Atomoxetine (Strattera, Attentin)

<p>From: Reviving the Broken Marionette: Treatments for CFS/ME and Fibromyalgia</p>

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Atomoxetine increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It is most often used to treat ADHD. For some reason it has not been studied for fibromyalgia. Atomoxetine has also been shown to increase the levels of acetylcholine in some parts of the brain, an effect which can improve cognitive function.83 Other cholinergic drugs have sometimes yielded good results in the treatment of CFS/ME.

Headache, dry mouth, insomnia, stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting are common side effects of atomoxetine. It may also cause cardiac problems and dysmenorrhea (painful periods). A few cases of severe liver injury associated with the treatment have been reported. Weight loss is fairly common. E.g. fluoxetine, paroxetine and ropinirole may increase the blood levels of atomoxetine.

Atomoxetine is available in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and many other markets. It is more expensive than most other antidepressants. The Strattera formulation is similarly priced per dose regardless of strength, but unfortunately for the patients it is sold in capsules, which makes it difficult to divide them.</p>