Atomoxetine (often sold as Strattera) is a non-stimulant medication for ADHD. A 40 mg dose is a common dose used in some patients, but the exact dosing is tailored to age, weight, and response.
What 40 mg means and what to know:
- Use: ADHD in children 6 years and up, teens, and adults.
- How it works: Selectively inhibits norepinephrine reuptake.
- How it’s taken: Usually once daily in the morning (can be with or without food). If it causes trouble sleeping, taking it early in the day helps.
- How long to see benefit: Some people notice changes in 1–2 weeks, but full benefit may take 4–6 weeks or longer.
- Common side effects: Nausea or stomach upset, decreased appetite, dry mouth, dizziness, tiredness or sleep problems, and sometimes constipation. Insomnia can occur if taken late in the day.
- Important safety and monitoring:
- Do not use with MAO inhibitors or within about 2 weeks of stopping an MAOI.
- Can raise blood pressure and heart rate; monitor in people with hypertension or heart disease.
- Rare risk of liver injury—seek medical attention if you have abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing skin/eyes, or unusual fatigue.
- May affect mood or thinking in some people; watch for new or worsening depression, anxiety, or suicidality.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up.
If you’d like, tell me your age/weight and what you specifically want to know (how it’s dosed for you, safety, interactions with other meds, or side effects), and I can tailor the info. And if this is your prescribed dose, be sure to follow your clinician’s instructions and check in with them if you have concerns or side effects.