Strattera Invulnerable to Suicidal Risk

Strattera is considered to be a safe alternative to amphetamine-laced, stimulant attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD) drugs. However, Strattera is not resistant to one of the most dangerous side effects of Strattera that is a higher risk of suicide among teens and children. Eli Lilly, a leading pharmaceutical company manufactures it. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Strattera for the use in children, teens and adults as it was first non stimulant ADHD drug available in the market. Due to severe side effects associated with the drug, FDA issued a “Black Box Warning” against the drug. It is one of the strongest warnings given by FDA to any drug.

Strattera – An Insight

Strattera is used for treating attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD) and it is considered as safe non-stimulant alternative as compared to other ADHD drugs. Eli-Lilly manufactures it. The drug came to light in 2005 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued black box warning against the drug due to the severe side effects associated with the drug including suicidal ideation. Children and teenagers are at an increased risk of this drug. Parents of the children using Strattera should monitor the suicidal intention and mood swings of their children. Strattera was researched as an anti depressant. However, now it is an alternative for the patients looking for non-amphetamine-based ADHD drugs.

Defining Strattera

Strattera, generically known as atomoxetine, entered clinical trials as an anti-depressant drug. However, it was used for treating ADHD as the clinical trials found no anti – depressant benefits associated with the drug. Strattera reduces the uptake of a hormone called atomoxetine affecting the brain chemistry. It allows the brain to concentrate and focus for longer time, an important benefit for the patients suffering from decreased concentration levels and low focus because of ADHD.

Strattera has not been found to be addictive or considered as a controlled chemical.  It was the first drug to be considered as a safer alternative to ADHD drugs like Adderall or Ritalin. Unlike other amphetamine drugs, Strattera does not create mania among the patients using it. However, it leads to dizziness, restlessness and hallucinations when taken in higher doses. It is believed that Strattera aggravates pre – existing nervousness like panic attacks and social phobias. Other side effects of Strattera include sexual dysfunction, liver damage and drowsiness.

Suicidal Ideation

According to a study conducted in 2005, although Strattera was considered as a safe drug to ADHD, it was associated to the child suicidal ideation. This study was conducted on 1,357 patients. Of these 1,357 patients five cases of suicidal plan or suicidal ideation and one suicide was reported whereas none of the 851 patients taking placebo experienced suicidal attempts or suicidal thoughts. This study was similar to the studies or researches indicating increased risk of suicidal attempts or suicidal ideation among the patients using Paxil, Adderall and Concerta. In September 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning letter indicating that the use of Strattera may cause suicidal thinking among teens and children. FDA advised parents to monitor the children using Strattera for irritability, mood swings expression of suicidal behavior and anxiety.

If you believe that you or your child has been suffering from the side effects of Strattera, than immediately seek the advice of a doctor. Therefore, contact an experienced attorney who will assist you in filing a potential lawsuit against the manufacturers of the drug.  He will evaluate whether you are eligible for the damages like compensation fro suffering and pain, lost wages, current and future medical expenses.