Atomoxetine

In Aotearoa New Zealand atomoxetine is available as capsules and comes in different strengths: 10mg, 18mg, 25mg, 40mg, 60mg, 80mg and 100mg.

• The dose of atomoxetine will be different for different people, depending on your body weight and your response to the medication.
• Always take your atomoxetine exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much atomoxetine to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

• Take atomoxetine once or twice a day: Atomoxetine is usually taken once a day, in the morning. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend dividing the dose into 2, taking the first part of the dose in the morning and the other part late afternoon or early evening. Take your medicine at about the same time each day.
• Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water: You can take your dose with or without food.
• Keep taking atomoxetine regularly: Atomoxetine doesn't work straight away. It may take a few weeks before you notice some change in your symptoms. It's important to keep taking your medicine even if you feel well. From time to time your doctor will assess the treatment to make sure it's still required. This may involve stopping atomoxetine for a short while.
• Missed dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take it at the right time. Don't take double the dose.

Here are some things to know when you're taking atomoxetine. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

• Check the strength of your capsules. Each time you collect a supply of atomoxetine, check that the capsules are the strength that you're expecting. There are several strengths of atomoxetine capsule. You will be given a strength that fits with your doctor's recommendations. If you are unsure about the dose and strength of capsule you are taking, talk to your pharmacist. Your dose may change over time.     
• Atomoxetine and other medicines or supplements: Atomoxetine can interact with some medications, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting atomoxetine and before starting any new products.

Like all medicines, atomoxetine  can cause unwanted side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often unwanted side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.