Strattera

Drug Uses

 

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that is used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

How it is taken

Strattera can be taken by mouth with food to avoid an upset stomach. Swallow the capsules whole without crushing or chewing it. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.

The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that increases the action of certain chemicals like norepinephrine in the brain. This helps in improving attention span and the behavior of the person.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Strattera then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

Straterra may cause drowsiness or dizziness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

Sit up or get up slowly in the morning until you know how to deal with these effects.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you are taking or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (e.g., phenelzine) within the last 14 days, you have certain heart problems (e.g., heart defect, heart failure), certain types of irregular heartbeat, severe blood vessel problems, or narrow-angle glaucoma.

Strattera may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in some children or teenagers. The chances of this occurring increases manifold if they suffer from bipolar (manic-depressive) illness. If you notice any symptoms like depressed mood, anxious, restless, or irritable behavior, panic attacks, or any unusual change in mood or behavior occur, then contact your doctor immediately.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

If your doctor has prescribed a potassium supplement to you, then keep taking it according to the prescribed dosage.

may affect your blood sugar level and may make you feel confused, drowsy, or thirsty. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.

Strattera should be used with extreme caution in children below 6 years of age as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Strattera may cause certain lab tests including heart rate, blood pressure, and liver function to be incorrect. Ensure that your lab personnel know that you are taking the drug.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
 

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are constipation, coughing, decreased appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, increased sweating, indigestion, nausea, stomach upset, tiredness, vomiting. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), chest pain, dark urine, decreased sexual ability (e.g., impotence, ejaculation problems), fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, chills, or sore throat, hallucinations, menstrual cycle changes, mental or mood changes (e.g., agitation, anxiety, depression, irritability, persistent crying, unusual sadness), new or worsening behavior changes (e.g., aggression, hostility, restlessness), numbness or tingling, one-sided weakness, pale stools, persistent fatigue or tiredness, prolonged or painful erection, seizure, severe or persistent headache, stomach pain or tenderness, suicidal thoughts or attempts, trouble sleeping, trouble urinating, unusual vision or speech changes, unusually cold or blue fingers or toes, yellowing of skin or eyes.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.