Strattera (atomoxetine) is a different sort
of ADHD medication. Strattera works by selectively
blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine, a chemical
messenger, or neurotransmitter, by certain nerve cells in
the brain. This action increases the availability of
norepinephrine, which is thought to be essential in
regulating impulse control, organization and attention. The
precise mechanism by which Strattera works on ADHD is not
known. Because of its unique structure it may be less
prone to abuse than other ADHD medications.
In December 2004
Strattera's labeling was updated with a bolded warning about
the potential for severe liver injury following two reports
(a teenager and an adult) in patients who had been treated
with Strattera for several months, both of whom recovered.