If you take medication for ADHD symptoms, chances are you use a stimulant medication such as Adderall, Ritalin or Concerta. These types of medication are effective in reducing hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention but for many people, these medications are not an option. Side effects, such as insomnia, loss of appetite and irritability, stop them from using stimulants. Other problems are the increased risk of cardiovascular problems or interference with other medical conditions or medication.

Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA to treat ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents and adults. For some, this medication has proven to be effective, others find it is not effective at all. Just as with stimulants, Strattera also has side effects that prevent some from taking it. As with all medications, you will need to weigh the pros and cons of the medication and discuss all your treatment options with your doctor.

The Benefits of Strattera

Stimulant medications are Title II medications, meaning they have a high potential for abuse. Your doctor must write a prescription every month and you must present the written prescription to the pharmacy; your doctor cannot call in the medication, making it inconvenient for many. Since Strattera is not a Title II medication, you can receive a prescription for longer than 30 days and your doctor is able to call the pharmacy to fill or refill your prescription, saving you a trip to your doctor's office each month.

Strattera is not considered to be addictive and does not have "abuse potential." Because the full effect of Strattera can take up to three to four weeks (which is also listed as a disadvantage later in the post) and it does not give a euphoric feeling, it is not used to get high. For adolescents and adults who are prone to substance abuse or addiction, this medication might be a better alternative than stimulant medications.

The medication, when taken as directed, provides 24 hour relief from symptoms of ADHD. That means, as a parent, your child will be able to complete homework in the evening without taking additional information and mornings might not turn into a daily power struggle because the medication is still working.

Strattera appears to have some antidepressant properties and can help those who have symptoms of depression as well as symptoms of ADHD. When taking stimulant medications, those with depressive symptoms may need to add a second medication, with Strattera that may not be needed.

This medication is often a better choice for those with Tourette's syndrome and ADHD because Strattera does not increase or aggravate tics. It also causes some urinary retention, which in some people may cause a problem but for those children with nocturnal enuresis (bed wetting), Strattera can help. Although you shouldn't use Strattera specifically for this reason, it may be an added benefit for children struggling with bed wetting.

Disadvantages

As with all medications, Strattera does have side effects. As with antidepressants, your prescription comes with a warning about a potential for suicide when on this medication. The warning indicates that children and teens may have suicidal thoughts while taking this medication. Other side effects for children and teens include: