Ohio Strattera® Lawyers
Strattera®
What is Strattera® (atomoxetine)?
Strattera® (pronounced "stra-tare-a") has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") for treatment of ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) in both children and adults. Strattera® is a prescription drug and is not available for over-the-counter purchase.
How does Strattera® work?
Strattera® is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, a neurotransmitter of certain nerve cells in the brain. This prescription drug increases norepinephrine-often resulting in improved organizational skills, better regulated impulses and more enhanced focus. Strattera® is different than other ADHD medications. Traditional ADHD medications-Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta, for example-are stimulant medications that work through the neurotransmitter dopamine.
The side effects.
On December 17, 2004 The Wall Street Journal reported that Strattera® could cause serious liver side effects in a small number of patients. These complications may progress to liver failure, perhaps resulting in death or the need for liver transplant.
Two cases were reported to the FDA: The first case involved a 14 year-old boy who developed persistent flu-like symptoms after taking Strattera® for several months. Blood tests showed that his liver was not functioning properly. The boy was taken off Strattera®, and he recovered without major liver injury. The second case involved a 31-year-old woman who developed flu-like symptoms and jaundice after taking Strattera® for approximately one month. Fortunately, she also recovered after discontinuing the drug.
Long-term damage is still an unknown at this time. If you are taking Strattera®, and you experience any of the following problems, you should contact your doctor immediately:
- flu-like systems or tenderness on the right side of the abdomen
- yellowing skin and eyes (jaundice)
- dark urine, or swelling
Your doctor can perform simple blood tests to determine whether you have suffered liver damage.
