Strattera

Why should Strattera not be prescribed?

Do not take Strattera within 2 weeks of taking any drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate. The combination can cause severe--even fatal--reactions, including symptoms such as high fever, rigid muscles, rapid changes in heart rate, delirium, and coma.

You should also avoid Strattera if you have narrow angle glaucoma (high pressure in the eye), or if the drug causes an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Strattera

Strattera can speed up the heart and boost blood pressure. Use it with caution if you have high blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, heart disease, or any other circulation problem.

On the other hand, Strattera can also cause an attack of low blood pressure when you first stand up. Use it with caution if you have a condition, such as severe dehydration, that can cause low blood pressure.

Because Strattera sometimes causes sluggishness, be careful when operating machinery or driving until you know how the drug affects you.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Strattera

Remember that Strattera must never be combined with MAO inhibitors (see "Why should this drug not be prescribed?"). Also, the doctor will probably prescribe a lower dose of Strattera if you are taking one of the following:

Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Paroxetine (Paxil)
Quinidine (Quinidex)

Due to the possibility of boosted effects, you should check with your doctor before combining Strattera with the following:

Proventil and similar asthma medications
Drugs that raise blood pressure, such as the phenylephrine in some over-the-counter cold medications.

If you are unsure about a particular medication--whether prescription or over-the-counter--make a point of asking your doctor.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Strattera has not been studied in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Strattera should not be taken during pregnancy unless its benefits justify the potential risk to the baby.

It is not known whether Strattera makes its way into breast milk. Caution is warranted if you plan to nurse.