Atomoxetine Side Effects: An Introduction
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
atomoxetine hydrochloride (
Strattera®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When people do develop atomoxetine side effects, in most cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with atomoxetine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of atomoxetine side effects with you.)
Common Side Effects Seen With Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine has been thoroughly studied in clinical trials, with many people having been evaluated.
In these studies, side effects occurring in the group of people taking the drug are always documented and compared to the side effects that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
Based on these studies, some of the most common atomoxetine side effects include:
- Nausea -- in up to 21 percent of people
- Dry mouth -- up to 21 percent
- Headaches -- up to 19 percent
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 18 percent
- Decreased appetite -- up to 16 percent
- Insomnia -- up to 15 percent
- Vomiting -- up to 11 percent
- Drowsiness -- up to 11 percent.
Some other common side effects of atomoxetine (occurring in 2 percent to 9 percent of people) include:
