If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, Strattera may be a viable treatment option. This drug has been shown to help improve focus and concentration in individuals with ADHD. In this guide, we will discuss the drug’s uses, dosage, and side effects. We hope that this information will help you make an informed decision about whether Strattera is the right medication for you or your loved one.
Contents
- 1 What Is Strattera?
- 2 What Does Strattera Treat?
- 3 Working of Strattera
- 4 Dosage and Administration
- 5 Is Strattera Effective?
- 6 Tips To Keep In Mind While Taking Strattera
- 7 Benefits of Strattera
- 8 Side-Effects of Strattera
- 9 How To Manage Side-Effects of Strattera?
- 10 Alternatives of Strattera
- 11 FAQs For Strattera
- 12 Conclusion
- 13 A Word From Therapy Mantra
What Is Strattera?
Strattera is a medication that helps with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is a non-stimulant medication that works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. This medication is also a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).
It also gives the person taking it a feeling of calmness. This medication is one of the best medications for ADHD and it also helps to treat depression.
What Does Strattera Treat?
Strattera treats a number of disorders. Some of these disorders are:
Anxiety
Strattera is a medication that generally helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety by affecting the chemicals in the brain that are linked to hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It may also give some relief from stress and promote a more positive mood.
Depression
There is evidence that Strattera may be an effective treatment for depression, especially in adolescents. It is not clear how the medication achieves this effect, but it is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. It may also help to relieve some of the symptoms of depression, such as low energy levels and feelings of worthlessness.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Strattera is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. It works by increasing levels of norepinephrine in the brain, which helps to improve attention span and focus. It can be helpful for both children and adults who have ADHD. This medication can also give a boost to productivity and improve academic performance.
Bipolar Disorder
There is some evidence that Strattera may be helpful in stabilizing moods for people with bipolar disorder. It is not clear how the medication works, but it is thought to help by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It makes sense that Strattera would be helpful for bipolar disorder because it is also an effective treatment for ADHD and depression.
Addiction
This medication also helps to treat addiction. Strattera helps to reduce cravings and the urge to use drugs. It also helps to improve focus and attention so that people who are trying to recover from addiction can better resist temptation. It also gives people more energy and motivation to stick with their treatment plan.
Substance Abuse
Sometimes Strattera helps to wean people off of drugs they are addicted to. It does this by helping to improve focus and attention so that people who are trying to recover from addiction can better resist temptation. These also give people more energy and motivation to stick with their treatment plan. It may also help to alleviate some of the symptoms of addiction, such as anxiety and depression.
Working of Strattera
The working of Strattera is still unknown but it is speculated that the drug influences the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. It is also believed to have an impact on the blood vessels in the brain.
It also works by giving a calming effect on the brain and is also used to improve thinking abilities. After this, it was also prescribed for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents.
Dosage and Administration
The dosage of Strattera may vary depending on individual needs. However, it is usually started at a low dose and then gradually increased as needed. The drug should be taken once or twice daily with food.
For adults, the dose that the doctor recommends is usually between 40-100 mg per day. For children and adolescents, the dose is usually starting from 0.05 to 0.60 mg/kg/day given in two divided doses with food. This drug is administrated by mouth with or without food.
Is Strattera Effective?
The effectiveness of Strattera has been widely debated. While some people swear by the drug, others claim that it doesn’t work for them.
Some reports suggest that there are about 50% of people see a good response to Strattera, while the other half either see no change or experience negative side effects.
However, some people are there that do not see any good response from the drug. So, it is still unclear whether the drug works for everyone.
Strattera may not be suitable for people with anxiety or depression. The drug can also worsen these conditions in some cases. If you have anxiety or depression, talk to your doctor before taking Strattera.
Strattera may also not be suitable for people who have a history of suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts. If you have a history of suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts, talk to your doctor before taking Strattera.
Tips To Keep In Mind While Taking Strattera
There are many tips that you should keep in mind while taking Strattera.
Take Medicine s Prescribed
You should always take the medicine that is prescribed to you by your doctor. Sometimes one should have an increase or decrease in the dosage, but it is best to follow what your doctor tells you.
Report Side Effects
If you are experiencing any side effects, then be sure to report them to your doctor right away. This will help them better understand how the drug is working for you and whether or not adjustments need to be made.
Stay On Top Of Your Mental Health
Maintaining good mental health is important while taking Strattera. Make sure that you continue seeing your therapist and/or counselor if needed and take any medication prescribed to you as directed.
Alert Family And Friends
Make sure that your family and friends know about the drug and its potential side effects so that they can keep an eye out for anything unusual. Sometimes there are also warning signs that only those close to us would pick up on.
Be Patient
It can take some time for the drug to start working. Be patient and give it a few weeks before making any decisions about whether or not it is effective. These may be difficult times, but hang in there!
Do Not Skip Doses
It is important that you do not skip doses of Strattera. These doses also give your doctor an idea of how the drug is working for you. It may have an impact on how well it works if you do skip doses.
Avoid Alcohol
You should always avoid alcohol while taking Strattera. Alcohol can make the side effects of the drug worse and it can also impact how well it works. It may have an impact on your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Store Strattera Safely
Keep Strattera in a safe place where children or others who may not know about the medication cannot get to it. This includes keeping it locked up and out of reach. It can also have an expiration date, so be sure to check on that period as well.
These are just a few things to keep in mind while taking Strattera. Be sure to speak with your doctor about any concerns or questions that you may have. They will be able to provide you with the best advice and guidance specific to your situation.
Benefits of Strattera
There are many benefits of taking Strattera, such as:
Helps To Treat ADHD
Strattera is approved by the FDA to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. The drug works by increasing levels of norepinephrine in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate attention and impulsivity.
May Improve Concentration and Focus
In addition to treating ADHD, Strattera has also been shown to improve concentration and focus in people who don’t have ADHD. This effect is thought to be due to the increase in norepinephrine levels caused by the drug.
Can Help To Reduce Anxiety
Strattera can also help reduce anxiety in both children and adults. This effect is likely due to calming effect of norepinephrine on the brain. It may also help to improve sleep quality.
May Improve Mood
Strattera may also improve mood in people with ADHD and anxiety. This effect is thought to be due to the increase in norepinephrine levels, which has been shown to have a positive effect on mood.
Helps To Treat Depression
In addition to ADHD and anxiety, Strattera may also be used to treat depression in adults. This is due to the fact that Strattera increases levels of norepinephrine, which has been shown to be effective in treating depression. It may also have a positive effect on sleep quality.
Side-Effects of Strattera
Dry mouth is one of the most common side-effects of using Strattera. This can lead to difficulty swallowing and an increased risk of cavities. To combat this, it is important to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary snacks or drinks.
Anxiety
Some people may experience anxiety while taking Strattera. If this occurs, it is important to speak with a doctor about how to manage the anxiety. Often, adjusting the dosage or taking Strattera at a different time of day can help lessen the anxiety side-effect.
Sexual Side-Effects
Sexual side-effects are also common with Strattera use. These include decreased libido, difficulties achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. If these side effects persist, it is important to speak with a doctor about adjusting the dosage or changing to a different medication.
Weight Loss
Strattera can also cause weight loss in some people. This side-effect is usually mild and does not require medical treatment. However, if someone experiences significant weight loss while taking Strattera, they should speak with a doctor. Over time there can be a decrease in weight.
Headaches
Headaches are another common side-effect of using Strattera. If someone experiences frequent or severe headaches while taking the medication, they should speak with a doctor. Often, adjusting the dosage or taking Strattera at a different time of day can help lessen the headache side-effect.
Dizziness
Dizziness is another sign that may indicate that you have taken a higher dose of Strattera than is recommended. If you feel dizzy after taking Strattera, sit or lie down and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drive or operate machinery until the dizziness has passed.
Insomnia
Insomnia is another possible side-effect of Strattera. If you have difficulty sleeping while taking the medication, speak with your doctor about possible solutions. Taking Strattera at a different time of day or using a lower dosage may help lessen this side effect. There can be an improvement in sleep with continued treatment.
Nausea
Some people may experience nausea while taking Strattera. If this occurs, it is important to speak with a doctor about how to manage nausea. Often, adjusting the dosage or taking Strattera at a different time of day can help lessen the nausea side-effect.
Irritability
Irritability is another possible side effect of Strattera. If someone experiences increased irritability while taking Strattera, they should speak with their doctor about how to manage it. Adjusting the dosage or changing to a different medication may help lessen this side effect.
Tiredness
Tiredness is another common side-effect of Strattera. This usually resolves over time, but if it persists, speak with your doctor about adjusting the dosage or changing to a different medication. It may be helpful to take a break from Strattera every few months.
How To Manage Side-Effects of Strattera?
There are many ways to manage the side effects of Strattera. Some people find that they need to take breaks from the medication in order to allow their bodies to adjust. Others find that they need to increase or decrease their dosage in order to manage side effects.
Some people find that certain foods help to ease some of the side effects. For example, eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary drinks can help with problems such as weight loss or lack of energy. Other people find that supplements such as omega-fatty acids can help to reduce problems such as dry mouth or constipation.
Many people have trouble with side effects when they first start taking Strattera. It is important to be patient and to work with your doctor to find the best way to manage them. If you are not seeing any improvement after a few weeks, be sure to talk to your doctor about it.
There are many ways that people have found helpful in managing the side effects of Strattera. Some people find that they need time off from the medication in order for their body to adjust.
If you are having trouble managing the side effects of Strattera, be sure to talk to your doctor. They will be able to help you find the best way to manage them. There is no one size fits all solution, so it is important to find what works best for you. Be sure to stay patient and keep trying different things until you find something that works well for you. Do not give up. Side effects can be difficult to manage, but there are many ways to do it.
Alternatives of Strattera
There are many alternatives of Strattera that are available in the market and have fewer side effects. Some of these alternatives are as follows:
Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
This medication can also treat ADHD and is available in both tablet and liquid form. It comes with a number of potential side effects such as headaches, stomach aches, and nausea. These also have addiction potential. It may also cause psychotic symptoms in some people.
Amphetamines (Adderall)
This medication also alters the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain that help increase focus and attention. Adderall is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Concerta
Concerta is another ADHD medication. It is a long-acting form of methylphenidate, which is similar to Ritalin. Concerta comes in tablet form and one should take it once a day. The dosage range for Concerta is 18 to 54 milligrams per day. Like Strattera, Concerta can cause side effects such as headaches, stomachaches, and mood swings.
Ritalin
Ritalin is the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication. It is a short-acting form of methylphenidate, which is similar to Concerta. Ritalin comes in pill form and is taken four times a day. The dosage range for Ritalin is 20 to 60 milligrams per day. Ritalin can also cause side effects such as headaches, stomachaches, and mood swings. It may also cause weight loss.
Vyvanse
Vyvanse is another ADHD medication. It is a lisdexamfetamine, which is similar to Adderall. Vyvanse comes in capsule form and is taken once a day. The dosage range for Vyvanse is 30 to 70 milligrams per day. Vyvanse can also cause side effects such as headaches, stomachaches, and mood swings. It may also cause weight loss or insomnia.
FAQs For Strattera
There are many faqs for Strattera. Here are some of the top questions people have about this drug:
Q: What is Strattera?
A: Strattera is a medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a central nervous system stimulant.
Q: How does Strattera work?
A: The exact mechanism of action for Strattera is unknown, but it is thought to work by increasing levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This helps to improve focus and concentration.
Q: Who should take Strattera?
A: Strattera is FDA-approved for children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD. It can be used alone or in combination with other ADHD medications.
Q: What are the side effects of Strattera?
A: The most common side effects of Strattera include dry mouth, headache, stomachache, and dizziness. Some people may also experience weight loss or increased appetite. Rarely, there is an increase in suicidal thoughts with this medication. It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any troublesome side effects while taking Strattera.
Q: How should I take Strattera?
A: Strattera should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food. Do not crush or chew the capsules, as this will release all of the drugs at once and could cause adverse effects.
Conclusion
Strattera is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. It is a safe and effective treatment for the condition when taken as directed. Strattera can cause side effects, but most are mild and do not require medical attention.
Strattera is an important medication for people with ADHD. It can help improve focus, concentration, and impulsivity. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with ADHD, talk to your doctor about whether Strattera might be right for you.
A Word From Therapy Mantra
Your mental health — Your psychological, emotional, and social well-being — has an impact on every aspect of your life. Positive mental health essentially allows you to effectively deal with life’s everyday challenges.
At TherapyMantra, we have a team of therapists who provide affordable online therapy to assist you with issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, workplace Issues, addiction, relationship, OCD, LGBTQ, and PTSD. You can book a free therapy or download our free Android or iOS app.