Question

A nursing instructor is teaching about pharmacological treatments for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which information about atomoxetine (Strattera) should be included in the lesson plan?

1) Strattera, unlike methylphenidate (Ritalin), is a central nervous system depressant.
2) When taking Strattera, a client should eliminate all red food coloring from the diet.
3) Strattera will be a life-long intervention for clients diagnosed with this disorder.
4) Strattera, unlike methylphenidate (Ritalin), is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.

Answer 1

The nursing instructor should teach that atomoxetine (Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, not a central nervous system depressant, and there is no need to eliminate red food coloring from the diet. Atomoxetine's role as a life-long intervention is not guaranteed for every client with ADHD and needs to be evaluated on an individual basis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nursing instructor should include that atomoxetine (Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which differs from methylphenidate (Ritalin) that is a central nervous system stimulant. While methylphenidate works by increasing neurotransmitter activity within areas of the brain like the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, atomoxetine works primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, helping to improve attention and reduce impulsivity in individuals with ADHD. It's important to note that atomoxetine is not a central nervous system depressant and there is no need to eliminate red food coloring from the diet when taking Strattera. Additionally, whether or not Strattera will be a life-long intervention varies from client to client and is not a given for all those diagnosed with ADHD.