Strattera Review By Dr. Kensington
Important Info For Users
Strattera is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADD or ADHD. It affects the chemicals in the brain that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.
It starts working within a few days to one week, but the full effect may not be evident for a month or two. It helps remain patient as the medication works its way into your system.
Advantages
It works all day thus avoiding avoiding problems of rebound and gaps in coverage. Rebound is the phenomenon where some experience irritability or depression for up to an hour as the drug wears off.
It does not produce a "high" therefore has it low abuse potential. It is not a controlled drug and, unlike other ADHD meds, it may be used safely by those with a history of substance abuse. Read about the potential for abuse here.
Dosage
It comes in 10mg, 18mg, 25mg, 40mg, and 60mg long acting capsules. Typically, the starting dose is 0.5 mg and then gradually increased, usually weekly, from that level. See this free helpful guide to help you find the best dosage.
Side Effects
In children, the most common reported side effects are decreased appetite, stomach upset, and lightheadedness. These side effects may result in a small percentage of those taking the medication.
Stomach upset can often be relieved when the medication is taken with food and dosage times can be adjusted in order to reduce negative symptoms.
In adults, possible side effects include insomnia, sexual side effects, and increased blood pressure. For a more comprehensive overview of side effects click here.
Abuse Potential
Read about the potential for abuse here.
Strattera Warnings
It is not intended for long-term use. Because ADHD may be a long-term condition, especially in children and young adults, doctors may prescribe other ADHD medications.
Long-term use of this medication can stunt growth in children. If your child is not growing or gaining weight properly, inform your doctor immediately. Also, it is not recommended for use in children younger than 6-years-old.
It is vital that you inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: a history of alcohol or drug abuse, glaucoma, heart condition or recent history of a heart attack, high blood pressure, liver disease, mental illness including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, mania or schizophrenia.
Also inform your doctor any motor tics, family history or diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome, overactive thyroid, seizures (convulsions) or abnormal brain scan, an allergy to Focalin or Ritalin, medicine allergies, food allergies, are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
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