STRATTERA

Strattera hard capsules 80mg Why do I need this medicine? Atomoxetine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).

People with ADHD may have problems concentrating on a given task and may have short attention spans. They may also be impulsive, restless and hyperactive.

Atomoxetine is meant to be taken as part of a complete ADHD care programme which includes psychological, educational and social measures.

How do I take this medicine? Take Atomoxetine exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Atomoxetine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking it even when there are signs of improvement. Do not stop taking Atomoxetine unless instructed by the doctor.

You may take Atomoxetine with or without food. Swallow the capsule whole, do not chew or crush it. Do not open the capsule as the contents will irritate the eye. What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know. Can I take this with other medicines? Alert your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here:

- mood medicines such as fluoxetine or paroxetine, imipramine, venlafaxine, mirtazapine, MAOIs (eg. isocarboxazid, moclobemide, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
- salbutamol (an asthma medicine)
- quinidine (a heart medicine)
- terbinafine (an antifungal medicine)
- cold or allergy medicines which contains pseudoepedrine or phenylephrine

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription. How should I store this medicine? Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

When should I not use this medicine? Alert your doctor if you have heart disease or heart defects.

Alert your doctor if you have high blood pressure or if you ever had a stroke.

Alert your doctor if you have any eye problems such as glaucoma.

Do not take Atomoxetine if you are currently taking or have previously taken a medicine called a MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) in the last 14 days. Some examples of MAOIs are moclobemide (a mood medicine)and selegiline (a Parkinson's Disease medicine).

Atomoxetine is not meant for children younger than 6 years old. What should I take note of while taking this medicine? Inform your doctor if you have any illnesses, especially those listed here:

- liver or kidney disease
- mood or psychiatric problems
- difficulty in passing urine
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)

Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant while being treated with Atomoxetine.

Alert your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while being treated with Atomoxetine.

While you are being treated with Atomoxetine, you will need to see your doctor regularly to monitor your response to the medicine. Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take? Avoid alcohol.

ATOMOXETINE HCL

What side effects could I experience? Atomoxetine may cause headache, appetite loss, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, tiredness, problems sleeping, rashes, mood swings, urinary problems and decreased libido.

Atomoxetine may cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Alert your doctor immediately if you feel depressed, experience changes in mood and behaviour, increased hostility or aggression. Parents should monitor their child for mood or behavioural changes.

Other side effects are not common but may be more serious. Alert your doctor immediately if you notice yellowing of your eyes or skin, very dark urine, itching and pain near the stomach area.

Alert your doctor if you have any other unusual problems while being treated with Atomoxetine.