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Strattera (atomoxetine) has a half-life of three to four days. This means it has a steady state of about 15 days. This is about normal for most drugs. As far as how long it treats ADD/ADHD symptoms, it seems to last about six hours. Strattera affects hyperactivity and impulse control by reining it in by treating chemicals in the brain and nerves that cause those conditions.
100mg
Sure, most drugs can be prescribed for extended periods of time. Certainly antidepressants (Strattera is a failed antidepressant) are prescribed as such. No studies have examined the long-term effects of Strattera, and therefore it is not recommended that Strattera be used in the long-term. In fact, the Strattera drug information specifically states,"Strattera is not for long-term use." Be careful with drugs like Strattera (antidepressants in general): their specific effects on the brain and their long-term effects are not well-known. These drugs can permanently alter your brain chemistry and cause a variety of secondary effects (for which you'll be prescribed more medications). Of course, this is just my opinion, and it is based on anecdotal evidence. Be cautious.
It's a gradual effect. I would say anywhere from 20-45 minutes depending on dosage. It also depends on physical cravings or mental cravings. You will notice an increase in heart rate, cold sweats, dry mouth as some of the side effects and can also lead to insomnia and mood swings.
The patent expires in 2017. You don't have all that long to wait.
It usually does cost a little extra to have Strattera compounded into a liquid, but as long as you have prescription insurance, compounding is often covered. As a pharmacist, I compound strattera into a liquid formulation at a relatively low cost and submit the claim to the patient's insurance to give the patient the maximum cost-effectiveness.
megace is used to increase the appetite
yes
The human body can always become immune to a medication taken for a very long time. Call your doctor.
My doctor specifically told me to take it at night because it is a long-acting medicine. It needs to be a constant time though.
I've tried a benzo with a Strattera once and it was ok... not sure about long term use though, I only did it once.
My 11 year old daughter had been taking Strattera for a little more than 3 years. About 5 weeks ago she decided on her own, without discussing it with her father and I, to stop cold turkey taking her meds. She was taking 60mg of Strattera and a melatonin every night before bed. She was taking it at night because of the stomach aches. they were just to much to handle during the morning at school. After a few weeks of not taking the meds she confided in my Mother that she was not taking the Strattera anymore. I couldn't really tell any major differences. The only big difference was her insatiable appetite In the about 5 or 6 weeks she has been off the Strattera(taking it for ADHD) she has gained 10lbs. She says she is now sleeping through the night. Falling asleep quite easily too. It used to take her more than an hour even with the Melatonin.