Pros and Cons of Strattera for ADHD Child

‍Strattera, otherwise known as the generic name Atomoxetine, is a medication that is commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults.

While there are many different types of medications that are generally prescribed for the treatment of ADHD, stimulants have been the front runner for ADHD treatment for centuries. However, there are a few unwanted side effects that come with the use of stimulant drugs. With that said, there are other medications available that can be effective in treating ADHD, without the side effects that are typically seen in stimulant medications.

This article will explore a non-stimulant medication that is commonly prescribed for children and adolescents with ADHD, as well as its effectiveness, side effects, and risks.

Keep reading to learn more about Strattera.

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What Is Straterra?

Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that works by increasing levels of norepinephrine in the brain and central nervous system. This medication has been approved by the FDA or Food and Drug Administration to treat symptoms of ADHD. Strattera is considered a second or third-line treatment option for ADHD and is generally prescribed to individuals who have not responded well to stimulant medications, have severe side effects, or want a non-stimulant option for their ADHD.

Strattera belongs to the class of medications known as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and is a more widely accepted treatment option for ADHD, as it is a non-stimulant medication, a controlled substance, and is non habit forming.

It is important to note that this information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as medical or diagnostic advice. Always consult with your child's doctor or medical provider regarding medications and the benefits of taking Strattera.

How Does Straterra Treat ADHD Symptoms?

Strattera has been a proven effective treatment option for managing core symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

In addition, Strattera is the first FDA approved non stimulant ADHD medication. Strattera works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, an important chemical that helps regulate attention and behavior.

Considering Strattera is a non-stimulant medication, it will work differently than medications like Ritalin and Adderall. Strattera is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased over time to reach the optimal dose for the individual. Since Strattera is a longer-acting medication, it can have lasting effects for 24 hours or more.

The usual starting dose for children is 0.5mg per kilogram of body weight, and up to 1.4mg per kilogram for the maximum daily dose.

Pros of Straterra 

Although Strattera may not be as effective as a stimulant medication for the treatment of ADHD, it is definitely a much safer alternative. Like mentioned previously, Strattera is the first non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA. The pros of taking Strattera include:

• Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication: Strattera is a non-stimulant medication, with little to no withdrawal symptoms. It is a more widely accepted medication considering it is not a controlled substance and is non habit forming. This means there is a lower likelihood of abuse, dependence, and addiction.
• Once or twice-daily dosing: Since Strattera is usually taken only once or twice each day, it can be more convenient than having to take multiple doses throughout the day. It also can have lasting effects for over 24 hours.
• Fewer Side Effects: Strattera has fewer side effects than stimulant medications. For instance, Strattera does not cause insomnia. The most common side effects when taking Strattera inlcude decreased appetite and weight loss.

Cons of Straterra 

While taking Strattera has its benefits, it also has its cons. The cons of taking Strattera include:

• Efficacy: Non stimulant medications have been approved by the FDA for treating ADHD. However, Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD medication, is considered less effective than a stimulant. It also takes 3-4 weeks for Strattera to become fully effective. This leads to individuals discontinuing the medication before giving it a chance to work due to no immediate benefits being seen.
• Side Effects: Although Strattera is limited in its side effects compared to stimulant medications, there are still side effects that should be taken into consideration. For instance, Strattera can have similar side effects to antidepressant medications, which include decreased appetite, weight loss, stomach pain, dry mouth, and mood swings.
• In addition, Strattera can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in children and teens. Children and teens need to be monitored for suicidal thinking and depressive symptoms while taking this medication.

Risks and Side Effects of Strattera

Like all medications, Strattera comes with risks and potential side effects. It is important to call your child's doctor immediately if your child experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Strattera.

Side Effects

Some of the most common side effects of Strattera include the following:

• Stomach pain or abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood swings

The less common side effects of Strattera include the following:

• Allergic reactions (such as skin rash or hives, itching, and difficulty breathing)
• Increased blood pressure or heart rate
• Changes in vision or eye pain
• Chest pain
• Seizures
• Changes in sexual function or ability, such as erectile dysfunction

Risks

It is important to be aware of the risks when taking Strattera. Strattera may increase the risk of new or worsening mental health symptoms. For instance, Strattera might increase anxiety, depression, aggression, as well as suicidal thoughts or suicidal thinking. It is important to monitor any changes noticed in your child while on Strattera. If you believe your child is having an increase in mental health symptoms, call your child's doctor immediately.

Adults taking Strattera might also have an increased risk of experiencing hypomanic or manic symptoms, specifically in individuals who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Strattera should be discontinued if psychotic or manic symptoms occur.

Finally, individuals who are currently in treatment with medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should not take Strattera.

Effectiveness for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms

Studies have indicated that Strattera treatment is effective in the reduction of ADHD symptoms in both children and adults. For instance, in clinical trials, children and adolescents who have been treated with Strattera showed significant improvements in symptoms of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviors compared to individuals who received a placebo.

Strattera has also been shown to be an effective treatment option for decreasing anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents who were diagnosed with both ADHD and comorbid anxiety disorders.

Unlike stimulant medications, Strattera may take several weeks to a month before any benefits are noticed. It is important to continue taking Strattera as prescribed, even if immediate symptom relief is not noticed.

Asking a Doctor About Straterra

As you begin to think about the different medication options available, you most likely have a multitude of questions to ask your child's doctor. Medications that are typically used to treat ADHD include stimulant medications, nonstimulant medications, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and even tricyclic antidepressants. There are different drug classes of ADHD medications, therefore, it is important be aware of which drug class your child's medication belongs to. Some examples of questions to ask your child's doctor include:

• What are the different types of ADHD medication available?
• How does Strattera work and what are its known side effects and risks?
• What are the benefits of taking Strattera?
• Can Strattera help treat ADHD symptoms?
• What other medications are used to treat ADHD?
• What other non-stimulant medications are available?
• How long will my child need to take this medication?
• Are both Strattera and Adderall XR the same medications?
• What are the best options available to treat ADHD in children?

In addition, Strattera may interact with other prescription drugs that your child is taking. With that said, it is important to disclose all medications your child is taking to your child's doctor. For instance, inform your healthcare provider if your child is taking any other prescription drugs such as antidepressant medications, blood pressure medicines, dietary supplements, herbal supplements, or nonprescription medications to limit the potential for drug interactions.

Finally, Strattera is not a cure for ADHD and should not be used as the sole treatment option. While one ADHD treatment might not work from one individual to the next, the most effective treatment is typically a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and counseling.