Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder:
Nonstimulant Therapy (Strattera) and Other ADHD Drugs
There are many drugs other than psychostimulants that can be used to treat ADHD.
Nonstimulant Therapy
Strattera is the first nonstimulant approved for treatment of ADHD. It is also the only drug approved to treat adult ADHD.
Strattera works on the neurotransmitter (chemical in the brain that transmits nerve impulses) called norepinephrine. Like the
stimulant drugs , Strattera is effective in treating and controlling ADHD symptoms , but it is not a controlled substance and
people are less likely to abuse the drug or become dependant on it.
In addition, Strattera doesn't cause many of the potential side effects linked to psychostimulants, such as sleeplessness.
Overall, the drug is well tolerated with minimal side effects.
How Does Strattera Work?
This medication works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine, an important brain chemical, in the brain. Doing this
appears to help ADHD by increasing attention span and reducing impulsive behavior and hyperactivity.
What Are the Side Effects of Strattera?
The most common side effects seen with Strattera are:
- Upset stomach
- Decreased appetite, which may cause weight loss
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
Generally, these side effects are not severe, and only a very small percentage of clinical trial participants stopped
Strattera due to side effects.
There have been reports of slightly decreased growth in children and teens.
It is recommended that children and adolescents be observed, measured and weighed periodically while on Strattera.
Allergic reactions to Strattera are rare but do occur, usually as swelling or
hives. The prescribing doctor or other health care professional should be advised immediately if anyone taking Strattera
develops a skin rash, swelling, hives or other allergic symptoms.
On Dec. 17, 2004, Eli Lilly, the makers of Strattera, added a warning to the drug noting Strattera should be stopped in patients
with signs of jaundice -- yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes.
Jaundice is a sign of liver damage. If blood tests show evidence of liver damage, the drug should also be stopped.
Who Shouldn't Take Straterra?
There are certain situations in which a person should not take Strattera. If you or your child has any of the following
conditions, you should discuss them with your health care provider before taking Strattera:
- Narrow angle glaucoma (a condition causing increased pressure in the eyes
and can lead to blindness).
- Treatment with a type of antidepressant called monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as Nardil or Parnate, within 14 days of
starting Strattera.
Straterra: Tips and Precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor:
- If you are nursing, pregnant, or plan to become pregnant
- If you are taking or plan to take any dietary supplements, herbal medicines or nonprescription medications
- If you have any past or present medical problems, including high blood
pressure, seizures, heart disease, glaucoma or liver or kidney disease
- If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or dependency or if you have had mental health problems, including
depression, manic depression, or psychosis.
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