Atomoxetine

Atomoxetine — Uses and Benefits

Atomoxetine is mainly prescribed for the management of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Helps control symptoms of ADHD such as poor attention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness
• Used in children above a certain age, adolescents and adults as advised by the doctor
• Often used when stimulant medicines are not suitable or not preferred

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the amount of noradrenaline available in the brain
• Improves signal transmission in brain areas that control attention and behaviour
• Unlike stimulant ADHD medicines, it does not have a high potential for misuse

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for weight loss or as an appetite suppressant
• Not used to treat general anxiety or depression
• Not a sedative and not used for sleep problems
• Not a substitute for behavioural therapy or counselling in ADHD management

How to Use Atomoxetine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning or as split doses
• Can be taken with or without food; taking with food may reduce nausea
• Swallow the capsule whole; do not open, chew or crush it
• Effects may take a few weeks to become noticeable, so continue as advised even if improvement is not immediate
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original pack, out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Atomoxetine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Decreased appetite
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping or feeling drowsy
• Stomach upset

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Mood swings or irritability
• Increased heart rate or blood pressure
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Weight loss over time

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicidal feelings, especially in children and teenagers
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat or difficulty breathing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Fainting, chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Severe agitation, hallucinations or unusual behaviour
• Priapism (painful, prolonged erection) in males

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Atomoxetine — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to atomoxetine or any of its ingredients
• Have a serious heart problem or certain heart rhythm disorders
• Have a tumour of the adrenal gland called phaeochromocytoma
• Are currently taking or have recently stopped taking MAO inhibitor medicines
• Have severe high blood pressure or narrow-angle glaucoma (discuss with doctor)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure or fainting spells
• Have liver problems
• Have a history of depression, mood disorder or suicidal thoughts
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Have a history of seizures

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• MAO inhibitors (risk of serious reaction)
• Certain antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Blood pressure medicines
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm
• CYP2D6 inhibitor drugs which can raise atomoxetine levels

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this medicine a stimulant like other ADHD drugs?

No, atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medicine and works differently from stimulant ADHD medicines.

How long does it take to work?

It may take several weeks of regular use before full benefits are noticed, so do not stop early without consulting your doctor.

Can adults take this medicine?

• Yes, it can be prescribed for adults with ADHD, but only under a doctor's guidance and monitoring.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.