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.

Special precautions

Before taking atomoxetine,

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atomoxetine or any other medications.

• Do not take atomoxetine if you are taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, including phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate), or have stopped taking them within the past 2 weeks.

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking tell your doctor if you have or have ever had glaucoma, high blood pressure, rapid heart beat, a stroke, a mini-stroke, or heart or liver disease.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking atomoxetine, call your doctor.

• You should know that atomoxetine may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

• Remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.

• You should know that atomoxetine has caused severe liver damage in some patients. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms: itchy skin, dark urine, yellowing of your skin or eyes, pain in the upper right part of your stomach, or flu-like symptoms.

• You should know that atomoxetine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting when you get up too quickly from a lying position. To avoid this problem, get out of bed slowly, resting your feet on the floor for a few minutes before standing up.

• You should know that atomoxetine should be used as part of a total treatment program for ADHD, which may include counseling and special education. Make sure to follow all of your doctor's and/or therapist's instructions.

Side effects

Atomoxetine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• heartburn

• upset stomach

• vomiting

• loss of appetite

• constipation

• dry mouth

• excessive tiredness

• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

• dizziness

• headache

• mood swings

• irritability

• weight loss

• decreased sex drive or ability

• difficulty urinating

• painful menstrual periods

• cough

• runny nose

• violent behavior

• crying

• fever

• chills

• muscle pain

• sweating

• hot flashes

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them or those listed in the SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS section, call your doctor immediately:

• pounding heartbeat

• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

• hoarseness

• difficulty swallowing or breathing

• hives

• rash

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 all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.

Do not let anyone else take your medication.