last update: November 14, 2025
Strattera (generic name: atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication approved to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years and older, adolescents, and adults. Unlike stimulant medicines, Strattera is not a controlled substance and has a low risk of misuse. It belongs to a class of medicines called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). By increasing norepinephrine levels in key areas of the brain, Strattera helps improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and moderate hyperactive behaviors in many people living with ADHD.
While the precise mechanism in ADHD is not fully understood, clinical evidence shows that enhancing norepinephrine signaling can meaningfully improve core ADHD symptoms. For individuals who cannot tolerate stimulants, have certain co-existing conditions, or prefer a non-stimulant option, atomoxetine is a well-established alternative.
Strattera may be suitable for:
As with any ADHD treatment, selection should be individualized and guided by a qualified clinician who considers medical history, coexisting conditions, daily schedule, and personal preferences.
Strattera selectively blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in attention, motivation, and behavioral regulation. This increases norepinephrine availability in the prefrontal cortex and related circuits that govern focus, working memory, and impulse control. The result for many patients is better sustained attention and fewer disruptive ADHD symptoms throughout the day. Because atomoxetine is not a stimulant and does not raise dopamine in the same way as stimulant medications, it has a different side effect profile and a lower risk of misuse.
Take Strattera exactly as prescribed by your clinician. It can be taken with or without food; taking it with food or a small snack may reduce stomach upset. Swallow capsules whole—do not crush, chew, or open them. If a capsule breaks, avoid direct contact with the contents; wash hands and any surfaces that come into contact. Do not get the medication powder in your eyes. If contact occurs, rinse with cool water and seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Consistency helps: take Strattera at the same time each day. Some people take it once daily in the morning; others split the dose into morning and late afternoon/early evening to improve tolerability. Your prescriber will recommend a schedule that matches your needs.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
In people with hepatic impairment, lower dosing is required. For moderate liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh B), reduce dose by about 50%; for severe impairment (Child-Pugh C), reduce by about 75%. No routine adjustment is needed for kidney impairment, but clinical monitoring is prudent in severe renal disease.
Atomoxetine has a gradual onset. Some patients notice early improvements in focus and impulse control within 1 to 2 weeks, but it often takes 4 to 8 weeks—and sometimes up to 12 weeks—for full therapeutic benefit. Do not stop the medication prematurely; continue as directed while your prescriber monitors your progress and adjusts dose as needed.
Store Strattera at room temperature, ideally 77°F (25°C), with brief excursions permitted between 59°F and 86°F (15–30°C). Keep capsules in a dry place away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Do not store in bathrooms. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use capsules that are damaged or opened.
Each Strattera capsule contains atomoxetine hydrochloride, an SNRI indicated for ADHD. Multiple capsule strengths are available to allow individualized dosing. Generic atomoxetine is widely available and therapeutically equivalent when manufactured by reliable, regulated sources.
If any of the above apply to you, consult a healthcare professional before using atomoxetine. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without medical advice.
Share a complete list of your medications, supplements, and herbal products with your clinician. Notable interactions include:
This is not a complete list of interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Many people tolerate atomoxetine well, but side effects can occur, particularly during the first weeks of treatment or after a dose increase. Frequently reported effects include:
These effects are often mild and may improve as your body adjusts. If symptoms persist or become troublesome, contact your prescriber; dose adjustments, timing changes, or supportive strategies can help.
Stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate- or amphetamine-based medicines) remain first-line for many patients because they often work quickly and have robust evidence. However, Strattera is a valuable option when stimulants are ineffective, poorly tolerated, or not preferred. Key differences include:
In select cases, clinicians may combine atomoxetine with other ADHD strategies, including behavioral therapy or, rarely, adjunct pharmacotherapy. Any combination approach should be supervised by a clinician experienced in ADHD management.
Atomoxetine is widely available as a generic, which can lower out-of-pocket costs. Online pricing may start as low as $0.58 per capsule depending on strength, quantity, and pharmacy discount programs. Availability in the USA, Canada, and the UK is robust, though exact prices vary by region, insurer, and supply chain. If cost is a concern, ask your clinician or pharmacist about:
Always verify that any online pharmacy is licensed and requires a valid prescription. Avoid sources that offer prescription medications without verifying your identity or health information.
Alcohol can intensify dizziness or drowsiness from atomoxetine; moderate or avoid as directed. Caffeine may compound jitteriness in sensitive individuals—monitor your response. Consistent sleep routines, regular physical activity, structured schedules, and behavioral strategies complement medication benefits and can markedly improve day-to-day functioning with ADHD.
In the United States, atomoxetine (Strattera) is a prescription-only medication. Federal and state laws require that it be dispensed pursuant to a valid prescription issued by a licensed clinician after an appropriate medical evaluation. This evaluation can be conducted in person or via compliant telehealth services, and prescriptions may be transmitted electronically to licensed pharmacies.
For your safety, avoid websites that ship prescription medications without verifying your medical history or requiring a valid prescription. Using legitimate channels protects you from counterfeit or substandard products, dangerous drug interactions, and privacy risks.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Petersburg offers a legal and structured pathway to access care even if you do not already have a paper prescription. Patients can be connected with licensed providers for an appropriate clinical evaluation, and when medically indicated, a valid electronic prescription for Strattera can be issued and filled by licensed partner pharmacies. This approach preserves safety, quality, and regulatory compliance while streamlining access to ADHD treatment.
If you reside outside the U.S. (e.g., Canada or the UK), local regulations apply. Always consult your regional prescribing and pharmacy rules and use accredited pharmacies that adhere to national standards.
Strattera is a non-stimulant ADHD medication that selectively blocks norepinephrine reuptake, increasing norepinephrine in brain regions that regulate attention, impulse control, and executive function. It is not an amphetamine or methylphenidate and is not a controlled substance.
Strattera is approved for children age 6 and older, adolescents, and adults with ADHD. It may be considered when stimulants are not tolerated, are ineffective, or are not appropriate due to tics, anxiety, heart issues, or substance misuse risk.
Some people notice early benefits within 1–2 weeks, but it commonly takes 4–8 weeks to see the full effect as the dose is optimized and steady-state levels are reached.
Adults and adolescents over 70 kg often start at 40 mg daily, increasing to 80 mg after at least 3 days, and up to 100 mg if needed after 2–4 weeks. Children and adolescents 70 kg or less typically start at 0.5 mg/kg/day and target about 1.2 mg/kg/day (max 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg, whichever is lower). It can be taken once daily or split twice daily.
Take it at a consistent time daily. Morning is common; if it causes sleepiness, evening may work better. Food can reduce nausea, so taking with a meal or snack is fine. Swallow capsules whole.
Nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth, stomach upset, dizziness, fatigue or sleepiness, trouble sleeping, constipation, sweating, and sexual side effects are most common. Many improve after the first few weeks.
Seek care for yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain or itching (possible liver injury), chest pain, fainting, new or worsening suicidal thoughts (black box warning in children/adolescents), severe allergic reaction, sustained painful erection (priapism), or sudden vision changes from angle-closure glaucoma. Stop and call your clinician if liver injury is suspected.
Strattera is not a stimulant and is not habit-forming. It does not produce a “buzz” or euphoria at prescribed doses and is not a controlled substance.
It can modestly increase blood pressure and heart rate. Most changes are small, but monitoring is recommended, especially if you have hypertension or cardiac disease.
Yes, for some people with ADHD and anxiety, atomoxetine can improve both attention and anxiety symptoms. In others, it can be activating and may temporarily heighten anxiety. Close monitoring early on is important.
Take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose; do not double up. If you often forget doses, set reminders or ask about a dosing schedule that fits your routine.
No. Capsules should be swallowed whole. The powder can irritate eyes and skin; if a capsule breaks, avoid contact and wash any exposed area with water.
Decreased appetite and modest weight loss can occur, especially early in treatment. Track weight in children and adolescents and discuss any significant changes with your clinician.
Routine labs are not required. Your clinician will typically check blood pressure, heart rate, and weight at visits. Liver tests are needed only if symptoms suggest liver injury.
Duration is individualized based on benefit and goals. There is no physiologic withdrawal, so it can be stopped without a formal taper, but many clinicians reduce gradually to monitor for returning symptoms and side effects.
Occasional light alcohol intake is not strictly contraindicated, but alcohol can worsen dizziness and judgment, and heavy drinking raises liver risks. If you drink, do so sparingly and avoid alcohol when you’re still adjusting to your dose.
Human data are limited. Use only if potential benefits outweigh risks. If you’re planning pregnancy or become pregnant, talk to your prescriber before starting, stopping, or changing the dose to balance ADHD control with safety.
Data are limited; small amounts may enter breast milk. If used, monitor the infant for irritability, poor feeding, or sleep changes. Discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives with your clinician and pediatrician.
Most patients can continue Strattera through routine surgery, but always inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist. They may advise holding the morning dose in selected cases. Avoid making last-minute changes without medical guidance.
Caution is required. Doses should be reduced by about 50% in moderate hepatic impairment and 75% in severe impairment. Avoid use if there is active, serious liver injury. Your clinician may monitor liver function if you have risk factors.
Many people can use it with careful monitoring, but those with severe or unstable cardiovascular disease may need an alternative. Discuss your history; baseline and periodic BP/HR checks are recommended.
Until you know how it affects you, use caution. Strattera can cause sleepiness or dizziness in some people, which can impair driving and reaction time, particularly during the first weeks or after dose changes.
These are strong CYP2D6 inhibitors and can raise atomoxetine levels, increasing side effects. Your prescriber may start with a lower dose, titrate more slowly, and monitor closely. Never combine with an MAOI or use within 14 days of one.
Stimulants like Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) usually have larger effect sizes and work within hours, while Strattera builds gradually over weeks. Strattera is preferred when stimulants aren’t tolerated, are contraindicated, or misuse risk is a concern.
Ritalin is a stimulant with rapid symptom relief and higher response rates; Strattera is a non-stimulant with slower onset but no abuse potential. Side effects differ: methylphenidate commonly suppresses appetite and can cause jitteriness; atomoxetine more often causes GI upset and sleep changes.
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a long-acting stimulant that typically works the first day and is highly effective for many. Strattera takes weeks to reach full effect but avoids stimulant-related risks. Vyvanse often reduces appetite and may raise heart rate; Strattera more commonly causes nausea and fatigue early on.
Both are non-stimulants. Qelbree may show benefits as early as week 1 in some studies; Strattera often takes several weeks. Interaction profiles differ: viloxazine strongly inhibits CYP1A2 (impacting drugs like theophylline and caffeine), while atomoxetine is metabolized by CYP2D6 (affected by fluoxetine/paroxetine). Side effects overlap but Qelbree more often causes somnolence; atomoxetine more often causes GI symptoms.
Intuniv, an alpha-2A agonist, often helps hyperactivity, impulsivity, irritability, and sleep; Strattera tends to improve inattentiveness and overall executive function. Intuniv can cause sedation and low blood pressure; Strattera can cause nausea and insomnia. They can be combined when appropriate.
Kapvay is another alpha-2 agonist, often more sedating and more likely to lower blood pressure than guanfacine. It’s helpful for hyperactivity, tics, and sleep issues. Strattera has less sedation risk and broader cognitive benefits but slower onset. Choice depends on target symptoms and tolerability.
Bupropion (off-label for ADHD) can be a good option when depression coexists, with benefits on mood and attention. It carries a seizure risk (dose- and patient-dependent) and may worsen anxiety or insomnia in some. Strattera is on-label for ADHD, not habit-forming, and may be preferable if anxiety is prominent.
Atomoxetine is the generic for Strattera. The active ingredient and efficacy are equivalent. Some people perceive differences due to inactive ingredients, but most tolerate generics well and save money.
Yes, combinations are sometimes used to extend coverage or target different symptom domains. Common pairings include atomoxetine with a stimulant or with guanfacine/clonidine. Combination therapy requires close monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and side effects.
Modafinil is off-label for ADHD with mixed evidence; it’s usually not a first-choice option. It can cause headaches, insomnia, and, rarely, serious skin reactions. Strattera has robust ADHD data and regulatory approval.
Concerta typically provides 10–12 hours of stimulant effect with once-daily dosing and rapid onset. Strattera provides 24-hour, steady coverage and no rebound, but takes weeks to work. Concerta more often suppresses appetite and can cause jitteriness; Strattera more often causes GI upset or sleep changes early in treatment.
Strattera does not cause physiologic withdrawal; stopping usually just allows ADHD symptoms to return over days to weeks. Stimulants also don’t cause classic withdrawal at prescribed doses but can have same-day “rebound” as they wear off. Plan any changes with your clinician.