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Risks of Strattera

Strattera is a prescription drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in both children and adults. Its chemical name is atomoxetine hydrocholoride. Strattera is manufactured by drug company Eli Lilly. While Strattera may be beneficial for some people suffering from ADHD, it also has risks. Like any prescription drug, Strattera should only be used under a physician's care, and its risks and benefits should be weighed before choosing to take it.

  1. Suicidal Thoughts

    • Patients taking Strattera may be at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts, according to a warning issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2009. According an FDA study, the average risk of suicidal thinking for patients taking Strattera was about four per every thousand patients studied, while those taking a placebo, or fake pill, showed no suicidal thoughts. The FDA recommends that anyone taking Strattera be monitored closely for unusual changes in behavior, depression and suicidal thoughts. Strattera's official website, strattera.com, recommends patients tell their doctors about any family history of depression or bipolar disorder.

    Liver Injury

    • According to Strattera's official website, liver injury can occur in rare cases in some patients. Patients should call their doctor immediately if they experience itching, dark urine, upper abdominal pain or have unexplained flu-like symptoms. Patients may also have yellowing of the eyes or skin.

    Heart Problems

    • According to Strattera's official website, there have been rare cases where patients taking Strattera suffered from stroke or heart attack. The site recommends informing your doctor about any heart problems you may have, and whether anyone in your family has had heart problems. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting while taking Strattera, call your doctor immediately.

    Sexual Side Effects

    • In adults, sexual side effects are among the most common while taking Strattera, according to the drug's official website. Men may rarely experience a condition called priapism, in which an erection does not go away, in which case you should call a doctor if the erection does not go away on its own within four hours. Women may experience increased menstrual cramps.

    Other Common Side Effects

    • According to Strattera's website, some other common side effects of Strattera in adults include constipation, dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, dizziness and difficulty sleeping. In children, common side effects include upset stomach, decreased appetite, swelling, hives, nausea and slowness of growth. Contact your doctor if you experience serious side effect symptoms.

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