HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Atomoxetine (Strattera) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Why It Is Used
Atomoxetine is used to treat Reference attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Opens New Window (ADHD) in children, teens, and adults.
It is sometimes recommended instead of stimulant medicines, such as amphetamine (examples include Adderall or Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (examples include Concerta, Metadate CD, and Ritalin) for people who have bothersome side effects from those medicines.
For example, about 10 to 35 out of 100 people with ADHD also have Reference tics Opens New Window, such as spasms of the muscles of the face (facial tic), clearing the throat, sniffing, and excessive blinking. Stimulant medicines for ADHD may make tics worse. Research has found atomoxetine does not make tics worse.Reference 1
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics |
|
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

