Strattera (atomoxetine): What it does and how to use it safely

Strattera is a non-stimulant prescription used for ADHD in children, teens, and adults. It works on norepinephrine, not on dopamine like stimulants, so it’s a different option when stimulants aren’t right. You’ll often hear people say it takes longer to work than stimulants—usually a few weeks—so patience helps.

How to take Strattera safely

Doctors usually start with a low dose and adjust after a few weeks. Adults often begin around 40 mg daily, then move toward 80 mg; some may need up to 100 mg. For kids, dose depends on weight, so follow the prescription exactly. Take it at the same time every day; if it causes stomach upset, take with food. If it keeps you awake, take it earlier in the morning. Don’t change dose or stop suddenly without checking with your prescriber.

Tell your doctor about other medicines you take. Strattera is processed by the liver enzyme CYP2D6, so drugs that affect that enzyme can raise or lower Strattera levels. Avoid combining it with MAO inhibitors and be cautious with medicines that affect blood pressure or the heart. If you’re a known poor CYP2D6 metabolizer, your doctor may choose a lower dose and watch you closely.

Side effects and warnings

Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, decreased appetite, tiredness, and sleep trouble. Most people see these ease after a few weeks. A small number can have more serious effects: mood changes or worsening depression, liver problems (look for dark urine, yellow skin), and increased heart rate or blood pressure. Children and teens should be watched for any new suicidal thoughts—medical teams take this risk seriously and monitor closely.

Before starting Strattera, get a baseline check of heart rate and blood pressure. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or liver issues, discuss risks with your doctor. If you notice severe side effects, call your prescriber right away. Routine follow-up visits help adjust dose and check how well the drug is working for attention and behavior.

Thinking about buying Strattera online? Always use a licensed pharmacy and keep the prescription on file. Avoid sites that sell without prescriptions or offer suspiciously low prices—counterfeit or mishandled drugs can be unsafe. Look for clear contact info, pharmacy licensing, and secure payment. When in doubt, ask your doctor for a recommended pharmacy.

Strattera can help many people with ADHD, especially when stimulants aren’t suitable. It needs time to work and proper follow-up. Keep your prescriber informed about benefits and side effects so you can find the right dose and get the best results.