Strattera Overview: Common Use(s)
Strattera is most commonly used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. This medication helps improve attention span and ability to concentrate for patients with impairment. DO NOT share this drug. Supplying Strattera to any person without a prescription is strictly prohibited and prosecutable in the United States by federal law. If you are experiencing any of the above conditions, you may want to ask your doctor about the benefits of Strattera.
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Common Strattera Side Effects
Allergic reactions, angioneurotic edema, urticaria, skin rash, or an increased frequency of urination. None of the above common side effects require immediate attention. If you experience them for a few days, talk to your physician about more advice. Do not try to treat them on your own.
Less Common Strattera Side Effects
High blood pressure, or an unusually fast heart rate. If you are experiencing any of the above conditions, you may want to ask your doctor about the benefits of Strattera.
What Does My Physician Need To Know?
Let your doctor know if you have any of the following conditions: Narrow angle glaucoma, if you develop high blood pressure, or unusually fast heart rate. Make sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or currently trying to become pregnant.
How To Take Strattera
Always follow the instructions on the bottle of the prescription drug. Drink water when you swallow your tablets. Be sure to take your doses with regular intervals between them. If Strattera upsets your stomach, you may take your doses with food or milk. Take only as directed by your doctor. And do not stop taking this medicine without first consulting your physician about how to do it safely. Children taking this drug may require special instructions. Be sure to ask about these differences if you are getting this medication for your child.
Missed A Dose of Strattera?
Never take double or extra doses! If you’ve missed a dose of Strattera, take one as soon as possible. But if it’s almost time for the NEXT scheduled dose, only take THAT NEXT DOSE. Remember NEVER to take double or extra doses.
Interacting Medicines
Any Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI), albuterol, alcohol, paroxetine, fluoxetine, quinidine, pressor agents (for blood), or grapefruit juice. Let your physician know if you are taking any other medications. Also let your doctor know if you are a frequent caffeine or alcohol consumer, if you smoke, or if you use any other legal or illegal drugs. All of these may affect your expected benefit from Strattera.
What You Should Watch For While Taking Strattera
Get regular checkups from your doctor while taking Strattera (including blood pressure and heart rate testing). You can better monitor your progress this way. Be sure to tell your doctor if your condition has worsened, or has not improved. The peak of this medicine occurs between one hour and 2 hours after dosage. Adjustments of your dose is recommended for patients with moderate to severe hepatic insufficiency. Patients with narrow angle glaucoma are recommended not to take Strattera. DO NOT abruptly stop taking this drug!! Consult your doctor about how to safely stop your doses. Your body may become dependent on this medicine. Strattera may affect your body for several days after you stop taking it. You may experience drowsiness or dizziness. Don’t use any heavy machinery or operate any type of vehicle until you know how this medicine affects you. You may faint or become dizzy if you sit or stand too quickly. Do not consume alcohol while taking Strattera. Let your doctor know if you are scheduled for surgery. (Also let the doctors know you are taking Strattera if you become in need of unexpected surgery). If you experience coughs, allergies, or a cold, be sure to contact your physician for professional advice. Do not try to treat yourself for these symptoms. Some ingredients found in other medicines may affect the expected performance of Strattera and may also increase side effects.
Storing Your Strattera Medicine
Keep Strattera at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep out of direct sunlight and moisture. Be sure to throw away any unused Strattera or if expired. Most importantly, store Strattera safely and keep out of the reach of children; in a small childproof container.
Alternative Prescription Drugs to Strattera
Atomoxetine
