STRATTERA LINKED TO SUICIDIAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
Reports of suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts by adolescents and children taking the hyperactivity drug Strattera (atomoxetine) became public in 2006. Other children have suffered side effects including fits, palpitations, and liver disorders. Safety warnings will be placed on the packaging to indicate that suicidal thoughts/attempts may be associated with the use of Strattera.
In a report made public in February 2006, 20 patients reportedly committed suicide after taking Strattera, and 63 others attempted suicide. Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Strattera, revealed in September 2005 that some children taking Strattera had experienced suicidal thoughts and behavior.
Strattera has also previously been linked to death from heart problems and liver problems. In February 2006, and FDA advisory committee recommended that Strattera carry a major black box warning of heart attacks and strokes. The FDA voiced concerns about Strattera last year, but did not address these concerns until just recently.
Strattera is a daily medication that is prescribed to children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It works to increase they body's production of dopamine, which allows the children to be better able to focus. Strattera is approved to treat ADD and ADHD in children as well as Adult ADD. It has not been tested in children under six years of age, however.
Strattera is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, and is the only non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for treating ADD and ADHD.
ADD and ADHD are marked by impulsivity and inattention, and ADHD also involves hyperactive behavior.
If a child or adolescent is observed to be suffering from suicidal thoughts or behavior, they should immediately be evaluated by a physician. The use of Strattera may be temporarily or permanently discontinued.
Likewise, if symptoms of heart or liver damage are observed, a physician may discontinue the use of Strattera and treat the symptoms of the organ damage. Liver damage treatment may involve the prescription of diuretics and vitamins, and if an infection occurs, antibiotics may be prescribed. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be needed.
If
you or a member of your family has taken Strattera, then you may qualify for a lawsuit
claim. Thousands of people have already
filed claims.
In
America today there are thousands of mass lawsuits and billions of dollars in unclaimed
monies available for victims. If you have
been wronged by a major corporation, you may
be entitled to compensation for treatments
and pain and suffering. |