to 4: focus and impulse control often begin to improve.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose. Unlike stimulants, it takes weeks, not hours.
- Once it is working, there is no daily wearing off, which many people value.
Common side effects
Nausea, reduced appetite, dry mouth, tiredness or trouble sleeping, dizziness, constipation, sweating, and a mildly faster heart rate or higher blood pressure. Some adults notice sexual side effects or trouble urinating.
Call the office the same day if
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself, especially early on or after a dose change (particularly under age 25)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper right belly (rare liver injury)
- Chest pain, fainting, or a racing or irregular heartbeat
- Severe agitation, aggression, or seeing or hearing things that are not there
- Rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Atomoxetine can be stopped without a taper, but tell us first so we can plan what comes next.
Good to know
- Tell us about any heart condition, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or liver problems before starting.
- Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist. Some antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and paroxetine, raise atomoxetine levels.
- Give it time. Judging it before four weeks at a full dose is the most common reason it seems not to work.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.