This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.

Common Uses

Strattera is used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a condition marked by either constant activity, a persistent inability to stay focused, or both. Medications such as Strattera should always be part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychological, educational, and social measures designed to remedy the problem.

Strattera is the first ADHD medication to avoid classification as a controlled substance (a drug with potential for abuse). It is thought to work by boosting levels of norepinephrine, one of the brain chemicals responsible for regulating activity. It is prescribed for children and adults.

How to Take

For children and teenagers weighing up to 154 pounds, the usual starting dosage is 0.5 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day. After at least 3 days, the doctor may increase the daily total to a recommended level of 1.2 milligrams per 2.2 pounds. Daily doses should never exceed 1.4 milligrams per 2.2 pounds or a total of 100 milligrams, whichever is less. Strattera has not been tested in children under 6.

For adults and teenagers weighing over 154 pounds, the usual starting dosage is 40 milligrams per day. After at least 3 days, the doctor may increase the daily total to a recommended level of 80 milligrams. After another 2 to 4 weeks, dosage may be increased to a maximum of 100 milligrams daily.

If you have liver problems, your dosage will be reduced.

Warning and Precautions

During clinical trials, researchers found that Strattera slowed children's average rate of growth. It's not known whether final adult height and weight are affected, but the manufacturer recommends interrupting use of the drug if a child is not growing or gaining weight at the expected rate.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

Signs of a Strattera overdose may include: abnormal behavior, agitation, dilated pupils, dry mouth, hyperactivity, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness and stomach problems.

Storage

Store Strattera at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Strattera out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects in children may include: appetite loss, constipation, cough, crying, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, ear infection, fatigue, headache, indigestion, influenza, irritability, mood swings, nausea, runny nose, skin inflammation, stomach pain, vomiting, weight loss.

Side effects in adults may include: abnormal dreams, abnormal orgasms, appetite loss, chills, constipation, diminished sex drive, dizziness, dry mouth, ejaculation disorders, erection problems, fatigue or sluggishness, fever, headache, hot flushes, impotence, indigestion, insomnia, gas, menstrual problems, muscle pain, nausea, palpitations, prostate inflammation, sinusitis, skin inflammation, sleep disorder, sweating, tingling, urinary problems, weight loss.

More Information

The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Strattera. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.