What is Strattera?
Strattera, which has the generic name atomoxetine HCI, is marketed by Eli Lilly & Co. Strattera is a drug used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, in both children and adults. Unlike other drugs used in the treatment of ADHD, such as the popular drugs Adderall and Ritalin, Strattera is not a stimulant. Strattera is designed as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Strattera works by helping to regulate the available amount of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in the brain. Norepinephrine is believed to be involved in regulating an individual's impulse control, organization and attention.
Strattera Side Effects
The more common side effects of Strattera may include nausea, decreased appetite, problems sleeping, mood swings, constipation, and sexual side effects. The side effects for children and adults may vary to some degree. Since Strattera is not a stimulant, there does not exist the same potential for substance abuse as there is with some of the alternative ADHD treatments like Adderall; however Strattera may be linked to some harmful side effects. Some patients who are prescribed Strattera may experience weight loss, impaired motor skills, increased blood pressure or heart rate, liver damage, and increased suicidal thoughts or actions. Patients who already have a history of liver or heart problems may be at an additional risk of developing further liver or cardiovascular difficulties.
Strattera and Liver Disease Warning
In 2004, the FDA updated the labeling for Strattera with a new warning concerning the risk of severe liver damage. Two patients, one child and one adult, whom had both been taking Strattera for several months, developed liver injuries. Warnings were added to Strattera as the possibility of developing liver problems can be very serious. Severe liver injury has the potential to lead to liver failure that may result in the need for a liver transfer or may even result in death.
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Strattera Black Box Warning
Similar to some popular antidepressants on the market, a black box warning has recently been added to Strattera concerning the risk of increased suicidal thoughts or actions amongst children who take the drug. The black box warning is the strongest warning the FDA has available to it. The recent black box warning came about after the FDA reviewed results of clinical trials involving patients taking Strattera. In the trial, out of 1,357 patients taking Strattera, 5 children reported having suicidal thoughts. None of the 851 placebo patients in the trial reported any suicidal thoughts. One of the children linked to suicidal thoughts attempted suicide during the trial, but survived the attempt. Patients should be watched closely when they first begin using the drug or when the dosage amount is changed. There is an additional risk of changed behavior and suicidal thoughts during these times. The material included in the new black box warning must be incorporated on the label as well as all advertisements for the drug. The black box warning concerns only children taking Strattera, as some analysis has shown that Strattera may not cause suicidal thoughts in adults.
Questions and Consultations
If you or a family member has used the prescription drug Strattera and noticed adverse side effects, such as liver disease or suicidal thoughts, you should contact a physician immediately. If you would like to discuss your rights, are interested in more information on Strattera litigation, or if you have information about the cases that you would like to share with us, please fill out the short evaluation form below and a member of Seeger Weiss LLP?s experienced staff will call you to discuss your potential rights concerning Strattera. Attorney consultations incur no obligation on your part and all initial consultations are free of charge and do not create an attorney-client relationship. Seeger Weiss LLP has office locations in both New York and New Jersey and its attorneys practice in courts throughout the country.
Link To Lawyer Seek's Strattera Content:
<a href='http://www.lawyerseek.com/Practice/Pharmaceutical-Injury-C1/Strattera-P24/'>Strattera: Lawyer Seek</a> |
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