Strattera and Alcohol Know The Risks, Interactions, and Effects
Strattera, a non-stimulant medication commonly prescribed for ADHD, has transformed treatment options for those seeking alternatives to stimulant-based therapies. However, taking Strattera and consuming alcohol can pose significant risks to your health and the medication’s efficacy.
This article explores the question, can you drink on Strattera? It also outlines the risks and adverse side effects of mixing Strattera and alcohol. Understanding these interactions is crucial for anyone prescribed Strattera to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively.
Strattera is the commercial name for Atomoxetine, which is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children (6 years and older). Atomoxetine was originally released in 2002; it was the first FDA-approved non-stimulant to treat ADHD [4].
Strattera is occasionally prescribed for off-label uses of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (a fancy medical term for dizzy spells and lightheadedness) [5]. Strattera also showed positive results for adults with ADHD and comorbid (partially responsive) major depressive disorder [5].
No, drinking alcohol on Strattera is not safe or recommended by physicians due to the adverse drug interaction. Both Alcohol and Strattera affect specific receptors in the brain. The harmful effects of consuming alcohol can counteract the beneficial effects of Strattera for someone with ADHD.
Many naturally occurring hormones and chemicals in our brains release and speak to other neurons to accomplish important bodily functions. Norepinephrine (NE) is a hormone that works within the central nervous system (CNS) to promote wakefulness, arousal, and even cognitive behaviors like attention and memory [7].
Strattera and Alcohol both influence NE. Strattera blocks the reuptake of NE within the nervous system. This blockage increases the concentration of NE in the brain, allowing for better mediation of attention, hyperactivity, and executive function [4].
Alcohol also increases NE. When these two substances are combined, there can be a surplus of NE – which is dangerous. This increase can lead to cardiovascular issues, kidney damage, and other symptoms like cold skin, sweating, nervousness, adrenal gland tumors, and headaches.
Alcohol can significantly hinder the effectiveness of your Strattera medication, and ongoing alcohol consumption alongside this medication can lead to serious medical conditions.
Strattera works similarly to riboxetine, an SNRI (selective norepinephrine reuptake). Strattera blocks the norepinephrine reuptake transporter (NET). By blocking this transporter, it stops the “sucking up” of excess norepinephrine (NE) in the nervous system, allowing for more NE to bind to receptors and spread through the system.
Strattera’s ability to alter NE levels allows it to assist with common ADHD symptoms such as “procrastination, impulsivity, difficulty with time management, and challenges in executing long-term goals” [1].
People with ADHD typically have lower levels of norepinephrine (NE) and another neurotransmitter called dopamine. Known as the “happy” hormone, dopamine also drives us to pursue short and long-term goals, explaining why individuals with ADHD may struggle with procrastination. However, these deficiencies aren’t permanent, and at times, the effects of ADHD on the brain may produce uneven focus, leading to hyperfocus on just one task [1].
ADHD’s fluctuations and treatments are still being studied. Medications like Strattera can help, but there are risks and side effects, especially when misused or mixed with alcohol.
Notably, Strattera is not a stimulant ADHD medication like its counterparts—Adderall, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine—which are amphetamines. While amphetamines block the reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and sometimes serotonin, Strattera primarily affects norepinephrine.
Stimulants, though effective, carry a significant risk of addiction, which is why drugs like Adderall are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances. In contrast, Strattera is not a controlled substance, though a prescription is still required. Additionally, studies have shown that Strattera has a very low potential for abuse [2].
As with many prescription medications, alcohol is often not advisable. You should not drink alcohol with Strattera as it can significantly worsen the potential side effects of Atomoxetine (Strattera). These side effects include:
Most of these side effects typically don’t require immediate medical attention, but alcohol consumption habits can worsen them. Alcohol may increase dehydration, and in cases of excessive or heavy drinking, the risk of severe complications may rise, potentially leading to hospitalization.
More severe effects of Strattera (Atimoxetine) include:
If you or someone else are experiencing these more severe effects of Strattera, contact emergency medical services immediately.
You should not drink alcohol while taking Strattera, as it can worsen side effects and interfere with the effectiveness of the ADHD medication. If alcohol is part of your routine or you’re struggling with alcohol dependence, it’s vital to discuss your drinking habits with your doctor to find a treatment plan that works best for you.
For those dealing with alcohol addiction, it is crucial to seek support from healthcare professionals or specialized treatment programs to manage both alcohol use and ADHD safely.
Strattera is a non-stimulant ADHD medication that can improve focus, impulsivity, and time management issues commonly seen in ADHD. It should not be used with alcohol because the combination can create adverse symptoms like extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function.
Although Strattera has a low abuse record, the inability to stop drinking alcohol may put you or others at risk. If you or someone else is struggling with alcohol addiction, California Detox offers personalized treatment administered by expert clinicians. Our programs provide:
Find effective treatment for alcohol addiction today by calling our recovery team at (888) 995-4208.
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