Strattera®: Not the Right Solution for ADHD
Living with the disease ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) can be a challenge, both for adults and children. People with this disorder become very restless, find it hard to concentrate, and may make careless mistakes. The intensity of their problems can be overwhelming, affecting relationships and everyday activities.
For many years, stimulants such as Ritalin® and Adderall® have been the standard treatment for ADHD, but these drugs pose other problems such as headaches, sleep problems, and increased blood pressure. Adderall® has even been linked to heart problems and strokes.
Enter Strattera® (atomoxetine), billed by its manufacturer, Eli Lilly as “the only non–stimulant medication being marketed for the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults.” Sadly, however, Strattera® has its own very harmful side effects.
Strattera® May Damage the Liver
In some patients, Strattera® use may cause liver damage and failure, resulting in death or the need for a liver transplant. The number of liver injury cases is unknown because of underreporting.
Symptoms of liver injury include:
- yellowing of the skin and eyes
- dark urine
- tenderness on the right–upper part of the stomach
- tiredness, nausea, lack of appetite
If you or your child takes Strattera® and develops these signs of liver problems, visit a doctor as soon as possible.
Children and Teenagers Taking Strattera® Have an Increased Risk of Suicide
Children and teenagers who take Strattera® may have increased thoughts of suicide or make suicide attempts. Twelve studies confirmed this risk, according to the Strattera® prescribing instructions.
You should call the doctor immediately if your child is taking Strattera® and has thoughts of suicide or sudden changes in mood or behavior. This danger is especially high at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose.
Eli Lilly’s History
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Strattera® for sale in 2002. Eli Lilly did not include a prominent, bold type warning about liver damage in the drug’s prescribing instructions until December, 2004. The company waited until September, 2005 to include a boxed, urgent warning about the link between Strattera® and suicidal thoughts in children.
Both label changes were the result of FDA notices and intervention. In September, 2005, the agency also required Eli Lilly to issue a medication guide for patients explaining the dangers of taking Strattera®.
Your Strattera® Case
Brayton Purcell is concerned about the harm caused by unsafe medications, including Strattera®. We are currently reviewing Strattera® cases. If you or your child has been injured due to Strattera®, please contact us through this web site or by calling 1–866–809–5240 toll–free.
Related Articles
- January 21, 2005
- FDA Issues Warning About Drug Used to Treat ADHD