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What is Strattera?
Strattera is the brand name for atomoxetine, a prescription medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unlike traditional ADHD medications like Adderall or Ritalin, Strattera is not a stimulant and isn’t classified as a controlled substance. This makes it a popular option for people who want consistent symptom management without the risks of misuse, dependence, or daily crashes.
Strattera is FDA-approved for ADHD in children over six, teens, and adults. It's often chosen when someone can’t tolerate stimulants, has a history of substance use, or needs all-day coverage without the peaks and valleys. Some adults are also prescribed Strattera if they were never diagnosed in childhood but now struggle with focus, time blindness, or task initiation in work and home life.
The full effect isn’t immediate — Strattera builds up over time. Many users don’t feel a “kick” like with stimulants, but rather a gradual shift in clarity, reduced distraction, and better follow-through.
How It Works
Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI). It increases the amount of norepinephrine available in the brain by preventing its reabsorption into nerve cells. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter involved in attention, focus, and emotional regulation — areas often disrupted in people with ADHD.
Unlike stimulants, which act on dopamine and norepinephrine and have a rapid onset, Strattera’s effect develops slowly over days or weeks. Because it’s not stimulating the central nervous system directly, it doesn't produce the highs, crashes, or hyperfocus some people experience with stimulant meds.
That steady, non-habit-forming profile is why some people prefer to buy Strattera online through licensed refill services. It's also why it’s commonly used in kids or teens with a history of tics, anxiety, or sensitivity to stimulant side effects.
Dosage & How to Take
Strattera dosing is based on body weight for children and teens, and fixed doses for adults. It’s usually taken once daily in the morning, but some people split the dose into morning and late afternoon to reduce side effects like nausea or sleep disruption.
- Children and teens (up to 70 kg): Start with 0.5 mg/kg/day → increase after 3+ days to 1.2 mg/kg/day
- Teens and adults (over 70 kg): Start with 40 mg/day → increase to 80–100 mg/day as tolerated
It’s important to take Strattera consistently at the same time daily. Swallow capsules whole — do not crush or open them, as they can irritate the eyes or skin. Some people need 4–6 weeks to feel the full benefit, so patience is part of the treatment plan.
When using online prescription services, check if they carry the full range of dosages. Generic atomoxetine is often available at cheap monthly rates, but always confirm the dosage matches your provider’s instructions before you buy.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate Strattera well, especially after the first week or two. The most common side effects include:
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue or drowsiness (especially at the start)
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
For many users, these side effects fade with time or dose adjustment. Taking the capsule with food (even a small snack) often helps with nausea. Switching to split dosing may also reduce fatigue.
Less common but serious effects can include liver problems (rare), suicidal thoughts (particularly in younger patients), or sexual side effects in adults. Your provider will monitor closely during the first few weeks — especially in teens or anyone with a history of mood concerns.
If you experience mood swings, intense irritability, or anything that feels off, don’t hesitate to report it. These conversations help tailor the treatment plan and are especially important during adolescence or periods of stress.
Warnings & Interactions
Before starting Strattera, your doctor will ask about your mental health history, sleep patterns, and any heart or liver conditions. Strattera is not appropriate for people with narrow-angle glaucoma, pheochromocytoma, or severe cardiac abnormalities.
It may interact with the following:
- MAO inhibitors: Never combine — dangerous interaction
- Antidepressants: May increase side effect risk (e.g., SSRIs like fluoxetine)
- Asthma or allergy meds: Some decongestants can raise blood pressure
- Heart meds: Monitoring may be needed in certain arrhythmias or BP conditions
Let your provider know if you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding. Strattera hasn’t shown major harm in pregnancy, but isn’t typically first choice for that period. Teens and young adults starting Strattera need to be monitored for any signs of worsening mood or irritability — especially in the first month.
Buying Strattera online can be convenient, but it’s crucial to stay within licensed platforms that require a valid prescription. Controlled follow-up is key — not just at the beginning, but for ongoing dose optimization. ADHD evolves with life phases, and your medication plan should evolve with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some people notice changes in focus or irritability within a week, but it often takes 3 to 6 weeks to see full improvement. Strattera builds up gradually, unlike stimulants.
No — Strattera is a non-stimulant and isn’t classified as a controlled substance. It works differently and doesn’t carry the same risks of misuse or crashes.
Yes, especially if it causes drowsiness. Some people take it in the evening or split the dose between morning and late afternoon. Follow your provider’s guidance.
It’s not approved for anxiety, but some people with ADHD find their anxiety improves as focus and overwhelm decrease. Others may feel more anxious at first. It depends on the person.
Just take it when you remember — unless it's close to the next dose. Don’t double up. Missing one day won’t cause withdrawal, but try to stay consistent for best results.
Yes — if you have a valid prescription, many licensed online pharmacies offer atomoxetine at affordable prices. Always check that the pharmacy is accredited and offers pharmacist support.
Strattera is FDA-approved for kids age 6 and older. Dosing is weight-based in younger children, and close monitoring helps adjust as they grow.
Yes — and doing so often helps reduce nausea. It can be taken with or without food, depending on your comfort and provider’s recommendation.
It can. Some people feel drowsy, while others feel more alert. Timing the dose earlier in the day or splitting it may help if sleep issues arise.
Strattera works more gradually, without the immediate 'boost' of stimulants. It doesn’t increase dopamine the same way and is less likely to cause jitteriness or appetite loss.
Medical Disclaimer
This website provides informational overviews of medications and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.
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This page was last medically reviewed: August 2025
All guidance is based on clinical data from the American Psychiatric Association and FDA-approved usage. Always follow individual medical advice.