From the Research
Atomoxetine may be beneficial for individuals with ADHD and comorbid OCD symptoms, particularly when OCD symptoms are exacerbated by poor attention control, as evidenced by a study published in 2022 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The medication primarily works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and reduce impulsivity in ADHD.
- Some patients with comorbid ADHD and OCD experience improvement in both conditions when taking atomoxetine.
- Typical dosing for adults starts at 40mg daily, gradually increasing to 80-100mg daily as needed and tolerated, as seen in a study from 2015 2.
- For children, dosing is weight-based, usually starting at 0.5mg/kg/day and potentially increasing to 1.2mg/kg/day.
- Treatment should continue for at least 6-8 weeks to properly assess effectiveness.
- Common side effects include nausea, decreased appetite, fatigue, and sometimes increased heart rate or blood pressure.
- First-line treatments specifically for OCD typically include SSRIs and cognitive behavioral therapy, so if OCD symptoms are severe, a combination approach or different medication might be more appropriate, as suggested by a study from 2011 3.
- Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized treatment recommendations, considering the latest guidelines and research, such as the study from 2021 4 that highlights the efficacy and safety of atomoxetine in children with ADHD.