Friday, June 01, 2012
Monday, October 20, 2008 Linda asks

Q: what are strattera use for. does it cause weight loss?

Does strattera cause weight loss?

Is this a new drug use for depression?

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Answers (3)
Dr. Diana L Walcutt, Health Guide
10/20/08 10:10pm

Hi Linda:

Strattera is not a terribly new drug, it came out several years ago as an alternative treatment for attention deficit and impulse control issues. It is not a stimulant, so both doctors and parents are hopeful that they can use this for their ADD children.

While doctors may use it "off label" that is, without approval of the FDA or drug companies for depression, that is not the primary use.

 

It is a SNRI, that is, selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and your typical antidepressants focus on serotonin and/or norepinephrine, not just that latter.
That being said, weight changes are not listed in the side effects.

 

Regards,

Dr. Diana Walcutt

 

*Dr. Walcutt is a Psychologist. Dr. Walcutt's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.

 

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10/23/08 11:25pm

My son takes it for ADHD and yes you can loose weight from it suppresses your appetite.

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4/15/09 3:00pm

 Actually weight loss is one of the listed side effects with strattera.  I have recently started this medication and read the insert and research very carefully.  Just thought I would correct the above. thanks

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By Linda— Last Modified: 04/24/11, First Published: 10/20/08