About atomoxetine hydrochloride
Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
Used for
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Usual adult dose
Usually 40 mg daily initially, increasing to 80 mg daily; maximum 100 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
For children weighing up to 70 kg: usually 0.5 mg/kg daily initially, increasing to about 1.2 mg/kg daily. For heavier children, adult dosing is used.
Common side effects
- Reduced appetite, nausea, or stomach pain
- Tiredness or sleep problems
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Mood changes or sexual side effects
Important warnings
- May increase suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents, especially early in treatment.
- Rarely causes severe liver injury; seek urgent assessment for yellow skin or dark urine.
- Can raise heart rate and blood pressure; caution with heart problems.
- Do not use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or in narrow-angle glaucoma.
Pregnancy
Use only when the expected benefit outweighs potential risks; discuss treatment with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; a healthcare professional can help weigh treatment benefits and possible infant risks.
Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: dangerous interaction; avoid concurrent use.
- Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine can increase atomoxetine exposure.
- Other medicines that raise blood pressure or heart rate may increase these effects.
- Albuterol and similar medicines may increase cardiovascular effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.