Strattera Side Effects: What to Expect

Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication. Many people tolerate it well, but it can cause side effects. This guide tells you the common reactions, the rare but serious warnings, what to watch for, and practical steps to stay safe while taking Strattera.

Common side effects

The usual ones start early and often fade over weeks. Expect decreased appetite, stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting. Sleep changes are common — either trouble sleeping or feeling tired. You might notice dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, or sweating. Some people report mood swings, irritability, or trouble focusing at first. If these are mild and improving, keep your doctor informed but you may not need to stop the medicine.

Serious warnings — watch closely

Strattera can raise heart rate and blood pressure. Get a baseline check and repeat tests if you or your child has heart disease or high blood pressure. Rarely it causes liver problems: look for yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, stomach pain, or unusual tiredness. Stop the drug and see a doctor if these appear. For children and teens, there is a known risk of new or worsening suicidal thoughts early in treatment. Monitor mood, talk openly about thoughts of self-harm, and contact a clinician immediately if warning signs appear.

Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible. Signs include rash, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing. Seek emergency care right away.

Interactions matter. Avoid taking Strattera with MAO inhibitors. Medicines that inhibit CYP2D6 (like fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) can raise atomoxetine levels and increase side effects — your prescriber may adjust the dose. Tell your doctor about all prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you use.

Tips to reduce side effects: take Strattera with food to cut stomach upset, follow the exact dose schedule, and report persistent sleep problems or mood changes. If appetite loss affects growth in a child, doctors may track weight and height and consider dose changes or drug holidays.

What to expect short term: side effects often appear in the first few days to weeks and slowly improve. What to expect long term: most adults settle into a steady routine without major problems, but periodic checks of blood pressure and heart rate are sensible. If you have liver disease or heart issues, your prescriber may choose a different treatment or monitor more closely.

When to call your doctor: new chest pain, fainting, severe headache, blurred vision, yellowing skin, or new suicidal thoughts. For minor, manageable effects, discuss dose tweaks or timing changes before stopping the medicine abruptly.

Strattera is effective for many people with ADHD, but it’s not risk-free. Stay in regular contact with your healthcare team, watch for the red flags above, and get help quickly if anything serious shows up. That keeps treatment safer and more likely to work well.

Keep a simple symptom diary during the first month — record mood, sleep, appetite, heart rate, and any unusual signs. Bring this to follow-up visits so your prescriber can fine-tune treatment quickly.