Atomoxetine is a prescription medication used to manage certain symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults.

This medication is prescribed alongside other forms of medication and therapy to help manage ADHD. It is important to note that atomoxetine is not a cure for ADHD. Instead, it helps reduce certain symptoms (such as restlessness and inattention) and increases the ability to pay attention.

Atomoxetine is prescribed along with other forms of therapy to manage symptoms caused by attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that can cause several persistent problems, such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. While ADHD cannot be cured, it can be managed through prescription medication and social, educational, and psychological therapy programs.

Atomoxetine belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which help block the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine by our brain cells. Norepinephrine, specifically, is a naturally occurring chemical messenger (called neurotransmitters) that is responsible for regulating your behavior and aiding attention. Neurotransmitters send signals between your brain and neurons in the body. Once a signal has been sent, the neuron reabsorbs the serotonin and norepinephrine to be recycled.

Reducing the brain’s reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine increases these behavior-controlling neurotransmitters’ levels, which can reduce restlessness and improve focus.

Atomoxetine has been shown to cause some side effects. If these reactions do not go away within a few days or become severe, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects reported while taking atomoxetine include:

• Heartburn
  
• Dizziness
  
• Nausea
  
• Lightheadedness
  
• Confusion
  
• Sweating
  
• Fatigue and weakness
  
• Diarrhea/ constipation
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions. If you experience blurry vision, hives, fainting, skin rash, or changes in your heart rate while taking atomoxetine, seek medical attention immediately.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with atomoxetine. Atomoxetine can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. Before starting treatment with atomoxetine, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.

Atomoxetine is commonly prescribed as an oral tablet to be taken once a day. The exact dosage may vary depending on your age and weight.

For adults and children over 6 years old: 40 mg is prescribed as the preliminary dosage to be taken once daily. You should take this dose in the morning for at least 3 days. Your doctor may increase the dosage up to 80 mg per day, to be taken either all at once (in the morning) or divided into two 40 mg doses (to be taken in the morning and late afternoon).

Do not increase your dosage or discontinue the use of atomoxetine unless ordered to do so by your doctor. If you experience any adverse reactions, get in touch with a health care provider. Your dosage may be increased or decreased depending on how well you are tolerating the medication.

Atomoxetine is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not atomoxetine is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for atomoxetine to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.