Atomoxetine (Strattera)

Class

Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI), non-stimulant

Mechanism

Selectively inhibits presynaptic norepinephrine transporter, increasing norepinephrine levels in the prefrontal cortex, enhancing attention and executive function

FDA-Approved Use

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Off-Label Use

Executive dysfunction, augmentation in depression, emotional dysregulation in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fatigue and cognitive slowing following traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Formulation

Oral capsules

Titration

40 mg once daily; may be increased after 3–7 days, divided dosing (BID) possible

Dose Range

40–100 mg/day

Kinetics

Metabolized by CYP2D6; half-life ~5 hours (longer in poor metabolizers); steady state in 2–3 days

Common AEs

Dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, insomnia, dizziness, increased heart rate and blood pressure

Serious/Rare AEs

Rare hepatotoxicity; monitor liver function tests if clinically indicated; possible mood activation or irritability

Monitoring

Blood pressure, heart rate, mood changes, liver function tests if symptomatic

Black Box Warning

Suicidal ideation risk in children and adolescents

Considerations

May improve apathy, attention deficits, and slowed processing in patients with TBI, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease (PD). Considered lower risk for misuse or dependence, making it preferable in patients with substance use history. Use caution and monitor cardiovascular status in patients with underlying cardiac disease.