Strattera (Atomoxetine) is a drug used to treat adults, adolescents, and children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can be used either on its own or with other psychostimulants. To increase alertness, concentration, and memory, it is also utilized as a cognitive enhancer.
Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors like Strattera function by boosting norepinephrine levels in the brain and central nervous system. A neurotransmitter in the brain called norepinephrine helps to decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity while promoting focus and attention span. Most commonly, Strattera is used to treat ADHD, but it may have some off-label uses for anxiety hence raising the question: why is Strattera so expensive?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized Strattera as the first and only non-stimulant medicine for the treatment of ADHD in the US. It was also the first non-stimulant drug to be authorized for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
How Does Strattera Work?
- Evidence suggests that dysregulation in noradrenergic and dopaminergic pathways plays a significant role in inadequate executive functioning within prefrontal regions of the brain, which are important in attention and memory, even though the pathophysiology causing ADHD is yet unknown.
- Strattera, a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is thought to function by raising the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex region of the brain rise as a result. (A region of the brain behind the eyes.)
- It might be beneficial to improve one’s capacity for concentration, focus, and attention while also getting one to quit fidgeting. It is believed to function by reestablishing the proper balance of a few natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
Strattera Side Effects:
Mild side effects that have been reported with Strattera include:
- Dry mouth
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Increase in blood pressure
These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. This drug raises many side effects and the big question too: Why is Strattera so expensive?
Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:
- Mood changes
- Hallucination
- Anger or aggression
- Depression
- Liver problems
- Heart problems
- Urinary problems
- Priapism (an erection that doesn’t go away)
What can you do?
- The risk of suicidal thoughts is most common at the start of Strattera treatment or after a dose increase. Your child’s doctor will monitor their symptoms throughout treatment, especially at the start or during a dose change.
- Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Strattera.
- Glaucoma with a narrow angle. Before taking Strattera, let your doctor know if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, an eye disease. This medicine may make the signs and symptoms of this illness worse.
- Ailments relating to the mind. The mood-altering drug Strattera may do so. Additionally, it might make the signs of some illnesses—like bipolar disorder or depression—worse. Before beginning treatment, disclose to your doctor if you have a condition that affects your mood. They can aid in determining your safety when using Strattera.
- An allergic response. Your doctor is unlikely to recommend Strattera if you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to it or any of its components. Inquire with them about any additional medications that might be better for you.
- Heart issues. Before you begin taking Strattera, let your doctor know if you have a condition that affects your heart rate or blood pressure. This medication raises blood pressure and speeds up the heartbeat. These adverse effects could exacerbate any existing heart conditions you may have. If you have a serious cardiac condition, your doctor might not recommend Strattera because of this risk. They can, however, suggest alternate therapies for your disease.
Strattera Usage:
- Only use this medication as prescribed by your doctor. Never take it in larger or fewer amounts, more frequently, or for a longer period than recommended by your doctor. Do not increase the dose if you or your child feels that this medication is not working as it should after many weeks of use. Consult your physician.
- Inhale the capsule completely. Do not open, chew, break, or crush it. This medication can be used with or without food.
- Do not handle a broken or opened capsule. If you do touch an opened capsule, immediately wash your hands with water.
- The dosage of this medication will vary depending on the patient. Observe your doctor’s instructions or the label’s instructions. The following details only the typical dosages of this medication. Unless your doctor instructs you to, do not alter your dose if it differs from the recommended one.
- The potency of the medication will determine how much you need to take. Additionally, the medical condition for which you are utilizing the medication determines the number of doses you take each day.
Missed Dose:
- Take the missed dose of this medication as soon as you remember.
- If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed one and resume your regular dosing regimen.
- No two doses at once.
Strattera Cost with and without insurance:
How much is Strattera without insurance?
The cost of Strattera (Atomoxetine) can vary significantly depending on factors such as the dosage strength, the number of capsules, the pharmacy you visit, and whether you have insurance coverage or not.
Without insurance coverage, the retail price for a one-month supply of Strattera can range from approximately $400 to $600 or more, depending on the dosage strength and quantity of capsules. This cost can vary between pharmacies and locations.
To be precise, Strattera costs $553.36 for 30 tablets of 40MG capsules without insurance. You can use your time to do research online and visit LifeRx Pharmacy to find Strattera discounts, further saving time and money and the burden of the “Why is Strattera so expensive” question.
How much is Strattera with insurance?
With insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket cost for Strattera will depend on your specific insurance plan, including factors such as copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and whether Strattera is listed on your plan’s formulary.
Many insurance plans cover prescription medications like Strattera, but the amount you pay out-of-pocket can vary widely. Some plans may require a copayment (a fixed amount) or coinsurance (a percentage of the total cost), while others may cover the entire cost after you meet your deductible.
It’s essential to check with your insurance provider or pharmacist to determine your exact out-of-pocket cost for Strattera with your insurance coverage.
Your copay for Strattera will depend on your insurance coverage since every insurance plan is unique. If your out-of-pocket expenses with insurance are too high, ordering with LifeRx Pharmacy will lower the cost to $20 to $50 for 30 pills of 40mg Strattera.
Talk to your pharmacist about comparing Strattera prices when using insurance versus buying Strattera online.
How to save on Strattera?
Strattera is produced by Eli Lilly and Co. If there are any Strattera manufacturer coupons available, you can speak with the manufacturer to find out more. Programs for qualified individuals to receive free or significantly reduced access to their prescriptions for Strattera include the Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Assistance Programme and Rx Outreach Medications.
Use your prescription and search LifeRx Pharmacy online if you are ineligible for this form of financial aid. This can help in a variety of ways, including decreasing the amount of time spent in lengthy lines, spending a lot of money on the medication, acquiring the proper product, and easing the frowns of those who wonder why Strattera is so expensive.
When will Strattera go generic?
The generic is available. The first generic versions of Strattera (atomoxetine), used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both children and adults, have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Atomoxetine was given the go-ahead to be marketed in various strengths by Apotex Inc., Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., Aurobindo Pharma Limited, and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited.
FDA-approved generic prescription medications are of the same high caliber and potency as name-brand medications. The production and packaging facilities for generic prescription medications must meet the same high requirements as those for name-brand medications.
A continuing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that hinders functioning or growth is a hallmark of ADHD.
One can buy Strattera online from LifeRx Pharmacy. Furthermore, this can lessen the burden of the question: Why is Strattera so expensive?
Buy Strattera Online:
Federal law states that you must talk to a doctor before getting any prescription medication, including Strattera. That means you can’t buy Strattera directly off a website and have it shipped to your door.
However, you can have a video or phone appointment with a licensed doctor, who can send prescriptions, and then from LifeRx Pharmacy, you can easily buy Strattera online which helps save you from the big question: why is Strattera so expensive?
Storage:
- Keep the medication at room temperature in a closed container away from heat, moisture, and bright light. prevent freezing.
- Keep the item out of children’s reach.
- Do not keep expired or no longer required medications.
- Speak with a medical practitioner about how to properly dispose of any leftover medication.
Why is Strattera so expensive?
Being a great drug to treat ADHD and impulse control, the availability of generics is less, making this the only drug in the field of treatment.
The drug manufacturers didn’t have a competition for a long time which held them responsible for not capping the medicine prices which almost blew through the years. It is still booming in most regions due to the unavailability of the drug and people find it difficult to afford such medicines.
Pharmaceutical companies must meet stringent regulatory requirements imposed by government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. Compliance with these regulations adds to the overall cost of bringing a medication to market.
Pharmaceutical companies invest in marketing and promotional activities to raise awareness of their medications among healthcare providers and consumers. These expenses can contribute to the overall cost of the drug.
Sometimes, insurance companies also fail to provide waivers on the prices which end up customers paying a lot. Also, the government not capping the price makes the drugs cost too much and unaffordable to middle-class people. Recent advances are being made in the availability of generic medicine.
FAQs:
How long does it take for Strattera to work?
Some individuals start noticing within the first few days of taking Strattera. When starting Strattera, healthcare providers often recommend a gradual titration of the dosage to find the optimal dose for each individual. It takes around 4-8 weeks for the full potential to be attained.
How long does Strattera stay in your system?
It takes 24 hours for Strattera to be eliminated from the body in adults, and around 15 to 20 hours in children and adolescents.
When to take Strattera?
Early in the morning and late afternoon/early evening are typical times to take Strattera. Speak with your doctor about the ideal time to take your medication if you discover that you feel tired during the day or have difficulties falling asleep at night. It is also advised to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels of the medication and optimize its effectiveness.
What happens if you take Strattera without ADHD?
It can largely affect the mood and personality of a person without ADHD. Plus, the side effects of medication whether taken for the disease or not are there. Common side effects of Strattera include headache, nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth, constipation, insomnia, and increased heart rate. Taking Strattera without a medical need could expose individuals to these potential side effects unnecessarily.
How does Strattera make you feel?
Apart from feeling the question: Why is Strattera so expensive? The brain and nerve chemicals that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control are impacted by Strattera. Some individuals may experience mood changes or psychiatric symptoms while taking Strattera. These can include irritability, anxiety, agitation, or suicidal thoughts. It’s essential to monitor for any changes in mood or behavior when taking Strattera.
