Atomoxet 40

ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a mental disorder characterized by a group of behavioral symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsiveness that interferes with normal functioning and development both in school and at home. This disorder is noticed at an early age hence most cases are diagnosed when children are aged 6 to 12 years old. The symptoms usually improve as the patient gets older, but there are a lot of adults that continue to experience ADHD who were diagnosed as children. Adults with ADHD may experience difficulty in being organized, managing time, setting goals, and maintaining a job. They may also have problems with relationships, addictions, self-esteem, sleep problems, and anxiety disorders.

Atomoxet 40 is a medication prescribed to treat ADHD. This medication contains 40mg of Atomoxetine, which is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. The exact mechanism of the drug is unknown, but is believed to restore balance in brain chemicals. Atomoxet helps ADHD patients to increase the ability in paying attention, concentrating, staying focused and stop fidgeting.

Manufacturer

Atomoxet 40 is manufactured by Fortune Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.

Contraindications

Atomoxet is contraindicated to patients where any of the following apply:

• • Known allergic reaction to any of the medication ingredients
• • Severe heart problems, irregular heartbeat, severe blood vessel problems, severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure, narrow-angle glaucoma
• • Active or history of pheochromocytoma
• • Cerebrovascular disease
• • Lactation
• • Have taken or taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors within the last 14 days

Warnings and Precautions

Atomoxet may interact with certain medical conditions. A patient must inform a physician of all other medical conditions one currently have and if any of these medical conditions apply:

• • Pregnant, planning to get pregnant, breastfeeding
• • History of bipolar disorder and other mental or mood problems, suicidal thoughts or attempts, alcohol or substance abuse
• • History of heart problems, heart attack, abnormal ECG, stroke, blood pressure problem
• • History of blood or bleeding problems, seizure, increased pressure in eye
• • Moderate to severe liver problems
• • Raynaud syndrome
• • Urination problems

Atomoxet may also interact with other medications. A patient must also inform a physician of all medications currently being taken or have recently taken, including the following medications:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine, as it may cause severe and possibly fatal side effects such as severe high blood pressure, high fever, severe agitation, muscle problems, and coma

MAOIs must not be taken two weeks before and after treatment with Atomoxetine.

• • Quinidine or Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine, as it may increase the risk of atomoxetine side effects
• • Albuterol as its side effects may be increased by atomoxetine
• • Decongestants may contain ingredients that increase heart rate or blood pressure
• • Antihypertensive medications
• • Antipsychotics
• • CYP2D6 inhibitors
• • Pseudoephedrine
• • Phenylephrine

These are not complete lists of interactions. A physician must be consulted for more information.

Atomoxetine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, light-headedness, or fainting. Caution is advised when driving, operating machineries, and performing tasks that require alertness. These side effects may also be increased by hot weather, exercise or fever. These may also be prevented by sitting up or standing slowly.

Atomoxetine may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or attempts in children and teenagers with ADHD. Adults may also be affected. The risk is greater in patients with history of suicidal thoughts and attempts and in patients with personal and family history of bipolar illness.

When used long-term in children, it may affect their growth rate, weight, and their final adult height. A child’s weight and height must be checked regularly and the doctor may recommend a brief discontinuation of therapy from time to time.

Atomoxetine is under Pregnancy Category C – animal studies have shown harmful effects on fetus, but there are no adequate human studies. This medication should only be used by pregnant women if clearly needed and the benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known if the drug passes into breast milk. This must be discussed with a physician.

Atomoxet and Alcohol

Alcohol may increase the risk of getting Atomoxet (Atomoxetine) side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, light-headedness, and fainting. It is recommended to limit or avoid alcohol consumption when taking this medication.