My Personal Experience with Strattera for Inattentive ADHD: Benefits and Challenges

I am autistic and slightly sensitive to stimulants, so my experience with Strattera may be a bit different from others. I’ve been taking Strattera in low doses of 5-20mg Immediate Release (IR) and have found it quite effective. It provides a mood boost, making everything seem more interesting and enjoyable. However, when doses surpass 40mg IR, I start to feel robotic and, at doses over 60mg IR, I become highly anxious.

Impact on Inattentive ADHD

Over the past two weeks, Strattera has shown promising results in managing my inattentive ADHD. It has increased my mental clarity and reduced impulsivity. I am now better able to complete bothersome tasks, and my overall mood and desire for life have improved. However, there are several downsides to this medication that significantly impact my daily life.

Side Effects and Their Impact

Excessive Thirst: Strattera makes me extremely thirsty throughout the day. I need constant access to water, which can be inconvenient.

Disturbed Sleep: My sleep is interrupted by vivid dreams, which can affect my rest and overall well-being.

Low Appetite: Strattera has also led to a decrease in appetite, which can be concerning.

Heart Palpitations and Low Blood Pressure: The most bothersome side effects are heart palpitations coupled with a drop in blood pressure. This causes random spikes in dizziness and fatigue, occasionally leading to a feeling of faintness.

These side effects, while unpleasant, have not been a major concern as I have discussed them with my psychiatrist. He reassures me that they are not dangerous in most cases. However, I am monitoring my heart health via regular ECG checks to ensure that I do not experience any drastic changes in my heart rate. The upside to this side effect is that it is typically short-lived, lasting only around an hour or two before subsiding.

PrevMegonauth Authorization and Initial Experience

Interestingly, Strattera required a prior authorization (PA) for me, which I found perplexing. Usually, insurance companies are willing to cover off-label medications. I tried Strattera for about six weeks but did not experience any significant improvements. My prescriber thought Wellbutrin might work eventually because it is sometimes prescribed off-label for ADHD and also treats depression. However, I’m not entirely sure if it provided any benefit, and I ended up going back on Lexapro.

Conclusion

Overall, despite the side effects, Strattera has been a significant improvement for my inattentive ADHD symptoms. While the daily challenges can be difficult to manage, the benefits of reduced impulsivity, improved mental clarity, and enhanced mood are certainly worth it. Regular monitoring of my physical health and open communication with my healthcare provider are crucial in maintaining a balanced and effective treatment plan.

Key Points:

Strattera is effective for reducing ADHD symptoms in low doses Main side effects include excessive thirst, disturbed sleep, low appetite, and heart palpitations with low blood pressure Monitor heart health regularly and communicate with a healthcare provider for best results Consult with a psychiatrist on adjusting dosages and managing side effects