Atomoxetine Addiction: Signs and Side Effects of Atomoxetine Abuse

Atomoxetine, formerly sold under the brand name Strattera, was a widely used non-stimulant medication for treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unlike stimulant-based ADHD treatments, atomoxetine was often preferred for its lower risk of abuse and was considered a non-habit-forming option.

However, as of November 2023, Eli Lilly and Company officially discontinued all strengths of Strattera from the market. While generic versions of atomoxetine remain available, the brand’s removal has raised concerns for current and former users, particularly those who may be struggling with misuse or are concerned about abrupt changes in their treatment plan.

Although atomoxetine is not classified as addictive in the traditional sense, psychological dependence and patterns of misuse can still develop. When left unaddressed, this may lead to serious health consequences and, in some cases, addiction.

The good news is that atomoxetine misuse and addiction are treatable with the right support. Recognizing the warning signs, side effects, and behavioral changes associated with misuse is the first step toward getting help.

In this guide, we’ll explore the potential for atomoxetine addiction, the side effects of misuse, and how to identify problematic use in yourself or someone you care about. Whether you’re seeking information for yourself or a loved one, understanding the risks and treatment options can help you make informed, compassionate choices moving forward.

Atomoxetine is meant to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity in children and adults who have ADHD. And while most people who take it genuinely need it, it does have a rare potential for addiction.

Despite this, it is not as addictive as other stimulant ADHD medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin. This is because atomoxetine does not affect a person’s dopamine levels the way stimulant medications do, because stimulants contain amphetamines.

Instead, atomoxetine works by raising a person’s levels of norepinephrine and stabilizing their levels of serotonin.

Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant, but some people may not know this or understand this and believe that it will give them stimulant-like effects if they take it at higher doses.

People may also misuse or abuse atomoxetine as an attempt to self-medicate for off-label use, such as for anxiety or depression, when atomoxetine is not known to treat these conditions.

Atomoxetine misuse may be psychological reasons, such as to improve a person’s mood or their focus before a big exam.

Addiction happens when they feel like they can no longer do these things successfully without taking atomoxetine.

While both atomoxetine and stimulant medications are effective when treating ADHD, studies have found that stimulant medications are more effective overall.

This is because stimulant medications work faster and produce more immediate effects, and are better overall at reducing the symptoms of ADHD. Atomoxetine is, however, much less addictive, and non-stimulant ADHD drug abuse is less common.

Atomoxetine abuse and addiction are not the same thing, though they are closely related and can occur at the same time. It is important to know the signs of ADHD medication abuse and addiction.

Drug abuse refers to using a drug outside of its intended purpose. In the case of atomoxetine, this refers to taking larger doses, using it without a prescription, or combining it with other substances.

Not only can this behavior be dangerous in the short term, but it can also lead to dependency and addiction in the long term.

Drug addiction, on the other hand, refers to the compulsive use of atomoxetine and using it despite it having negative consequences for the person’s life.

These negative consequences often include relationship problems and issues at work or school, potentially leading to further financial and legal consequences as well.

Repeatedly abusing atomoxetine may lead to dependency-like behaviors, even though the drug itself does not lead to a physical dependency.

This is because a person can become psychologically dependent with time, and start to believe that they need the drug to function normally.

As a nonstimulant medication, atomoxetine does not cause dependence in the traditional sense. There may still be the potential for atomoxetine dependence in some users, however.

Atomoxetine does not cause physical dependence the way some other substances do; however, it still affects the brain’s ability to regulate certain neurotransmitters. In fact, it is considered a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) because it increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain.

Any time there are changes in the brain, there is a possibility for psychological dependence – a risk that becomes worse with prolonged use of atomoxetine.

Psychological dependence on ADHD meds can make a person feel as though they are unable to function without them, even if they do not experience discomfort or pain when not on them.

A person in this position likely thinks and believes truly that they will not be able to be themselves or perform their daily activities without atomoxetine.

People may still feel “hooked” on atomoxetine, despite there being no physical withdrawal symptoms, because they have developed a psychological dependence on it.

Psychological dependence can be just as dangerous as physical dependence in some instances, and may cause people to relapse if they are not careful.

It is important to know the signs and symptoms of atomoxetine abuse and addiction, especially if you or a loved one has a current prescription for this medication.

When someone is addicted to atomoxetine or another substance, there are usually several behavioral indications of their use.

Behavioral changes from atomoxetine addiction include:

• Doctor shopping
• Secretive use
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Changes in social circle
• Reckless and impulsive behavior

Atomoxetine addiction can also cause uncomfortable physical side effects that may be obvious to other people.

Physical signs of atomoxetine addiction include:

• Irregular sleep
• Weight changes
• Gastrointestinal distress
• Eye changes
• Skin and hair issues
• Suppressed appetite

In addition to behavioral and physical signs of addiction, someone who is abusing atomoxetine may also show certain social and behavioral changes.

Social and emotional signs of atomoxetine addiction include:

• Acting isolated or withdrawn
• Increased anxiety and depression
• Irritability when not using the drug
• Loss of interest in usual activities and hobbies
• Mood swings

People who use atomoxetine are unlikely to experience withdrawal in the traditional sense, but may still experience some discomfort.

Atomoxetine detox symptoms are generally mild and non-life-threatening. However, individuals who have been using the medication for a long time may experience more significant difficulties due to the higher levels of the drug that have built up in their systems.

For those who have used atomoxetine long-term, it is advisable to taper off the medication gradually and comfortably, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Atomoxetine withdrawal can cause uncomfortable symptoms, though these are generally considered mild and not dangerous for most people.

Atomoxetine withdrawal symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Concentration problems
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Sleep disturbances

The ADHD med withdrawal symptoms of atomoxetine are not life-threatening and rarely serious, but people may still benefit from medical supervision when discontinuing use.

A healthcare professional can help a person discontinuing their atomoxetine use to taper off at a rate that is comfortable and safe, as well as monitor them for any symptoms or side effects.

While atomoxetine can be a very helpful treatment option for addressing ADHD symptoms, it is not without side effects.

Atomoxetine can have some unpleasant side effects that become worse when the drug is abused or misused.

Common side effects of atomoxetine abuse include:

• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Decreased appetite
• Upset stomach
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Weight loss

Side effects for atomoxetine are uncommon, but may be more common and more severe when misusing or abusing the drug.

Serious side effects of atomoxetine abuse may include:

• Liver damage
• Increased heart rate
• Mood swings
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

The longer a person abuses atomoxetine, the more serious the potential adverse effects may become, including those involving mental health and the cardiovascular system.

Atomoxetine increases a person’s heart rate and blood pressure, which can result in cardiac risks over time, especially when the drug is misused or abused. These risks are even greater for people who have pre-existing heart conditions.

While anyone who is prescribed atomoxetine faces a potential for addiction, there are additional factors that make certain people more likely to become addicted to it.

One of the single biggest factors in determining who’s at risk for atomoxetine misuse or addiction at some point is if they have a family history of addiction or substance abuse. Not only is someone predisposed to substance use genetically if they have a family member who abuses drugs, but this also likely gives them easier access to substances at home.

Someone who has a co-occurring disorder, such as anxiety or depression, may abuse atomoxetine as a way of self-medicating if they believe it eases their symptoms. Abusing atomoxetine can actually make these conditions worse, especially if a person experiences withdrawal when they aren’t taking it.

Anytime someone uses a prescription drug like atomoxetine recreationally, they are putting themselves at risk for developing addiction. If they enjoy its effects, they may find themselves taking it more and more often, which can eventually lead to a tolerance building up and a heightened risk for addiction.

It is not uncommon for adolescents and young adults who are in high school or college to use atomoxetine and other ADHD medications as a way of seeking academic enhancement.

ADHD med abuse in teens can be dangerous, especially for those who do not have a prescription and are attempting to determine the correct dosage for themselves without medical guidance.

Addiction to any type of substance can only be officially diagnosed by a healthcare provider or mental health care professional.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is an important tool used in psychiatry to diagnose mental health conditions, including addiction. In order to be diagnosed with a substance use disorder, people must fit certain criteria outlined by the DSM-5.

DSM criteria for drug addiction include:

• Taking more of a substance than intended or for longer than planned.
• Being unable to reduce or control substance use despite wanting to.
• Having strong cravings for the substance.
• Experience withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
• Neglecting responsibilities due to substance use.
• Using the substance in situations where it is hazardous, such as while driving.
• Continuing use despite the substance causing physical or psychological health problems.

An atomoxetine addiction diagnosis involves a full medical and psychological assessment. It is important to undergo both of these substance use evaluations to understand how severe a person’s addiction is.

These assessments can also help to determine an individual’s needs and how their treatment plan can best be outlined.

Atomoxetine may not fit into any typical substance use categories as a non-stimulant, but may be treated more as a general substance use disorder.

When someone has a broader substance use disorder, they are not necessarily addicted to one specific substance in particular, but are more prone to addictive behaviors in general.

The following are questions that are commonly asked about atomoxetine addiction.

If you are living with Strattera or atomoxetine addiction, or even just misuse at this point, it may be a good time to seek professional help for atomoxetine addiction.

Furthermore, know that we consider addiction to be a medical condition, not a moral failing. At RehabNet, we truly understand how difficult it can be to overcome addiction, and we are dedicated to providing tools that can provide support for atomoxetine abuse.

To explore the available support and treatment programs in your area, please do not hesitate to reach out to us through our contact form or by calling our free and confidential hotline.

Help is here, and it is never too late to begin your recovery journey or to help a loved one through theirs. Contact us today for your confidential drug help resource.