Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD and can cause a range of side effects, from mild to serious.[1]
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Irritability
- Sexual side effects (e.g., erectile dysfunction, decreased libido)
- Problems passing urine
Many of these effects are mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication.[2][3][7]
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly in children and adolescents (Strattera carries a boxed warning for this risk)
- Severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling, hives, difficulty breathing)
- Heart-related problems (fast/irregular heartbeat, fainting, chest pain, high blood pressure)
- Liver damage (symptoms may include yellowing of the skin/eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, unexplained fatigue)
- Seizures
- Psychotic or manic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, mania, aggression, mood swings)
These reactions are rare but can be life-threatening. Contact a doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.[1][3][4][5]
Other possible effects reported include:
- Changes in menstrual periods
- Weight loss
- Increased sweating
- Flu-like symptoms
- Mood changes or increased anxiety
It is important to discuss any unusual or severe symptoms with your healthcare provider. Most side effects either lessen with time or can be managed, but some may require discontinuing or changing the medication.[4][6]
References
- [1] Strattera Side Effects: What They Are and How to Manage Them – Healthline
- [2] Strattera Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term – Drugs.com
- [3] Strattera: Atomoxetine Side Effects, Uses, Dosages, Warnings – ADDitude Magazine
- [4] STRATTERA – Medsafe (PDF)
- [5] What are 12 key Strattera side effects to watch out for? – Drugs.com
- [6] Atomoxetine (Strattera) | National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
- [7] Strattera (atomoxetine): Side effects and how to manage them – Medical News Today