Pharmacology - Strattera question quick.

[Christian1122]

i have been taking strattera for 3 days now. the first day i noticed i would have to take a leak alot and then my nodes would hurt. then today my heart started freaking out and beating really fast and then beating slow and all out of rythm, and my whole body felt funny. what would you suggest i do? call my doctor or stick it out.

[Gradient]

Christian1122,

Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor. Though digestive irregularities are anticipated side-effects, heart rhythm irregularities aren't a side-effect to be taken lightly - given the particular neurotransmitter involved. It sounds like this dose may be a bit high for one's body physiology; my chimp would certainly consult with his doctor to discuss a different dosing schedule.

On another note - try to never reveal any time that you might have ingested any drug, legally or otherwise. It is considered self-incrimination on this website, and is against the rules for your own protection.

[cannabis-sam]

What gradient has said, is probably as much information as you need.

But just to add, SWIM has on strattera for a while and did find during the month he was on it, that he got heart palpations every few days or so.

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[Christian1122]

did SWIM tell his doctor and he took SWIM off strattera? what did he put SWIM on after? also SWIM is only on 18 miligrams. The lowest i beleive.

[cannabis-sam]

SWIM (if memory serves him correctly) was on 30mg, but SWIM is a big guy, (6.4, 12st), along with insomnia, decreased appetite, and heart palpatations, SWIM's psychiatrist decided it would not be a good idea for SWIM to continue with the medication.

[wespawloski]

SWIM didnt get much from strattera... but it looks like SWIY is getting a big norepinephrine boost (as should come from strattera). Does SWIY feel like his cognitive functions are peaked?

Why is SWIY taking strattera, ADD or depression?

If SWIY is noticing beneficials, then maybe his dose is just too high... but the general rule of thumb with these kinds of meds, one has to wait at least two weeks before he can know how the medication will help him.

If he is getting too much of a boost, in example, in a few weeks his body may compensate around that... negating the negatives and possibly bringing positives.

Be safe. if he feels its too much, don't risk it.

SWIM has had experiences with amphetamines and THC where his heart began to race incredibly fast and he entered a psychosis. The key maneuver, is just to calm yourself down. Breath really deep, don't let your fidgety body breathe every two seconds... Sit or lay down, and breathe. Your heart will slow down in a few minutes, then just be careful about moving fast, and walk to some place where you can relax.

Have SWIY check his pulse frequently, tell him to check how hard his pulse pushes against his finger, as that can be used as a rough BP estimate. learning how his body feels is an essential tool when dealing with medications that can cause his symptoms.