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Strattera
Another Weapon in the Fight Against ADHD
By Heather Johnson Durocher
Strattera comes in capsule form like some stimulants. But it must be swallowed, meaning that parents of children who don't know how to swallow (or have a tough time doing so) should keep this aspect of the medication in mind. Some stimulants come in capsule form as well but can be opened, and its contents can be sprinkled over food for easier ingestion.
As a non-controlled substance, Strattera provides the convenience of physician samples and phone-in refills, according to the drug's manufacturer, Eli Lilly and Company. While this is a great convenience, some experts believe that there is the potential for patients to not be followed closely enough by their physicians if they can get a six- or 12-month supply of medication through refills. These experts say the prescribing convenience should not compromise the closeness of the follow-up.
Unlike stimulants, which generally work immediately, Strattera takes longer to take effect initially, Dr. Adesman says. "It sometimes takes a little bit of patience to see the full benefit of the medicine," he says. Although some benefits may be seen within the first few days, it generally takes three to four weeks to see the full effect.
While the medical community and families applaud this new option in treating ADHD and recognize its potential benefits, parents should realize that it is new and therefore doesn't yet have the track record the stimulant drugs have, says Dr. Adesman, who is a recognized expert in the treatment of ADHD. "I don't have any reason at this point to doubt the safety of this medicine, but reality is the medicine hasn't had widespread use for [that long], compared to stimulants that have been used for decades," he says. "Most children respond quite well to a stimulant medication."
If a child has been successful on a stimulant medication, Dr. Adesman says, the availability of Strattera shouldn't change their prescription. Stimulants should remain the first option in treating most children with ADHD. Should they not work, families may want to explore with their health care provider how Strattera could help. "Until we have more clinical research and experience, Strattera should generally be considered a promising second line treatment for ADHD," says Dr. Adesman.