What is the recommended dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) for a 10-year-old child?

From the Guidelines

The recommended dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) for a 10-year-old child is 1.2-1.4 mg/kg/day, with a maximum dose of 100 mg/day, and should be titrated based on the child's weight and response to treatment, as stated in the most recent study 1. When determining the dose, it is essential to consider the child's weight, as the medication is prescribed based on a weight-based approach.

• The dose is typically started at a lower amount and gradually increased to the target dose.
• The medication works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain to improve attention and reduce impulsivity in children with ADHD.
• Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and somnolence, as reported in the study 1.
• Regular monitoring is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust the dose as needed, while also watching for signs of suicidality, clinical worsening, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of treatment or at times of dose change 1.
• It is also important to note that some children may be poor metabolizers of atomoxetine, which can lead to higher plasma levels and longer half-lives, increasing the risk of adverse effects 1.
• Only a qualified healthcare provider can determine the appropriate dose and monitor the child's response to treatment, taking into account their individual medical history, weight, symptom severity, and potential drug interactions.

From the FDA Drug Label

Atomoxetine capsules should be initiated at a total daily dose of approximately 0.5 mg/kg and increased after a minimum of 3 days to a target total daily dose of approximately 1.2 mg/kg administered either as a single daily dose in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the morning and late afternoon/early evening. The total daily dose in children and adolescents should not exceed 1.4 mg/kg or 100 mg, whichever is less

For a 10-year-old child, assuming an average weight, the recommended dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) would be:

• Initial dose: approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day
• Target dose: approximately 1.2 mg/kg/day
• Maximum dose: not to exceed 1.4 mg/kg/day or 100 mg, whichever is less 2

From the Research

Recommended Dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) for a 10-year-old Child

• The recommended dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not explicitly stated in the provided studies for a 10-year-old child.
• However, according to the study 3, data from acute studies of atomoxetine in patients with ADHD suggest that a dose of approximately 1.2 mg/kg per day is required to attain a maximal symptom response.
• The study 3 also mentions that lower doses, such as 0.5 mg/kg per day, could be effective during maintenance treatment, which would reduce drug exposure and potential problems related to tolerability during chronic treatment.
• It is essential to note that the dose of atomoxetine should be individualized based on the patient's response and tolerability, as stated in the study 4.
• The study 5 emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate medication and dose based on individualized pharmacokinetic considerations, taking into account the patient's age, size, and level of organ maturity.
• The studies 6 and 7 provide information on the efficacy and safety of atomoxetine in adults and children with ADHD, but do not specifically address the recommended dose for a 10-year-old child.
• Therefore, the recommended dose of Strattera (Atomoxetine) for a 10-year-old child should be determined by a healthcare professional, considering the individual patient's needs and response to treatment, as well as the information provided in the studies 4, 5, and 3.