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Atomoxetine is used to increase the ability to pay attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Atomoxetine is in a class of medications called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, a natural substance in the brain.
Atomoxetine comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food either once a day in the morning, or twice a day in the morning and late afternoon or early evening. To help you remember to take atomoxetine, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take atomoxetine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of atomoxetine and increase your dose after 3 days.
Atomoxetine controls ADHD but does not cure it. Do not stop taking atomoxetine without talking to your doctor.
Before taking atomoxetine, ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient and read it carefully.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before taking atomoxetine,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Do not take more than the prescribed daily amount of atomoxetine in 24 hours.
Atomoxetine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
Atomoxetine may slow down children's growth or weight gain. Talk to your child's doctor about the risks of taking this medication.
Atomoxetine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to atomoxetine.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Last Revised - 07/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |