Side effects of atomoxetine
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Side Effects of Atomoxetine
Common Side Effects of Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is widely used for treating ADHD. However, it is associated with several common side effects. These include dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, decreased appetite, constipation, dizziness, sweating, dysuria, sexual problems, and palpitations. In children and adolescents, additional common side effects are headache, vomiting, somnolence, and dizziness. Gastrointestinal symptoms, irritability, sleep problems, and fatigue are also frequently reported.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Atomoxetine has been linked to cardiovascular side effects, including modest increases in heart rate and blood pressure, which are generally well tolerated and tend to decrease upon cessation of treatment. In children, adolescents, and adults, small but statistically significant increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate have been observed. Although these changes are usually minor and clinically insignificant, there have been rare reports of severe cardiovascular events, such as hypertensive crisis.
Behavioral and Nervous System Side Effects
Behavioral and nervous system side effects of atomoxetine include irritability, which appears to be more common in individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) compared to typically developing individuals. Other reported side effects include nervousness, weakness, and dyspepsia. In some cases, atomoxetine has been associated with chills, a rare side effect.
Urinary and Liver Complications
High doses of atomoxetine can lead to urinary system complications and liver disorders. Patients using high doses for extended periods may experience significant adverse effects, and caution is advised, especially for pregnant women and those with pre-existing liver conditions.
Managing Side Effects
To mitigate the side effects of atomoxetine, different dosing strategies can be employed. For instance, starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help reduce the incidence of adverse events. Splitting the dose and titrating slowly may also prevent or lessen side effects .
Conclusion
While atomoxetine is an effective treatment for ADHD, it is associated with a range of side effects, including dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, cardiovascular issues, and behavioral changes. Careful monitoring and appropriate dosing strategies can help manage these side effects, ensuring the safe and effective use of atomoxetine.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic