Strattera Side Effects

by on March 7, 2012

Summary

Strattera has been proven effective at treating some of the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder—or ADHD—but it is not without side effects.  Some of the side effects of Strattera include changes in bowel habits, irregularities in menstrual periods and general stomach upset.

Common Strattera Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Strattera that generally resolve on their own during treatment include:

  • Change in libido and sexual performance, including an inability to orgasm
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Headache
  • General stomach upset
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Irregular menstrual period

These side effects are usually mild and do not need to be reported unless they become increasingly bothersome or do not resolve on their own after a few days of treatment. Sexual and menstrual changes may persist for a longer amount of time but these are not life-threatening and are to be expected. Patients are encouraged to discuss any worrisome changes with a physician or other health care provider.

Serious Strattera Side Effects

Strattera

The following side effects of Strattera are serious and should be reported to a physician as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions including rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face and difficulty breathing
  • Other breathing problems
  • Pain in the chest
  • Dark urine
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Feeling ill with flu-like symptoms for more than a few hours if the flu is not present
  • High blood pressure
  • Stomach tenderness and pain
  • Infrequent urination or the inability to urinate
  • Vomiting
  • Significant weight loss
  • Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin

Any or all of these Strattera side effects have the potential to be dangerous or even life-threatening. Patients who experience these side effects, or any other side effects that they believe are a result of taking Strattera, should seek immediate medical care.

Strattera has been assigned to the pregnancy category C by the Food and Drug Administration. Conducted animal studies have shown that the drug can cause harm to unborn fetuses and potentially even cause death. Pregnant women are advised against using Strattera during any point during their pregnancy. Women who become pregnant while being treated with Strattera should discuss their options with their physicians. There is currently no information available on whether Strattera passes into the breast milk of nursing mothers; lactating women should use caution if they choose to nurse while taking the medication.

Strattera in Children

The FDA has approved Strattera for use in children as young as six years of age. Caregivers of young children should closely monitor these patients for the side effects of Strattera as they are sometimes less evident in young children. The incidence of side effects in children is no greater than that in adults, however. Children who use Strattera should only do so as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes regular physical check-ups as well as psychological treatment. This medication may be used alone or with other medications to treat ADHD in children and teenagers.

Strattera is a great option for children and adults who suffer from ADHD. It is non-stimulant and carries with it a lowered risk of serious side effects and abuse, but there are still many side effects of Strattera to be considered.