What time of day should you take Strattera (Atomoxetine)?

Optimal Timing for Taking Strattera (Atomoxetine)

Strattera (atomoxetine) can be taken either as a single daily dose in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the morning and late afternoon/early evening, depending on tolerability and effectiveness. 1

Administration Options

• Atomoxetine can be administered either as a single daily dose in the morning or split into two equal doses administered in the morning and evening 2, 1
• The FDA-approved label specifically states that Strattera can be administered "either as a single daily dose in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the morning and late afternoon/early evening" 1
• If needed, atomoxetine can also be administered in the evening only to reduce adverse effects 2

Factors Affecting Timing Decision

Benefits of Morning Administration:

• Single morning dosing has been shown to be effective throughout the day and into the evening 3
• Morning administration provides "around-the-clock" effects that last throughout the waking hours 4
• Effects can persist up to the next morning with a single morning dose 4

Benefits of Evening or Split Dosing:

• Splitting the dose into morning and evening administration may help reduce adverse effects 2
• Evening-only dosing can be considered if daytime side effects are problematic 2
• Unlike stimulants that may cause insomnia, atomoxetine is less likely to disrupt sleep when taken later in the day 3

Practical Considerations

• Strattera can be taken with or without food 1
• Capsules should be taken whole and are not intended to be opened 1
• Unlike stimulants, atomoxetine has "around-the-clock" effects rather than immediate onset and offset 2
• Treatment effects are not usually observed until several weeks (6-12 weeks) after initiation of treatment 2

Special Populations

• For patients with moderate hepatic impairment, doses should be reduced to 50% of the normal dose 1
• For patients with severe hepatic impairment, doses should be reduced to 25% of normal 1
• For patients taking strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine) or who are known CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, dosing adjustments are recommended 1

Common Side Effects to Consider When Timing Doses

• Unlike some other ADHD medications (particularly stimulants), atomoxetine is less likely to cause sleep disturbances when taken later in the day 3
• Common side effects that may influence timing include dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea, fatigue, and somnolence 3, 5
• If somnolence is a significant side effect, evening administration may be preferable 2

Key Takeaway

The optimal time to take Strattera depends on individual response and side effect profile. Starting with a single morning dose is reasonable for most patients, with the option to split the dose or move to evening administration if side effects are problematic. The medication's "around-the-clock" effect means it will work throughout the day regardless of dosing time, unlike stimulants that have more immediate onset and offset of action 2, 3.