Posted by linkadge on July 11, 2020, at 8:02:28
In reply to Questions about Strattera (and Fluanxol), posted by NKP on July 10, 2020, at 8:38:43
Hi there,
I'm in a similar situation. I have been diagnosed with ADD, but the diagnosis doesn't fit 100%. I'm also not sure if the attention problems are more a result of other medications. That being said, straterra does help with a number of symptoms. Like yourself, I only take 25mg. I have no plans to increase because this dose is working.
Straterra is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. This means in primarily increases the level of norepinephrine in the brain. Norepinephrine levels are linked to things like energy, motivation, attention, working memory etc. While it is approved only for ADD/ADHD it has been used off label alongside SSRIs for secondary symptoms like energy levels, concentration etc. SSRIs like zoloft, can make attention worse for some people.
In terms of whether Fluanxol will cancel out the straterra, it is a bit complex, but the short answer is no. Although atomoxetine is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, it can also increase dopamine levels in certain brain regions (i.e. the prefrontal cortex). The reason for this is that, in the prefrontal cortex, dopamine is cleared out (to an extent) by the norepinephrine transporter. Increasing dopamine in the prefrontal cortex can help concentration, motivation etc. Now, I'm not sure what symptoms you are taking the Fluanxol for. However, you are taking it in the lower dose range (perhaps more as a sedative)? As you mention, low doses may activate dopamine in certain brain regions. If it does block dopamine to some extent, the atomoxetine will counteract this. Also, the Fluanxol doesn't block norepinephrine.
As far as side effects and action, straterra can take some time to reach its full therapeutic effect. I noticed improvement in the first week and continued improvement into the 2nd and third weeks. Side effects however, typically appear early in treatment. So, if you don't have a side effect now, chances are low that one will suddenly appear (although anything is possible). The main thing to watch with straterra is your blood pressure and pulse. In terms of dose, my doctor said it can vary quite a bit from person to person. I've read this online too. Yes, 80mg may be required for bad ADHD, just as 3-6mg of Fluanxol may be required for schizophrenia.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:1111221
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20200711/msgs/1111236.html