Starting Strattera (atomoxetine)? Good to know what might happen. This is not a steroid or stimulant — it works differently — but it still causes side effects for some people. Below I’ll list the common complaints, the rare but serious problems to watch for, and simple tricks to make things easier while you adjust.
Nausea and upset stomach are the most common early issues. Try taking Strattera with a small meal to reduce that. Decreased appetite is also frequent — kids can lose weight, so track weight and growth if a child is taking it. Other common reactions include dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, trouble sleeping, tiredness, and headache. These often improve after a few weeks as your body adjusts.
Some people notice a faster heart rate or a small rise in blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or fainting spells, mention that before starting Strattera so your doctor can monitor you.
There are a few rare but important problems to know about. In children and teens, atomoxetine carries a warning about increased risk of suicidal thoughts. Watch for new or worsening mood changes, sudden anger, or talk about harming themselves — contact a doctor right away if that happens. Severe liver injury is rare but serious; symptoms include dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, and persistent stomach pain. Stop the drug and seek medical help if these appear.
Other rare issues: allergic reactions (rash, swelling, trouble breathing), urinary retention, and priapism (a prolonged painful erection) — priapism is a medical emergency, get immediate care.
A few practical tips: avoid starting Strattera within two weeks of an MAOI medication. Some antidepressants that block CYP2D6 (like paroxetine or fluoxetine) can raise atomoxetine levels, so your doctor may adjust your dose. Give the drug several weeks (often 4–6) to show full benefit; it’s not instant like stimulant ADHD meds.
If side effects are mild, your doctor might suggest a lower starting dose or changing the time you take the pill (morning if it causes insomnia, evening if it causes tiredness). For dry mouth, sip water and chew sugar-free gum. For constipation, add fiber and drink more fluids. If appetite falls, offer small, nutrient-dense meals, and keep an eye on weight in children.
When to call your doctor: chest pain, fainting, very fast heart rate, signs of liver trouble, severe mood changes, suicidal thoughts, severe allergic reaction, or priapism. If side effects make daily life hard, don’t stop the medication on your own — contact your prescriber. They can adjust the dose or suggest an alternative.
Strattera helps many people with ADHD, but like any drug it has trade-offs. Knowing what to expect and when to act makes the process safer and less stressful.
Mar, 8 2025
Discover the ins and outs of Strattera, a medication primarily used for ADHD. Learn about its medical uses, potential side effects, and how it interacts with other drugs. This article also covers common dosages, recommendations, and some surprising facts about this widely-used treatment.
