Atomoxetine and Irritability: What Users Say

• Gan...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 17, 2019

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Strattera is a wonderful alternative to stimulants. While unmedicated, I would consistently have brain fog and I would never be able to focus. I would frequently have to ask others to repeat themselves as I would always drift off mid-sentence. I never experienced hyperactivity. Every stimulant medication I tried (Adderall, IR Ritalin, Concerta) all resulted in anxiety and loss of personality. With Strattera, I feel as if the fog has cleared, while also maintaining my regular self - the most 'normal' I’ve ever felt. I’m currently on 80 mg a day weighing 175 lbs. It took my body roughly 5 weeks to become fully adjusted to the medication and receive the full benefits. Just make sure to always take this medication on a full stomach or you’ll probably experience some nausea. Also, the first couple of weeks I felt a little more agitated than usual, but this passed after the first few weeks. Give this medication a chance, especially if stimulants give you anxiety!"

• Ram...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 12, 2021

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I started Strattera 1.5 weeks ago. I started to feel the effects after 4 days. The effects were not subtle. It makes completing tasks easier and I can flip the switch between focusing and not focusing with less effort. I imagine this is what it would feel like to be normal. I am also prescribed 60mg of Adderall which I haven't been taking since being on Strattera. Strattera so far is more effective for me than Adderall. I feel more alert and less tired. It is easier for me to sit down and focus and I get less distracted. The frustration I normally feel when I don't take Adderall that comes from procrastinating and not following through is gone. At my next appointment I will be moving my Adderall prescription down to 30mg. I wish I had been prescribed Strattera as a kid instead of Ritalin and Concerta. It would have been a better choice for growing up on an ADHD medication and affected my personality less than stimulants."

• Mik...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• January 11, 2020

Atomoxetine for ADHD "It does work. But, give it two or 3 weeks. You will feel weird in the beginning and a little nauseous. It goes away. I do feel like I concentrate better and focus longer. Be careful with caffeine! It makes caffeine much stronger and lasts longer. After a few months while on it, I get very irritable and tense. I need a break and let it wash out. No problems stopping cold turkey. Take 80mg a day. Overall, it's good. Not perfect though. Orgasms seem delayed for some reason and slightly less of a sex drive. No changes in weight."

• Sha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 31, 2020

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Sharing my experience and hoping other people will comment things they had in common with my experience. My doctor started me on 40mg of Strattera. The first few days I had so much energy. I cleaned my house at 5 am on my day off for no reason. About 2 weeks in, I started to feel drowsy. Anxiety has decreased a bit, but I feel tired in the mornings when I take it. My doctor is now saying she wants to up my dose to 80mg and that it won’t make me tired. I started taking the 40mg at night, and it not only makes me tired but also makes me agitated, and I can’t sleep."

• Sea...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 16, 2019

Atomoxetine for ADHD "This is my seventh time attempting the medication. I'm trying to do it right this time, no other choice. My experience has been to start at the lowest dose... 10 mg and stay on that for six to eight weeks before increasing it (10 mg at a time). I usually expect and prepare for two weeks of awfulness in the way of side effects before things get better. I've learned to be very wary of either nicotine or caffeine consumption with this medication. My experience with norepinephrine drugs like this is that just a little bit of nicotine or caffeine sets off my anxiety and irritability. It helps me with psychosomatic pain along with Cymbalta. It helps my anxiety. It increases alertness. It increases my focus but not nearly like amphetamine stimulants. Sexual side effects for me are not too serious. Orgasm as a male is irregular, but I actually find it more pleasurable. I find it also useful not to combine much alcohol with the drug. Uppers with downers for me can be ugly."

• Tes...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 1, 2023

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Throughout my diagnosis journey, I have experimented with numerous medications, and Strattera (Atomoxetine) has proven to be the most effective for me. Unlike stimulants or SSRIs, which caused mood swings, anxiety, and emotional blunting, Strattera doesn't make me feel 'medicated.' Initially, I started with a 40 mg dose, which led to irritability, depression, and anxiety. After discussing these side effects with my doctor, I realized I had exceeded my optimal dosage. I am particularly sensitive to medications, so taking a month-long break from Strattera was necessary. Upon resuming Strattera at a reduced 18 mg dose, I no longer experienced the negative side effects and began enjoying the full benefits of the medication. If you are considering Strattera, give it a chance and collaborate with your doctor to find the appropriate dosage for your needs. Too much of a good thing can be harmful, and the same chemical can either positively transform your life or wreak havoc on it."

• Sha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 28, 2020

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I have been on Strattera for about 2 1/2 months now, my starting dose was 40 mg. The first few days, I had a burst of energy, then, after that, I felt so tired. My doctor upped my dose to 80 mg. I’m not as tired anymore, but my insomnia is horrible. I have to take a sleeping pill every night, and even with that, I still wake up at 2 am every night, agitated and can’t stop moving. Also, the dry mouth is horrible. I will say I don’t have as much anxiety."

• Dre...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 24, 2020

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I have manic bipolar/anxiety/very poor focus, and I take this with Buspar 15 mg. It was really good the first 2-4 weeks. I could focus, I had a burst of energy. I felt so good, I could feel it working. I no longer had racing thoughts, I was so much calmer. But after the 4 weeks, my poor focus came back. I am now on 60 mg once a day and still feel nothing. I’m extremely agitated and annoyed with everyone, yet calm as hell still but waiting to blow if you get that. It definitely helps with impulsive behavior and calming the mind and feeling low, but maybe it’s the combination of pills I take because I swear I rarely feel low anymore. I've never been better, I just hate that it doesn’t work as potently as in the beginning."

• Uno...
• December 7, 2019

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Diagnosed at age 46. Initially placed on a med that works for my son (methylphenidate - short acting 10 mg) made me feel crazy - manic-like, and my typical resting heart rate is 55 - on that it was 100, whoa, uncomfortable. Psychiatrist switched me to Strattera 40 mg x 1 mo. Side effects: sometimes morning nausea, intermittent dry mouth, mild constipation, took longer to orgasm, irritability. Increased to 60 mg x 2 weeks then was supposed to go on 80 mg. Insurance required a pre-auth, so went off entirely for 1 month (gotta love the US healthcare system!). Now, the last few days took 60 mg a day for 2 days, then 80 mg a day for 2 days. Side effects: extreme nausea 1 hour after taking, but was taking on an empty stomach, so will change that, dry mouth 1-2 times a day. Resting heart rate mid-60s. Haven’t tried sex yet, we’ll see. I am certain I am more focused. So far, I am happy with this. Worry a little about possible liver failure, but that is very rare. Probably more chance of ending up in an accident from my inattention by NOT taking the pills."

• Ty1...
• September 4, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I see a lot of mixed reviews on this. It's obvious this drug is EXTREMELY helpful on some and on others it's completely ineffective, and can even do harm. My suggestion is to try it out for a month. If you don't feel the effects of it, try it for another month and if you still don't then switch to another drug. If you start feeling agitated by it, get off it immediately. For me, Strattera has worked wonders. I am 18 years of age and have noticed the effects after my 4th week of taking it. My mind feels clearer, and I feel more motivated to focus on things I would usually find boring. The effects are reflected in my ACT score: my score has gone up a whole 6 points since first taking it. I wholeheartedly recommend Strattera to anyone with ADD."

• nic...
• September 7, 2019

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I was put on 40 mg of Strattera right after being diagnosed with ADHD. The first couple of days, I had a lot of nausea, dry mouth, and fatigue, but I knew to expect this and tried to power through. After a week, however, I started feeling super irritable, which is not normal for me. I'm typically an even-keeled, patient person most of the time. Then, last night, I started uncontrollably crying and thinking terrible, awful things about myself that I have never thought before. My partner said, 'That's the worst I've ever seen you.' I didn't take it today (I refuse to take that ever again), and after a week on it, I feel lifeless. Like a zombie. Like my personality, my thought life, my ability to function is just not there. I assume this will get better after a bit more time, but it's scary to think that all that can change in one week."

• ric...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 13, 2015

Atomoxetine for ADHD "In my 30s, energy levels dropped, and I found life more challenging. I would wonder how I could get through the day. I took Adderall but could feel that it wasn't right. I guess it felt too much like a party drug. After a few doses, I actually just felt, I suppose, buzzed, and not able to complete tasks. Perhaps the dose wasn't high enough? I went to my doctor with a list of medications and notes. He picked up on Strattera, which wasn't my top choice. The instructions said it may take a month to work! It was instant! I am less irritable and have more mental energy. My brain must have been tired, and my thoughts are more positive than negative. I have had all the side effects inconsistently. They are far outweighed by the benefits. Also, try matcha green tea!!"

• The...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 14, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Diagnosed with ADD this year, I initially wanted to go without medications. Being a senior in college, I have deadlines, and I noticed my grades suffering significantly. I decided to give medications a try. My doctor prescribed a 6-week starter pack of Strattera (25-80 mg). I noticed a difference in attentiveness, but after week 4, I felt lethargic, unmotivated, sad, impatient, VERY irritable, and depressed. I didn't go to class, didn't turn in homework, and my grades took a deeper dive in that month. My psychiatrist then prescribed Vyvanse (30 mg). I have been on it for a month, and it helps me stay focused without losing sleep and decreasing my appetite. Best of all, my grades are improving! My worst side effect is dry mouth. Hope this helps(:"

• Hug...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 9, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Great stuff. Like any ADD med, if you have underlying depression or anxiety, I can see how this could exacerbate it. Caffeine used to make me super depressed. Take care of your depression before starting a stimulant. Anyway, this stuff is great. Vyvanse would make me super edgy and basically feel like ripping the world's juggler out with my bare hands. This stuff feels like that peak 5 minutes of coffee where you're like, 'damn, I wish this could last all day!' I sleep way better, I have a ton more energy. Things don't bother me as much as they used to, so I can focus on my work more. However, you should really work out to burn it off, otherwise, you could get a little aggressive. I know that I really don't put up with any shit while I'm on it."

• Hoo...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 7, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I'm just starting the journey of the medication. I never wanted to be on meds because I am a chef and did not want my taste buds affected. I have to say in one week I feel really hopeful, less irritable, and focused and clear. I can see my goals clearly and am knocking things out one by one and not so stressed. It's working as an antidepressant too. I'm excited. I really am. I'm reading that the journey has just begun, but I'm going to see it through. Adderall is a mess, and we use it for a buzz and to be high all night. I actually am done with those days and want to start to get my life on track. How is it with drinking? I don't drink much, but since I began to be a working chef, we have a ton of wine pairings. It would be nice to join in with clients."

• Mom...
• May 14, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I have been taking Strattera for 2 years now! Side effects are awful at the beginning and last 6-8 weeks! I feel normal now, and I don't have the irritability I had on other medicines. I think it depends on the person."

• ADD...
• November 4, 2008

Atomoxetine for ADHD "For me, this drug caused headaches every day, nausea and gagging, and dry mouth all the time. I noticed a change in personality - easily agitated, I was 'distant' and lost my 'affectionate side.' My doctor made me come off it slowly before I started Concerta. Coming off it is just as bad."

• 788...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 30, 2024

Atomoxetine for ADHD "At first, 40 mg caused agitation. Decreased to 25 mg. On that for a few months, but then we decided to up back to 40 mg. Feeling better but not real good. Not sure another increase is worth it due to side effects, but we shall see."

• Smo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 17, 2022

Atomoxetine for ADHD "This is a nightmare. Between the irritability interfering with my ability to function, the sleeping for 16 hours a day, and isolation due to hiding from people thanks to above side effects, I have had it. It cured my anxiety and left me with depression and anger. I’m ready to quit cold turkey before my next appointment, it’s so bad. I wouldn’t wish this feeling on my worst enemy. There has been no change in ability to focus or anything ADHD-related despite taking 40 mg every evening. Don’t let anyone put you on this as a first-line medication unless you’re ready for all side effects and no relief from ADHD."

• The...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 11, 2022

Atomoxetine for ADHD "First, I want to clarify there is a difference in how or what neurotransmitters are the target for ADHD. Science tells us what areas of the brain are affected by particular ones. However, it is different in every person exactly which neurotransmitters need uptake. It is trial and error. I was born cross-eyed, and although corrected, my comprehension is a serious problem. I cannot read without my Wellbutrin. I took Strattera for 6 months, every month, the psychiatrist increased my dose. It made me extremely anxious, agitated, and hyper."

• Mar...
• December 1, 2015

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Recently diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 22, and am a full-time college student with difficulties getting my responsibilities and homework assignments done. Started on 40 mg once a day with instructions to bump up to twice a day after 3 days if I needed. I refused to bump up because of the crappy effects. I know some people have had great results with this drug, but I was not one of them. The only positive thing I noticed was the ability to tune out outside noises and distractors, but those distractions your own head puts out are still there. Side effects: complete revulsion to food, sluggish and lethargic, lack of motivation or enthusiasm, and EXTREME irritability. By the 5th day, I refused to take it."

• BRI...
• October 21, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Been on Strattera for about a month now. The only thing I've noticed is that it gives me heartburn. I've also become more agitated. Has not helped with focus at all. Still daydream. Still very forgetful. This medication really sucks for me. I know a lot of Drs hate giving stimulant drugs for ADHD, but it's what helps me. I personally think if you are gonna take a non-stimulant drug, you might as well take all-natural meds."

• Hou...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 17, 2019

Atomoxetine for ADHD "I was finally diagnosed 3 years ago at the age of 45. After trying stimulants and stopping them due to the side effects, being agitation, sleeplessness, crashes, chest pains on the heart side, etc., I was then prescribed Strattera. Unfortunately, Strattera's side effects were absolutely horrible. I was advised that the side effects would subside after 3 to 4 weeks. Well, after 3 to 4 weeks, those horrible side effects did suddenly stop, but then I had unbearable anxiety. Next, I'll be trying Wellbutrin or Effexor, the next line of medication that may help with my ADHD, although probably not as effective as the medications mentioned above. Very frustrating, but not giving up. I keep praying for some relief :)"

• Ell...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 6, 2020

For ADHD "I am a 39-year-old female and have been taking 80 mg of atomoxetine for 2.5 weeks. I have been irritable, listless, having nightmares of my phobias, and hot flashes. I am going to continue to see what changes."

• Nic...
• May 23, 2016

Atomoxetine for ADHD "Strattera was like water through my system, dirty water; did nothing except give me terrible distress: stomach aches, terrible constipation, nausea, constant dry heaves, and, at last, vomiting that almost had me fail my last school semester. Oh, did I mention the irritability at all the side effects? Had to quit cold turkey."