Atomoxetine (ATX)

Atomoxetine is a drug approved for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI), not to be confused with serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), both of which are currently the most prescribed form of antidepressants. Classified as a norepinephrine (noradrenaline) reuptake inhibitor, atomoxetine is approved for use in children, adolescents, and adults. However, its efficacy has not been studied in children under six years old. Its primary advantage over the standard stimulant treatments for ADHD is that it has no abuse potential. The initial therapeutic effects of atomoxetine usually take 2-4 weeks to be become apparent.[1] A further 2-4 weeks may be required for the full therapeutic effects to be seen. Its efficacy may be less than that of stimulant medications.