Strattera and metabolism
Hi,
I’ve been taking atomoxetine (Strattera) for several months now. I started with a gradual increase in dosage until I reached 80 mg. At first, I experienced light side effects like sweating, a bit of irritability, and sadness for a few hours after taking it… but I never felt any benefit.
After a blood test to check my atomoxetine levels, we realized that my residual levels were so low it was as if I wasn’t taking it at all. Even though I may have missed a dose a few times over the past 9 months, I made sure to take it correctly the week before the blood test.
My dose was increased to 100 mg two weeks ago and I had to get another blood test this week. I’m still waiting for the results. The only positive effect I’ve noticed is that I’m now feeling the benefits of energy drinks. I’ve also noticed that my eyelid is twitching, but that might have nothing to do with it.
But, practically speaking, if my residual level remains low, can my psychiatrist still increase my dosage further (I’m a 53kg woman) or will he have to consider stimulants ? Do you have similar experiences to share ? To my knowledge, I don’t eat anything that could interfere with the medication and I don't take any other medication at all, so I imagine I might be a CYP2D6 fast metabolizer.