*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Strattera, with the active ingredient atomoxetine, is a non-stimulant medication in the selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor drug class.1 Strattera is FDA-approved to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. Common side effects of Strattera may include constipation, dry mouth, nausea, and dizziness.1
If you’re considering Strattera, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health can connect you with a provider quickly. They offer assessments and can provide a prescription if they determine Strattera or another medication may help your symptoms.
Boxed Warning: Atomoxetine (Strattera) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
Key Takeaways
Strattera is a prescription antidepressant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults.
Strattera, with the active ingredient atomoxetine, is a non-stimulant medication in the selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor drug class.
If you are considering Strattera, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry or Circle Medical.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
What Is Strattera (Atomoxetine)?
Strattera is a brand name ADHD medication in the selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor drug class. It is a non-stimulant medication, FDA-approved for treating ADHD in children and adults. Strattera is available as the generic medication atomoxetine with the same risks and treatment benefits as the branded form.
How Does Strattera Work?
Strattera is thought to work by affecting the levels of two chemical messengers in the body, serotonin and norepinephrine. This activity may help improve attention and decrease impulsivity for some.1
What Is Strattera Used to Treat?
Strattera is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older. It may be used as a first-line treatment or in combination with other medications.
Off-Label (Non-FDA-Approved) Uses of Strattera
Strattera may also be used off-label for treating other conditions. An off-label use of a medication is one that is not FDA-approved. Providers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Strattera may be prescribed off-label for the treatment of:2
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Adults with ADHD and partially responsive major depressive disorder
- Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension
How Effective Is Strattera?
Strattera has been studied more extensively in children and adolescents than in adults, with many studies showing its effectiveness in treating ADHD. Patients who were given weight-based Strattera doses once daily in the morning had significantly improved ADHD symptoms, when compared to patients receiving the placebo.
Strattera showed effectiveness as a treatment for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive ADHD. Strattera was also studied as maintenance treatment and positive results were found in a double blind study over eight months.1
When studies have compared Strattera to stimulants in the treatment of ADHD, both show significant improvement of symptoms. A few studies have shown that stimulants, specifically methylphenidate and extended release amphetamine salts, may have a higher response rate.
This information should be considered with the risks that come with stimulant medication use. These risks include dependence and abuse, suicidal thoughts, and growth impairment of children.3 The selection of an ADHD treatment is made with you and your provider with your specific needs in mind.
How Long Does it Take for Strattera to Work?
Strattera can take about 4-8 weeks to become fully effective, but some individuals may notice their symptoms improve after the first week or two. Each person may have a different response time based on how their body absorbs and processes the medication.
How Long Do I Need to Keep Taking Strattera?
The length of treatment with Strattera will be different for each patient and will be based on many different factors. The goals of treatment, response to treatment, and side effects from treatment will all help determine its duration.
Keep all follow-up appointments with your provider and alert them if you experience any side effects or are prescribed new medications. Many patients have safely taken Strattera for years to months, while others may only use it for a few weeks to a few months.
Common Strattera Side Effects
Strattera can cause several common side effects affecting the digestive system, sleep, and sexual functioning. Some may require medical attention but many often resolve on their own.
Common side effects of Strattera for adults may include:*1
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of bladder control, difficulty urinating
Common side effects of Strattera for children and adolescents may include:*1
- Upset stomach
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Mood swings
*All medications, including Strattera, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
Serious Strattera Side Effects
Some side effects of Strattera may be serious with some becoming life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if you experience any of the serious side effects listed below.
Serious side effects of Strattera that require immediate medical care include:*1
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Aggressive behavior or hostility
- Symptoms of mania or hypomania
- Serious heart problems
- Potentially harmful changes in blood pressure and heart rate
- Effects on children’s growth
- Liver problems
- Problems with urination
- Priapism (painful prolonged erections)
- Any new or worsened psychiatric symptoms
*All medications, including Strattera, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
What Are The Long-term Effects of Taking Strattera?
Long-term effects from Strattera in children were studied for over two years and the results showed that long-term treatment is well tolerated. There were some reports of increases in pulse and blood pressure over time, or a decline in effectiveness.4
There is also a risk of certain long-term side effects such as slowing of growth in children. You should talk with your healthcare provider about your or your child’s treatment with Strattera to ensure it is safe to continue taking the medication.
When taking any mental health medication, your provider will monitor your progress and response no matter the length of treatment. If you have underlying heart issues, regular follow-up visits with your provider are a priority. Alert your healthcare team if you have any changes in other medications or new conditions diagnosed as these can cause new side effects to occur.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
What Are the Risks & Warnings for Strattera?
Suicidal Thoughts & Behaviors
Atomoxetine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with atomoxetine and any other medications before starting treatment.
New Psychotric Symptoms
Strattera can cause new psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations, mania, and aggression.
Priapism
There have been reports of Strattera causing priapism (sustained erections lasting more than 4 hours).
Serious Cardiovascular Events
Strattera can cause severe heart problems and sudden death, particularly in those with structural or other serious heart problems.
Elevated Blood Pressure & Heart Rate
Strattera can increase blood pressure and heart rate in children and adults.
Difficulty Urinating
A small percentage of individuals taking Strattera may experience the inability to fully empty the bladder or difficulty initiating and maintaining urine flow.
Slowed or Decreased Growth in Children
Strattera may cause slowed or decreased growth in children, and this should be monitored during treatment with Strattera.
Severe Liver Injury
Although rare, Strattera may cause severe liver injury, and liver tests may need to be monitored when taking the medication.
Pregnancy
Strattera may not be safe during pregnancy, and its use should be discussed with a healthcare provider to weigh potential risks and benefits.
Breastfeeding
The possible risks of taking Strattera while breastfeeding are unclear. Talk to your prescriber about how this may affect your treatment and any plans to breastfeed.
Allergic Reactions
For some people, Strattera may cause an allergic reaction, which includes symptoms such as reaction, rash, and swelling of the face, hands, or feet.
Severe allergic reactions to Strattera can include:
- Breathing problems
- Swelling
- Rash or hives
If you experience trouble breathing as part of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care.
Drug Interactions
Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Strattera can change how Strattera works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Substances you should avoid using while taking Strattera include:
- Blood pressure medications, both those the raise and lower blood pressure
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Albuterol for asthma
- CYP2D6 inhibitors, including antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and bupropion (Wellbutrin)
This is not a comprehensive list of all possible drug interactions for Strattera. Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over the counter medications you take, as well as supplements, herbs, and teas.
Who Should Not Take Strattera?
Some patients are more likely to experience side effects from Strattera than others. While side effects may occur for anyone, those with certain risks should be cautious with Strattera, possibly avoiding it.
Adolescent patients and their parents should be aware of the risk of increased suicidal ideation when starting Strattera. Discuss any health conditions for yourself or your child with your physician when considering treatment. This information will help them select the most suitable medication for you.
Those with a history of certain health concerns have a higher risk of side effects, such as:
- Liver problems
- Kidney problems
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- A higher risk of stroke
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
- Being pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
- Psychotic or manic symptoms
- Prior allergic reactions to atomoxetine
- A history of narrow-angle glaucoma
- A history of pheochromocytoma (tumor on the adrenal gland)
Drug Interactions With Strattera
Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Strattera can change how Strattera works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Substances you should avoid using while taking Strattera include:1
- Blood pressure medications, both those the raise and lower blood pressure
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Albuterol for asthma
- CYP2D6 inhibitors, including antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and bupropion (Wellbutrin)
This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with Strattera. You should talk with your provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before starting Strattera.
Strattera Withdrawal
There is no evidence that taking Strattera leads to drug discontinuation syndrome or withdrawal.1 However, discontinuation of the medication should be done under the guidance of your healthcare provider, and it may be best to wean off the medication slowly over time.
Strattera Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment
The typical dosage for Strattera ranges from 10mg to 100mg. The right Strattera dosage for each individual may differ between individuals. Providers will select a dose for patients determined by diagnosis, age, weight, medical history, how well the first doses work, and how well the medication is tolerated.
How Should I Take Strattera?
Strattera should be swallowed whole with water or other liquids around the same time every day. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label. Strattera capsules should not be opened, chewed, or crushed when taking them. Strattera can be taken with or without food.1
What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Strattera?
If you forget to take your Strattera dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due soon, skip the missed one and take your next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Keep taking your medication as prescribed unless your provider changes your instructions.
Can You Overdose on Strattera?
Yes, you can overdose on Strattera. Patients have reported seizures due to Strattera overdose. The potential for severe liver injury may exist for some people taking Strattera. Strattera overdose symptoms may include increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, headache, agitation, and nausea.
What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Strattera?
Strattera overdose is a medical emergency. If a Strattera overdose is suspected, go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1. You may also call 1(800) 222-1222 for specific guidance from Poison Control.
How to Get a Prescription for Strattera
The first step of getting a prescription for Strattera in person is an evaluation of your symptoms. Your primary care provider, who may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, can help you get the process started. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist, if needed. They will determine if a prescription for Strattera should be part of your treatment.
Can I Get Strattera Prescribed Online?
To get an online prescription for a Strattera or an alternative, you will also start with an evaluation. We have thoroughly reviewed online psychiatry platforms like Talkiatry and Circle Medical, which can prescribe non-controlled substances such as Strattera.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
Your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist can discuss possible side effects of Strattera with you, especially those that may happen when starting your treatment. Ask them whether these side effects will go away on their own and what to do if they persist.
Also, many online psychiatry services provide convenient access to mental health care for depression and anxiety problems. You get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan. Some platforms also allow you to change providers, if needed.
Questions to ask your care team about Strattera side effects may include:
- I am currently taking another medication. Will Strattera interact with it in any way?
- How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Strattera?
- How quickly can Strattera cause side effects?
- What are the first days of Strattera side effects like?
- Does Strattera have any potential effects on appetite?
- What is the best dosage to reduce side effects, especially in the first week?
- How often should I take the medication, and at what time of day?
- Are there any specific instructions for taking Strattera with or without food?
- How will my dosage be adjusted over time, if necessary?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your provider will share important information about your Strattera prescription. They will explain how to take your medication and the best way to store it. They will also explain what to avoid when taking it and what to do about any side effects that occur. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Strattera.
- Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects.1
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, which will help it be as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can determine the best time to take your medication based on how you respond to it and your sleep patterns.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. Strattera has a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults.
- You should take your first dose while you are home and not needing to drive. Strattera has been known to cause drowsiness in some patients. Avoid driving after taking Strattera until you know how it affects you.1
- Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Strattera.
- Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Strattera Be Used During Pregnancy?
The risks of taking Strattera during pregnancy are unclear. Talk with your healthcare provider to weigh potential risks and benefits of using Strattera while pregnant.
Can Strattera Be Used While Breastfeeding?
The possible risks of taking Strattera while breastfeeding are unclear. Talk to your prescriber about how this may affect your treatment and any plans to breastfeed.
Is it Safe to Drive While Taking Strattera?
It depends. Drowsiness is a possible side effect of Strattera. If you feel drowsy during the day, avoid activities that require you to be alert, such as driving or operating machinery.
What Are Common Side Effects of Strattera?
Common side effects of Strattera may include constipation, dry mouth, nausea, and dizziness.1
How Long Will Strattera Side Effects Last?
Side effects are one of the most common reasons people choose to stop taking medication. While some Strattera side effects can be managed and may fade away after a few weeks, some may persist unless a person stops taking the medication. Side effects can occur even when taking the medication correctly.
Strattera Vs. Adderall: Which One Is Better?
Both Strattera and Adderall have their place in treating ADHD symptoms. No two therapies are alike, and what may be appropriate for one individual may not be for another. What medication you should take depends on many factors a doctor will consider.
Should I Stop Taking Strattera If I Start Feeling Side Effects?
There is no evidence that taking Strattera leads to drug discontinuation syndrome or withdrawal. However, it’s best to take your medication as prescribed and only stop taking it or change the dosage as directed by your provider.
Can Strattera Worsen Symptoms at First?
Yes, some people starting Strattera may experience uncomfortable side effects such as increased constipation, dry mouth, and nausea.1 Strattera can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some people, including young adults and adolescents. If you experience any worsened symptoms or side effects, contact your provider as soon as possible.
ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
-
Strattera – atomoxetine hydrochloride capsule. (February 28, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
-
Fedder D, Patel H, Saadabadi A. Atomoxetine. [Updated 2023 Mar 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493234/
-
Gibson, A. P., Bettinger, T. L., Patel, N. C., & Crismon, M. L. (2006). Atomoxetine versus stimulants for treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The Annals of pharmacotherapy, 40(6), 1134–1142. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1345/aph.1G582
-
Kratochvil, C. J., Wilens, T. E., Greenhill, L. L., Gao, H., Baker, K. D., Feldman, P. D., & Gelowitz, D. L. (2006). Effects of long-term atomoxetine treatment for young children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 45(8), 919–927. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1097/01.chi.0000222788.34229.68
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary updates: Added “Key Takeaways” feature. Edited for clarity and reorganized. Revised and retitled content in “What is Strattera?” Added sections titled “How Effective Is Strattera?”, “How Long Does it Take Strattera to Work?”, “How Long Do I Need to Keep Taking Strattera?”, “What Are the Long-term Effects of Strattera?”. Retitled “Does Stopping Strattera Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?” to “Strattera Withdrawal”. Consolidated “Strattera Warnings & Precautions” into new “Risks” feature. Added “Who Should Not Take Strattera?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Strattera”. Retitled “Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Strattera” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Removed “For Further Reading” section, added FAQs. Replaced “Final Thoughts” with “Prescriber’s Tips” feature.
Author: Luke Prest, MD
Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
Your Voice Matters
Can't find what you're looking for?
Request an article! Tell ChoosingTherapy.com’s editorial team what questions you have about mental health, emotional wellness, relationships, and parenting. Our licensed therapists are just waiting to cover new topics you care about!
Leave your feedback for our editors.
Share your feedback on this article with our editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.
Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry – can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
Online Psychiatry
Circle Medical – ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment. Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same & next day appointments available. Visit Circle Medical
ADHD Medication Management + Therapy
Brightside Health – Different people experience ADHD in different ways. That’s why Brightside Health develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1-on-1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. No controlled substances. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start your free assessment.
ADHD Management Tool
Inflow App – is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain and build lifelong skills. Free Trial
Do you think you have ADHD?
Answer an evidence-based questionnaire for Circles Medical to learn more. Takes 45 seconds.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
