Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers may prescribe other medications or recommend non-pharmacological treatment based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs. Read more
Strattera has a
Highlights
- Strattera (atomoxetine) is approved to help treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Strattera may also be used off-label to help treat certain anxiety-related symptoms. However, it is not FDA-approved for anxiety.
- Strattera comes with certain side effects and risks. Specifically, it can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and adolescents with ADHD.
- If you are considering medications to treat anxiety-related symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider to learn more about options that are right for you.
Anxiety is the most commonly reported mental health condition among adults in the United States. It is also one of the
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Zoloft (sertraline) and Cymbalta (duloxetine), are common treatment options for anxiety. However, Strattera (atomoxetine) may also be used off-label to help with certain anxiety-related symptoms, including difficulty concentrating, in some people.
What Is Strattera?
Strattera, also known by its generic name atomoxetine, is
Unlike some ADHD medications, Strattera hasn’t consistently shown to cause dependence in
Does Strattera Calm You Down?
It’s unknown if Strattera has a calming effect. In
However, each person responds differently to Strattera, and side effects can vary. So, for others, Strattera may help with certain anxiety-related symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating. Trouble focusing is also a
An “off-label” use means that the medication is not officially approved to treat that specific condition. The FDA has approved it for treating other conditions, but healthcare providers can prescribe it off-label if it has shown promise through research and clinical use.
How Can Strattera Help With Anxiety-Related Symptoms?
Strattera works by
Does Strattera Improve Mood?
It’s unknown if Strattera can directly improve mood; in contrast, feelings of depression and mood swings
What Is the Strattera Dosage for Adults With Anxiety?
Information isn’t available regarding the recommended Strattera dosage for anxiety treatment in adults. This is because
If you are considering Strattera for treating certain anxiety-related symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, talk with your healthcare provider first. At MEDvidi, you can get help for anxiety online within 24 hours. A licensed healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and determine the most suitable treatment plan to manage your symptoms and condition.
Strattera Side Effects
Similar to other medications, Strattera may cause some side effects, whether it’s been prescribed for ADHD or anxiety. These side effects may be mild or serious. The following lists highlight some of the reported side effects, which should be considered before starting Strattera. Note that these lists do not include all possible Strattera side effects.
Mild Side Effects
Commonly
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tiredness
- Appetite changes
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sexual side effects
Because Strattera may cause tiredness, it may affect your ability to operate heavy machinery. Be careful to avoid these activities until you know how the medication affects you.
In general, these mild side effects typically improve within days or a few weeks. However, if they are bothersome, don’t go away, or worsen, talk with your provider right away.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects
- Serious liver problems
- Priapism (a painful and long-lasting penile erection)
- Problems passing urine
- Slowed growth (height or weight) in children
- Serious allergic reactions
- Heart-related problems, including:
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Sudden death in people with heart problems
- Sudden death, stroke, and heart attack in adults
- Mood problems, including
- Hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that aren’t real)
- Delusions (believing things that aren’t true)
- Hostile or aggressive behavior
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and adolescents with ADHD (boxed warning)
If you’re experiencing suicidal or self-harming thoughts and require immediate assistance, contact a crisis hotline, such as 911, 988 suicide & crisis lifeline (toll-free), or Samaritans (116-123 or via chat).
If you are experiencing serious side effects from taking Strattera, talk with your provider right away. If the side effects are life-threatening or you think it’s a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Strattera Drug Interactions
Strattera may interact with certain medications, producing unwanted side effects. The following lists show medications that can interact with Strattera. Note that this list doesn’t include all possible interactions.
Medications that can interact with Strattera
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including Emsam (selegiline)
- Medications that affect blood pressure
- Albuterol containing medications like ProAir HFA
- Medications that affect Strattera breakdown in the body, including Paxil (paroxetine)
Before starting Strattera, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking. These include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and recreational substances. They can determine whether Strattera interacts with your current medications.
What Is the Best Time to Take Atomoxetine?
Strattera may be taken any time of day with or without food. Your healthcare provider can help determine the dosing schedule that’s right for you. Note that
For people who experience drowsiness or tiredness with Strattera treatment, taking the medication at night may be preferred. Nighttime dosing of Strattera may reduce any daytime drowsiness or tiredness you may experience.
Summary
Strattera has been proven effective and is commonly prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In some cases, Strattera may also be used off-label to help improve certain ADHD symptoms that people with anxiety also experience, such as difficulty concentrating.
The medication also comes with several serious risks that should be considered before starting treatment, especially for off-label use. If you are considering medications for treatment of anxiety-related symptoms, consult a licensed healthcare provider at MEDvidi to learn about options that are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does Strattera take to work for anxiety?
Information and studies on the use of Strattera for anxiety isn’t available. Strattera has only been studied in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Does atomoxetine help with depression?
Atomoxetine likely doesn’t improve symptoms of depression. Depression was actually a
Will Strattera help with social anxiety?
Information isn’t available on whether Stattera is a safe or effective option for treating social anxiety. Strattera was only
Can atomoxetine cause anxiety?
Yes. Anxiety was a
Why do I feel so good on Strattera?
Strattera can help you feel good by decreasing symptoms of impulsiveness, inability to concentrate, and hyperactivity. Strattera works by
