Strattera: New Treatment for ADHD

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) affects many people across the nation. Although it is well known for being a child’s disorder, ADHD affects people of all ages. There is no cure for this disorder, but there are many medications to treat it on the market today.

Strattera is among the newest of the medications for treating ADHD. Unlike Adderall XR, Concerta, Focalin, & Ritalin, Strattera is a non-stimulant drug. One may question how Strattera actually works since it isn’t a stimulant. Strattera acts as a potent inhibitor of the presynaptic norepinephrine transporter. This causes more norepinephrine to be available which increases attention & hyperactivity and impulsivity. As with the stimulant drugs, though, it is also still a mystery on how Strattera works exactly.

Strattera benefits adults & children in a number of ways. One benefit in using Strattera is a full day of symptom relief. It provides relief from ADHD symptoms throughout the day and into the evening. There are also continuous symptom improvements when using Strattera. Over the first month of taking it, your system gradually adjusts to Strattera, and it can provide effective ADHD system management. Also, Strattera does not cause insomnia in children and adolescents. Additionally, it is a non-controlled medication and has not shown any potential for abuse.

As with most any medication, there are a few side effect warnings included with the use of Strattera. However, most children who experienced side effects in the clinical studies were not bothered enough to quit taking Strattera. Some side effects include upset stomach, decreased appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, and mood swings.

Six research studies have already been conducted to show how safe & effective Strattera is. Strattera claims to be “the first non-controlled medication that’s FDA-approved to treat ADHD.” It is available by prescription only, so if you are interested in trying Strattera, it is recommended that you ask your doctor if he/she thinks Strattera would be right for you.

References

1. http://pediatrics.about.com “Strattera-A New ADHD Medication”
2. Atomoxetine and methylphenidate treatment in children with ADHD: a prospective, randomized open-label trial.Kratochvil CJ – J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry-01-Jul-2002; 41(7): 776-84.
3. http://strattera.com