Conclusion: Our findings represent the most comprehensive available evidence base to inform patients, families, clinicians, guideline developers, and policymakers on the choice of ADHD medications across age groups. Taking into account both efficacy and safety, evidence from this meta-analysis supports methylphenidate in children and adolescents, and amphetamines in adults, as preferred first-choice medications for the short-term treatment of ADHD. New research should be funded urgently to assess long-term effects of these drugs.
Atomoxetine side effects
Across 137 first-hand reports, people mentioned a side effect 22 times (about 16 per 100 reports). The most common: fatigue, nausea, insomnia. User reports show what people notice — they can't tell you whether Atomoxetine is safe for you.
Reported side effects
fatigue4
nausea4
insomnia4
drowsiness3
testicular pain2
aggression2
sexual dysfunction2
erectile dysfunction1
What got worse for some people
In their own words
“Atomoxetine made me way more impulsive and gave me sexual side effects right off the bat.”
“I've tried the traditional ADHD meds like Strattera and Guanfacine, and they don't offer any improvement.”
“Strattera is for ADHD; it helps with planning and kicking my ass into gear. I've been able to learn piano songs quicker than usual...I enjoy it.”
“Strattera made me feel like a zombie, calm but it felt too weird to continue.”
“I took strattera for about 6 months. I can say with complete certainty it was the worst experience of my life...my brain feeling like it was being squeezed at all times. All my friends told me I was basically a zombie.”
“I've been on many medications for inattentive ADHD and none of them have helped me (adderall, straterra, concerta, Dexedrine).”
Is Atomoxetine safe? What the research covers
AResearch: Strong152 meta-analyses · 268 randomized trials on PubMed
Lancet Psychiatry · 2018
Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysisMol Autism · 2022
Pharmacological and dietary-supplement treatments for autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and network meta-analysisConclusion: Some medications could improve core symptoms, although this could be likely secondary to the improvement of associated symptoms. Evidence on their efficacy and safety is preliminary; therefore, routine prescription of medications for the core symptoms cannot be recommended. Trial registration PROSPERO-ID CRD42019125317.