Prior to being prescribed Strattera, the patient must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional with ADD or ADHD. He may be characterized as being inattentive, impulsive, extremely active, restless, and fidgety. He may be hyperactive, talkative, and intrusive, and may have difficulty paying attention and forget things easily.
The disorder must have persistent symptoms that cause impairment in the home, school, or social spheres before Strattera would be prescribed.
Recommendations for Usage
Strattera is typically taken once or twice a day and its dosage may be adjusted until the patient notices improvement. While some symptoms may improve immediately, the drug takes 2-3 weeks to properly adjust itself in the body and to maximize benefits.
As with any medication, Strattera is recommended for ADD in conjunction with other measures, such as psychological or behavioral treatment, educational assistance, and proper discipline in the home.
Common Side Effects
The more common side effects of taking Strattera are:
- Upset stomach
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Sexual dysfunction
Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts
According to RX, at least 4 out of every 1000 children and teenaged patients developed suicidal thoughts following the use of Strattera. Adults were not found to have the same risk. In less than three years on the market, 10,988 adverse “psychiatric reactions” were reported to the drug manufacturer.
Parents whose children or teenagers use Strattera need to be diligent about monitoring any behavioral or mood changes. Any suicidal thoughts or sudden mood swings should be reported immediately to the child’s doctor. Changes may be abrupt and severe and should result in a discontinuation of the medication or an adjustment of the dosage.
Patients with previous psychological problems or a history of bipolar illness (manic-depressive disorder) should not take Strattera.
Liver Abnormalities
Strattera, in rare cases, has been found to cause liver injury. Patients should report any abdominal pain, yellow skin or eyes, all-over body itching, or flu-like symptoms to their doctor immediately. Patients should undergo frequent blood tests to measure liver functions.
Patients with Previous Heart Conditions
Patients who have any heart defects, high blood pressure, or a family history of either should not take Strattera. If they do take the drug, they should immediately report any signs of chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath. Patients with previous heart conditions may be at risk for death by taking Strattera.
While many patients respond positively to the use of Strattera to treat ADD or ADHD, caution must be taken to ensure that they do not suffer any adverse reactions from the drug. Careful monitoring by both a trusted physician and family members can make certain that patients do not experience psychiatric difficulties, liver abnormalities, or heart problems.
Abby Deliz - Abby Deliz pursued writing extensively through high school and college, and she was published several times. Most notably, she published ...
