Non-stimulant — selective NRI
Strattera
Atomoxetine
Non-controlled FDA approved adults
Pediatric ages 6+
How it works
Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. No direct dopamine action in striatum.
At-a-glance
- Onset of effect
- 168–672 h
- Typical duration of effect
- 24 h
- Half-life
- ~5 (extensive metabolizers); ~24 (poor metabolizers — CYP2D6)
- Formulations
- Oral capsule
- Adult dose range
- 40–100 mg/day (start 40 mg)
FDA max: 100 mg/day - Pediatric dose range
- 0.5 mg/kg titrating to 1.2 mg/kg/day, max 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Insomnia or somnolence
- Decreased libido (adults)
Important warnings
- Boxed warning: increased suicidal ideation in pediatric patients
- Rare hepatotoxicity — discontinue if liver enzymes elevate
- Caution with narrow-angle glaucoma
Notes
No abuse potential; not a controlled substance. Full effect takes 4–8 weeks. Once-daily or split BID dosing acceptable.
Source
Reference data is sourced from the current FDA prescribing information at DailyMed. Dose ranges, approved ages, and warnings change over time — always check the current label and consult your prescriber.