Atomoxetine: What It Does and What to Know

Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a prescription medicine used mainly to treat ADHD in children, teens, and adults. It works differently than stimulant drugs — it selectively blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine, which can improve attention and reduce impulsivity. People choose atomoxetine when stimulants aren’t suitable or there's concern about misuse or sleep problems caused by stimulants.

How it's taken matters. Doctors usually start at a low dose and increase it after a few weeks to find the right balance between benefit and side effects. You can take it with or without food, but taking it at the same time each day helps steady blood levels. It doesn’t work instantly like stimulants; expect several weeks before noticing changes.

How to use atomoxetine

Typical dosing varies by age and weight. For children and teens doctors often start at about 0.5 mg per kg per day for a few days, then increase to around 1.2 mg/kg/day. The usual maximum is 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg. Adults commonly begin at 40 mg daily and move to 80 mg daily after a few weeks. Your prescriber will tell you whether to split doses or take it once daily.

Side effects are common but mild. The most reported issues are stomach upset, decreased appetite, sleepiness, and dry mouth. Some people notice increased heart rate or blood pressure, so doctors usually check vital signs before and during treatment. Rarely, atomoxetine can affect liver function or mood — if you or a family member notice yellowing skin, dark urine, worsening depression, or thoughts of self-harm, contact a healthcare provider right away.

Who should avoid atomoxetine? People with certain heart conditions, narrow-angle glaucoma, or a known allergy to the drug should not use it. Also tell your doctor about any antidepressants, blood pressure meds, or drugs that affect the liver — interactions can change how atomoxetine works. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should discuss risks and benefits with their clinician.

Safety and buying tips

Wanting to buy atomoxetine online? Be cautious. Only use licensed pharmacies and expect to need a prescription. Avoid sites that offer no-prescription sales or suspiciously low prices — pills from unknown sources can be counterfeit, contaminated, or the wrong dose. If you must order online, check pharmacy certifications, read customer reviews, and confirm a real pharmacist is available to answer questions.

Practical tips for getting the best results: keep a simple symptom diary for the first eight weeks — note focus, sleep, appetite, and mood. Share that with your prescriber to fine-tune the dose. Don’t suddenly stop atomoxetine without medical advice; withdrawal may cause symptoms. If side effects are bothersome, ask about dose adjustments or alternative treatments. Avoid MAO inhibitors within 14 days and mention antidepressants like fluoxetine or paroxetine, which raise atomoxetine levels. Check heart history and monitor growth in children. Generic atomoxetine is available and cheaper. Always use licensed pharmacies, keep medicine at room temperature, and ask your pharmacist questions about side effects or interactions.