Quick Facts
Generic NameAtomoxetine
Brand NameStrattera
Drug ClassNon-Stimulant
FDA Approved2002
Starting Dose40mg/day
Typical Range40–100mg/day
Max Dose100mg/day
Half-Life5 hours (22 hours in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers)
MetabolismCYP2D6 (major)
Generic Available2017
What Is Strattera?
Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (Non-Stimulant) prescribed for adhd, adhd with co-occurring anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions. First non-stimulant ADHD medication. Not a controlled substance — no abuse potential. Takes 4–6 weeks for full effect (unlike stimulants' immediate onset). 24-hour coverage. Good for ADHD + anxiety comorbidity. CYP2D6 polymorphism significantly affects metabolism.
At Psychiatry Telemed, atomoxetine is prescribed and monitored by board-certified psychiatrists who understand the nuances of Non-Stimulant pharmacology — selecting the right dose, managing side effects, monitoring drug interactions, and optimizing your treatment through consistent monthly medication management appointments.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) — Non-Stimulant medication for psychiatric care
ManufacturerEli Lilly
How Strattera Affects Neurotransmitters
How Strattera Works
Atomoxetine selectively inhibits norepinephrine reuptake in the prefrontal cortex, increasing norepinephrine availability in attention-regulating brain regions. Unlike stimulants, it has no significant dopaminergic activity in the nucleus accumbens (reward center), explaining its lack of abuse potential.
Efficacy: Strattera vs. Comparators
Efficacy Comparison
Response & remission rates vs. comparators (Cipriani et al. meta-analysis)
Data from published meta-analyses. Individual response may vary.
Conditions Treated with Strattera
ADHD
FDA-approved for ADHD in children (6+) and adults. Non-stimulant, non-controlled.
Learn About ADHDADHD with Co-occurring Anxiety
Particularly useful when ADHD co-occurs with anxiety (stimulants may worsen anxiety).
Learn About ADHD with Co-occurring AnxietyConsidering Strattera?
Board-certified psychiatrists can determine if atomoxetine is right for you.
Dosage Information
| Indication | Starting Dose | Typical Range | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADHD | 40mg/day | 40–100mg/day | 100mg/day |
| ADHD with Co-occurring Anxiety | 40mg/day | 40–100mg/day | 100mg/day |
Brain Regions Targeted by Strattera
Side Effects
Like all medications, atomoxetine has potential side effects. Most are mild, occur early in treatment, and resolve within 1–2 weeks. Your psychiatrist monitors at every appointment.
Common Side Effects
NauseaDecreased AppetiteHeadacheDry MouthInsomniaAbdominal Pain
Less Common
ConstipationDizzinessSexual DysfunctionUrinary HesitancyMood Swings
Serious (Seek Immediate Help)
Suicidal Ideation (children)Hepatotoxicity (rare)Severe Allergic ReactionCardiovascular Effects
Side Effect Profile: Strattera vs. Class Average
Side Effect Profile
Incidence rates from FDA prescribing information vs. class average
Percentages from clinical trial data. Actual experience may differ.
⚠️ FDA Black Box Warning
Increased risk of suicidal ideation in children and adolescents. Monitor closely during initial treatment.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
MAOIs (contraindicated), CYP2D6 inhibitors (fluoxetine, paroxetine — increase atomoxetine levels significantly)
CYP Metabolism
Substrate of CYP2D6. Poor CYP2D6 metabolizers (7% of Caucasians) have dramatically higher blood levels and longer half-life. CYP2D6 inhibitors require dose reduction.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol during atomoxetine treatment. Both affect the CNS, increasing sedation and impairing judgment.
Generic Versions & Cost
Generic atomoxetine available since 2017. Approximate cost: $15–40/month. FDA-certified bioequivalent to brand-name Strattera.
Starting Strattera: What to Expect
First Weeks
Atomoxetine is typically started at 40mg/day and increased gradually. Common initial side effects usually improve within 1–2 weeks. Full therapeutic benefit develops over 4–8 weeks.
When to Contact Your Psychiatrist
Contact your psychiatrist for: worsening depression/anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, unusual agitation, severe side effects, or any concerning changes.
Stopping Strattera Safely
Never stop atomoxetine abruptly. Your psychiatrist will develop a gradual tapering schedule to minimize discontinuation effects.
Timeline: When Strattera Starts Working
Timeline to Effectiveness
Expected improvement trajectory over the first 8 weeks
Based on clinical trial data. Full therapeutic effects may take 6–8 weeks.
Get Strattera from a Board-Certified Psychiatrist
At Psychiatry Telemed, atomoxetine is prescribed following comprehensive evaluation. All Florida via HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry. 1–3 days. $200 eval, $100 follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prescribed for adhd, adhd with co-occurring anxiety.
Typically 2–4 weeks for initial improvement, 4–8 weeks for full benefit.
Common: nausea, decreased appetite, headache, dry mouth, insomnia. Most resolve within 1–2 weeks.
No. Not habit-forming but should not be stopped abruptly — gradual tapering recommended.
First non-stimulant ADHD medication. Not a controlled substance — no abuse potential. Takes 4–6 weeks for full effect (unlike stimulants' immediate onset). 24-hour coverage. Good for ADHD + anxiety co
Alcohol should be avoided — increases sedation, impairs judgment, and may worsen symptoms.
Resources
Medical Disclaimer: Educational only. Consult a psychiatrist before starting/stopping medication. Crisis: call 988 or 911.
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