Atomoxetine: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 6 years and older. It forms part of a wider treatment programme that may include psychological, educational and social support. Atomoxetine requires a prescription in the United Kingdom and is available as oral capsules and an oral solution.

Atomoxetine is indicated for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 6 years and older. It is used as part of a complete treatment programme, rather than as the only part of care. This programme may also include psychological support, educational measures and social support.

The safety and effectiveness of atomoxetine for ADHD have been established in this age group. Its safety and effectiveness in children younger than 6 years have not been established.

Atomoxetine belongs to a class called selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors. Noradrenaline is a chemical messenger that carries signals between nerve cells in the brain. After a signal is sent, nerve cells normally absorb some of this messenger again.

Atomoxetine reduces this reabsorption, allowing noradrenaline to remain available for longer. This changes signalling in brain pathways involved in attention and control of behaviour, which helps explain its use in ADHD.

The label lists oral capsules in strengths of 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg and 100 mg, and an oral solution of 4 mg/mL. The label lists a starting dosage of 0.5 mg/kg/day for children weighing less than 70 kg, a target of 1.2 mg/kg/day, and a maximum of 1.4 mg/kg/day or 100 mg/day, whichever is less. The label lists a starting dosage of 40 mg/day for adults and children weighing 70 kg or more, a target of 80 mg/day, and a maximum of 100 mg/day.

The label lists administration once daily in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the morning and late afternoon or early evening. The label lists a minimum titration interval of 3 days, extended to 4 weeks for certain patients with slower metabolism or interacting medicines.

Liver impairment may require a different prescribing plan. These are label facts, not an individual dosing recommendation.

A missed dose should be addressed as soon as it is remembered, while keeping within the prescribed total daily amount in any 24-hour period. An extra dose must not cause that limit to be exceeded. A pharmacist can clarify how this applies to the prescribed schedule if there is uncertainty.

Published studies in pregnant women are insufficient to establish whether atomoxetine increases the risk of birth defects, miscarriage or other pregnancy complications. Some animal studies found harmful effects on development. There are no data on its presence in human milk, effects on breastfed children or effects on milk production.

Atomoxetine is present in animal milk and is therefore likely to be present in human milk. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist so that treatment needs and potential risks can be considered.

The label specifies storage at 20°C to 25°C, with temporary temperature variations permitted from 15°C to 30°C. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.