Atomoxetine (Strattera): what it does and who it helps

Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medicine used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). You may know it by the brand name Strattera. Unlike stimulants, atomoxetine mainly affects norepinephrine and does not carry the same risk of abuse. It can help reduce impulsiveness, improve attention, and lower hyperactivity for many people — but it works slower than stimulant options and often takes several weeks to show full benefit.

How atomoxetine is taken and what to expect

Doctors usually start low and adjust the dose. In adults the daily dose commonly caps around 100 mg, but your prescriber will tailor it to your needs. You’ll often take it once a day, with or without food. Expect gradual improvement: some people notice changes in 1–2 weeks, while others need 4–6 weeks to feel the full effect. If you don’t feel better after a few months, talk to your clinician about alternatives or adding therapy.

Common side effects include decreased appetite, nausea, tiredness, dry mouth, and mild stomach upset. These often ease after the first few weeks. Two safety issues to watch closely: atomoxetine can raise blood pressure and heart rate, and it carries a boxed warning for increased suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents. If you or a caregiver notice new mood changes, worsening anxiety, or suicidal ideas, contact your doctor right away.

Interactions, monitoring, and safety checks

Don’t combine atomoxetine with MAO inhibitors. Also be careful with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (for example, fluoxetine or paroxetine) because they can raise atomoxetine levels and increase side effects. Before starting, your clinician may check blood pressure and heart rate. Report symptoms like yellowing of skin or dark urine — rare liver problems have been reported. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have heart disease, discuss risks and alternatives with your provider.

Think about therapy and school supports too. Medication often works best when combined with behavioral strategies, counseling, or classroom adjustments. If stimulants haven’t worked for you or aren’t an option, atomoxetine is a reasonable non-stimulant choice to discuss with your prescriber.

Want to buy atomoxetine online? Get a legitimate prescription first. Use licensed pharmacies, look for pharmacist contact info, and avoid sites that ship without a prescription or offer unrealistically low prices. If you order internationally, check local regulations and delivery times. When in doubt, ask your healthcare team to recommend a safe pharmacy.

If you have questions about dosing, side effects, or how atomoxetine fits into your ADHD plan, bring a list of your medicines and symptoms to your next appointment. Clear communication makes treatment safer and more effective.