About Strattera for ADHD: Do Strattera Side Effects Outweigh The Effectiveness In Managing ADHD?

About Strattera for ADHD: Do Strattera Side Effects Outweigh The Effectiveness In Managing ADHD?
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A variety of stimulant medications are commonly used to manage Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Strattera, the brand name for Atomoxetine HCl, is an additional option for patients with ADHD who wish to try a non-stimulant medication. However, what about the Strattera side effects?

How Strattera Works

Strattera, a medication that is prescribed to relieve the symptoms of ADHD, works by increasing levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This in turn allows a child with ADHD to better manage their tendencies toward impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, and lack of focus. Many parents are pleased with the option of having their children try Strattera for ADHD because unlike Ritalin, Adderall, or Concerta, this medication is not a stimulant. A number of children with ADHD have responded well to Strattera, though the medication is not without the risks of troubling side effects.

Because Strattera is a non-stimulant medication, there is no risk of abuse involved and prescriptions can easily be refilled by phone. Children and adults whose systems tolerate the daily use of Strattera are able to benefit from the improved ability to pay attention to tasks, stay organized at school or work, and follow detailed instructions. This medication can also be a good choice for people with ADHD who suffer from anxiety disorders as well.

Potential Side Effects Of Strattera

The use of Strattera for ADHD treatment can sometimes result in the occurrence of negative side effects. Some of these issues include dizziness, nausea, stomachache, fatigue, mood swings, and a decrease in appetite. Many of these symptoms will improve as the body adjusts to Strattera, though it is very important for parents to closely monitor how their children react to the medication and report any severe physical side effects to a doctor.

One of the rare side effects of Strattera that is quite concerning is the possibility of increased suicidal ideation in children and young adults. This symptom affects approximately 4 of every 1,000 children and teens who are prescribed Strattera for ADHD treatment. Parents who decide to have their children try Strattera should watch closely for sudden instances of aggression, self-harm, depression, and feelings of hopelessness. Any alarming changes in a child’s behavior after starting Strattera should immediately be reported to the physician or psychiatrist who is monitoring the use of this ADHD medication.

Strattera is a viable option for children and adults to explore if they need relief from ADHD symptoms but are reluctant to take a stimulant medication. However, some potential Strattera side effects are troublesome to the degree that use of the drug should be discontinued. People with ADHD who are interested in Strattera are advised to contact a medical professional for guidance.

1. https://pediatrics.about.com/cs/adhd/a/strattera.htm

2. https://www.strattera.com/child/how_strattera_help/benefits_of_strattera_child.jsp

3. https://www.strattera.com/child/how_strattera_help/side_effects_child.jsp