1. Attention!
Strattera is a drug that developed because of information that scientists learned about our brains. Norepinephrine is a chemical in our brain that stimulates it and makes us more alert and attentive. This catecholamine also activates our reward system. This means that people with high levels of norepinephrine are better able to set goals and follow through on completing them. People with low levels of norepinephrine might have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or they may be depressed.
2. Sleep Like a Baby
Strattera is the first medicine for ADHD that is not a stimulant. This means that it won't affect a person's ability to sleep or his appetite. Strattera works by limiting the amount of norepinephrine the body reabsorbs back into the cells of the brain. When norepinephrine levels are higher, it is easier for a person with ADHD to concentrate. Because it's not a stimulant, Strattera is not a drug of choice for drug abusers.
3. A Change in Plans
Strattera was originally supposed to be an antidepressant, but scientists discovered that it worked for ADHD. Because norepinephrine has a number of roles in our brain, some doctors are also prescribing it for other conditions like depression, dyslexia and schizoaffective disorder. However, the Food and Drug Administration has only approved it for ADHD in children, adolescents and adults.
4. Start Out Slow
Strattera comes in capsules ranging from 10 mg to 100 mg. Your doctor will decide what dose to prescribe for you. Usually doctors start with a lower dose and go up as needed. You might feel some effects of Strattera right away, but you won't feel the full effects for 3 to 4 weeks. Doctors will usually tell patients to wait a few weeks before deciding whether to continue using the drug. Some people take Strattera once a day and some take it twice; your doctor will work with you to set up a convenient dosing schedule.
5. Things to Watch Our For
The most common problem with Strattera is that it can cause drowsiness, especially in the beginning of treatment. If drowsiness is a problem, take the medication before bedtime. Don't take Strattera on an empty stomach; if you do it can cause stomach problems. Some adult male patients taking Strattera have reported sexual side effects. There is a slight increase in suicide risk for children and teens taking Strattera and in rare cases it has caused liver damage.
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