Atomoxetine
Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
Atomoxetine
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Click HereSummary
Atomoxetine is used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. It's a part of a comprehensive treatment program that may include psychological, educational, and social measures.
Atomoxetine works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This increases norepinephrine levels which helps improve attention and control impulsive behavior in individuals with ADHD.
For children and adolescents up to 70 kg, Atomoxetine is usually started at 0.5 mg/kg per day and can be increased to a target dose of 1.2 mg/kg per day. For those over 70 kg and adults, the starting dose is typically 40 mg per day which can be increased to 80 mg per day. It's taken as a capsule by mouth.
Common side effects include nausea, decreased appetite, and fatigue. Other side effects can include mood swings, irritability, insomnia, headaches, and weight loss. It may also cause drowsiness, dizziness, or fatigue which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Atomoxetine may cause suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents, severe liver injury, and cardiovascular effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure. It should not be used with MAOIs, in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, and severe cardiovascular disorders.
Indications and Purpose
What is Atomoxetine used for?
Atomoxetine is indicated for the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. It is used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that may include psychological, educational, and social measures to help manage symptoms of ADHD.
How does Atomoxetine work?
Atomoxetine works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This increases norepinephrine levels, which helps improve attention and control impulsive behavior in individuals with ADHD. It does not cure ADHD but helps manage its symptoms.
Is Atomoxetine effective?
Atomoxetine's effectiveness in treating ADHD has been established through multiple clinical trials. In children and adolescents, it has shown significant improvement in ADHD symptoms compared to placebo. In adults, Atomoxetine has also demonstrated efficacy in reducing ADHD symptoms, as measured by standardized rating scales.
How does one know if Atomoxetine is working?
The benefit of Atomoxetine is evaluated through regular follow-up appointments with your doctor. They will assess symptom improvement, monitor for side effects, and adjust the dosage as needed. It's important to keep all scheduled appointments and communicate any changes in symptoms or side effects.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Atomoxetine?
For children and adolescents up to 70 kg, Atomoxetine is usually started at 0.5 mg/kg per day and can be increased to a target dose of 1.2 mg/kg per day. For those over 70 kg and adults, the starting dose is typically 40 mg per day, which can be increased to 80 mg per day. The maximum dose for children and adolescents is 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg, whichever is less, and for adults, it is 100 mg per day.
How do I take Atomoxetine?
Atomoxetine should be taken as a capsule by mouth, either once a day in the morning or twice a day in the morning and late afternoon or early evening. It can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions, but it's important to take it at the same time each day for consistency.
For how long do I take Atomoxetine?
Atomoxetine is often used as a long-term treatment for ADHD. The duration of use can vary depending on individual response and the doctor's assessment. It is important to have regular evaluations to determine the ongoing need for the medication.
How long does it take for Atomoxetine to start working?
You may notice improvement in ADHD symptoms during the first week of treatment with Atomoxetine, but it can take up to one month to feel the full benefit. It's important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments to assess its effectiveness.
How should I store Atomoxetine?
Store Atomoxetine in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program, not by flushing it down the toilet.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Atomoxetine?
Important warnings for Atomoxetine include the risk of suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents, severe liver injury, and cardiovascular effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure. Contraindications include use with MAOIs, narrow-angle glaucoma, and severe cardiovascular disorders. Patients should be monitored closely for any adverse effects.
Can I take Atomoxetine with other prescription drugs?
Atomoxetine should not be used with MAOIs due to the risk of serious reactions. Caution is advised when used with CYP2D6 inhibitors, as they can increase Atomoxetine levels. It should also be used cautiously with antihypertensive drugs, pressor agents, and drugs that affect noradrenaline, as these can alter blood pressure and heart rate.
Can I take Atomoxetine with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Atomoxetine be taken safely while pregnant?
There is limited data on the use of Atomoxetine during pregnancy, and it should only be used if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. There is a pregnancy registry for monitoring outcomes, but no strong evidence from human studies indicates fetal harm. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Atomoxetine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Atomoxetine in human milk, but it is present in animal milk. Due to the lack of information, it is recommended to avoid Atomoxetine while breastfeeding. Discuss with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks before using this medication.
Is Atomoxetine safe for the elderly?
The safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of Atomoxetine in geriatric patients have not been evaluated. Therefore, caution is advised when prescribing Atomoxetine to elderly patients, and it should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Regular monitoring and assessment are recommended.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Atomoxetine?
Atomoxetine may cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, which could affect exercise tolerance. If you experience symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath during exercise, consult your doctor. They may need to adjust your treatment plan.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Atomoxetine?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
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