jacko
02-22-2003, 05:37 PM
WARNING: THIS MAY BE TOO GRAPHIC FOR SOME READERS
Howdy-
I am a 33 year old male that has been taking Strattera for around 10 days. I have been working up to 54 mg (3 x 18mg) and have been on this dose for around 4 days. I also take 100 mg of Zoloft for depression.
I have had the common side effects of constipation, drymouth, and tiredness, but those--for the most part--have subsided. I'm now, however, experiencing an odd (and uncomfortable) sensation when ejaculating. I'm not sure if this is from the Strattera alone or in combination with the Zoloft. I'm hoping others may share similar experiences? (just knowing the cause may be a bit comforting!)
Upon ejaculation, which doesn't seem to "shoot" far, I get a backed up, swelling feeling in my testicles. Of course, this is pretty painful. The severity of this feeling slowly subsides over about 5 minutes. I'm thinking this may have something to do with a swollen prostate? Is this a "retrograde" ejaculation? I'm aware of the sexual dysfunction Zoloft can cause, but I've been on it for over 2 years and have never had an experience like this. Any ideas (or shared side effects) would be appreciated and help ease my mind!
thanks,
jacko
Howdy-
I am a 33 year old male that has been taking Strattera for around 10 days. I have been working up to 54 mg (3 x 18mg) and have been on this dose for around 4 days. I also take 100 mg of Zoloft for depression.
I have had the common side effects of constipation, drymouth, and tiredness, but those--for the most part--have subsided. I'm now, however, experiencing an odd (and uncomfortable) sensation when ejaculating. I'm not sure if this is from the Strattera alone or in combination with the Zoloft. I'm hoping others may share similar experiences? (just knowing the cause may be a bit comforting!)
Upon ejaculation, which doesn't seem to "shoot" far, I get a backed up, swelling feeling in my testicles. Of course, this is pretty painful. The severity of this feeling slowly subsides over about 5 minutes. I'm thinking this may have something to do with a swollen prostate? Is this a "retrograde" ejaculation? I'm aware of the sexual dysfunction Zoloft can cause, but I've been on it for over 2 years and have never had an experience like this. Any ideas (or shared side effects) would be appreciated and help ease my mind!
thanks,
jacko
Sponsor
help
02-22-2003, 06:06 PM
It's probably a combo of the two zoloft causes sexual side-effects and so does strattera in some individuals. It did at first with me but then completely disappeared.
Talk to your doctor he may be able to try you on a different SSRI to see if the symptoms subside.
Talk to your doctor he may be able to try you on a different SSRI to see if the symptoms subside.
jay22
03-09-2003, 08:31 PM
Jacko,
I also have similar problem with strattera, except that I have no swelling but pain. Also I get frequent urge to urinate , constipation, flatulance & very disturbed sleep. I have now scaled down my dosage to 40mg/day from 80 mg/day but still the problem persists.
What dosage are you in right now. Other than strat Iam taking 100mg/day of wellbutrin.
thanks
I also have similar problem with strattera, except that I have no swelling but pain. Also I get frequent urge to urinate , constipation, flatulance & very disturbed sleep. I have now scaled down my dosage to 40mg/day from 80 mg/day but still the problem persists.
What dosage are you in right now. Other than strat Iam taking 100mg/day of wellbutrin.
thanks
Raq
03-26-2003, 11:21 PM
Jacko,
You're not alone. My fiancee has been on Strat. for almost a month. He has never taken any other ADHD meds before, and he has the same sensations you describe when ejaculating. Hopes it subsides.
You're not alone. My fiancee has been on Strat. for almost a month. He has never taken any other ADHD meds before, and he has the same sensations you describe when ejaculating. Hopes it subsides.
AaronV
04-07-2003, 08:47 PM
Jacko,
Today has been my 8th day on strattera. Today while urinating, the last few drops didnt't come out like usual, instead it was a rather copious amount of semen. I've also had semen leak unexpectedly a couple of times since taking the med. It's almost as if theres an abundance of fluid being produced. I am 40 years old and am only on strattera. I was also curious if this had happened to anyone else. Otherwise, I have been satisfied with the med. so far.
Today has been my 8th day on strattera. Today while urinating, the last few drops didnt't come out like usual, instead it was a rather copious amount of semen. I've also had semen leak unexpectedly a couple of times since taking the med. It's almost as if theres an abundance of fluid being produced. I am 40 years old and am only on strattera. I was also curious if this had happened to anyone else. Otherwise, I have been satisfied with the med. so far.
dotah_oh
04-09-2003, 04:47 PM
I'm told that zoloft and stratterra are specifically counterindicated. You should talk to your doc about changing your ssri to one that may not conflict with stratterra.
38y/o male
04-10-2003, 10:40 PM
Started Strattera yesterday and am having the same sensation post climax. Strong urge to urinate almost as if prostate is swollen. I too hope it subsides because the improvement in focus is already noticable. I am taking no other SSRI's or other meds other than a tapering dose of ritalin. Has anyone seen any literature on this side effect?
Hotdogg21502
04-16-2003, 04:09 PM
I'm a 25 year-old male, just started Strattera 40 mg yesterday. It definitely does something weird to the male sex organs. First of all sexual desire and ability to get aroused is significantly impared, similar to when I was on SSRI's. When I do get aroused, however, before climax I have a large "premature" leakage of semen that oozes out, then during climax I have an otherwise normal ejaculation but with slight pain in the entire pelvic area. Never experienced this before, even when I was on the SSRI's. Any other adult male on Strattera notice this?
hyperev
04-28-2003, 03:01 PM
I am a 37 year old male on 60 mg Strattera and 100 mg Wellbutrin per day. Initially, I had the same "sensation" during ejaculation. In addition to that, I had the following occur; I was running during lunch which is common for me. At around the 3-mile mark (in a 5 mile run), I suddenly felt the urge to urinate. Luckily, I was running along the beach and was able to go immediately. I got another 50 yards or so, and felt the urge again. I stopped, went again, but very little came out. Another 25 yards, felt the urge once again, but this time I couldn’t go at all. I felt a lot of pain, and couldn’t even walk. Again, as luck would have it, a friend was having lunch nearby, so I hobbled to towards their way and had them take me to the emergency room. Yes it was that painful. I felt like I was going to pee my pants, but when I would stand at the toilet, nothing came out. To make a long story short, the doctor at the ER knew what meds I was taking, but didn’t attribute this sensation to the Strattera. They ran a urinalysis and found nothing. They also performed an STD test (talk about pain, I had to hold back my reflexes from punching the guy). So they put me on some antibiotics and sent me on my way, in case it was a bladder infection their tests couldn’t detect.
stephens1
05-05-2003, 11:55 PM
I have been taking strattera (first 40, then 80) for about two weeks. I am continuing my ritalin doses along with the new med. I have not noticed the urinary retention. What I have noticed follows:
1. Ejeculation and orgasm are not in synch. There is a significant ejaculation without much force, followed at some point by orgasm with minimal volume of ejaculate. Sometimes there is some discomfort, but not enough to keep me from trying again. :)
2. Some headaches--fairly minor except one that was more likely due to dehydration and too much time in the south texas sun.
3. Severe nausea if I take it without eating at least part of breakfast first. I have never cared much for breakfast, but this is a habit I'm willing to change.
4. Possibly some depressive symptoms. This may make me quit the medicine and stick with ritalin. I don't like feeling that way.
I forgot my meds when I went out of town this weekend, and I felt really good. Today I resumed it, and felt a little bad again. I am on the verge of stopping, but I'll give strattera another two weeks, unless these symptoms get worse. For now I'm going to split the dose into 40mg in the morning and 40 in the afternoon.
Of course, I don't advise anybody to change the way they take any medicine without talking to their doctor first.
1. Ejeculation and orgasm are not in synch. There is a significant ejaculation without much force, followed at some point by orgasm with minimal volume of ejaculate. Sometimes there is some discomfort, but not enough to keep me from trying again. :)
2. Some headaches--fairly minor except one that was more likely due to dehydration and too much time in the south texas sun.
3. Severe nausea if I take it without eating at least part of breakfast first. I have never cared much for breakfast, but this is a habit I'm willing to change.
4. Possibly some depressive symptoms. This may make me quit the medicine and stick with ritalin. I don't like feeling that way.
I forgot my meds when I went out of town this weekend, and I felt really good. Today I resumed it, and felt a little bad again. I am on the verge of stopping, but I'll give strattera another two weeks, unless these symptoms get worse. For now I'm going to split the dose into 40mg in the morning and 40 in the afternoon.
Of course, I don't advise anybody to change the way they take any medicine without talking to their doctor first.
criterioncollection
05-06-2003, 05:47 AM
25 year old male, been on Strattera for 5 days and definitely experience the sexual side-effects described. Ejaculation and orgasm seem to be "out of sinc" as someone mentioned. End of ejaculation is painful and is accompanied by the sensation that semen that was meant to come out got "backed up" along the way. Followed by an intense desire to urinate. Was worried enough that I sought out this messageboard.
Has anyone had these side-effects subside after an extended period of regular use? Any indication of how common these side-effects are? Any other valuable sources of information others like myself might benefit from? Thanks guys.
Has anyone had these side-effects subside after an extended period of regular use? Any indication of how common these side-effects are? Any other valuable sources of information others like myself might benefit from? Thanks guys.
criterioncollection
05-06-2003, 05:50 AM
Also should note that I take Wellbutrin twice a day as well (the purple pill, not yellow).
criterioncollection
05-06-2003, 06:35 AM
One last thing, found this in a post a couple pages back and thought all should read it if they haven't yet
[This message has been edited by kool_Mod (edited 05-18-2003).]
[This message has been edited by kool_Mod (edited 05-18-2003).]
johnny2678
05-06-2003, 02:39 PM
26 year old male who has been on Straterra for 6 days now at 40 mg/day and is basically experiencing all the side effects listed in this topic:
- urge to urinate when there is nothing to piss out
- seminal fluid discharge for no reason following urination
- arrousal difficulty
- out of sync orgasms
I would like to hear from any of the original posters to this thread. Has you situation improved?
Otherwise, no complaints about the stuff and I would like to stay on but keeping a healthy sex life is pretty important too. I am also on 10mg/day of Lexapro.
- urge to urinate when there is nothing to piss out
- seminal fluid discharge for no reason following urination
- arrousal difficulty
- out of sync orgasms
I would like to hear from any of the original posters to this thread. Has you situation improved?
Otherwise, no complaints about the stuff and I would like to stay on but keeping a healthy sex life is pretty important too. I am also on 10mg/day of Lexapro.
AaronV
05-07-2003, 01:47 PM
In reply to johnny2678, it's now day 38 for me and all the items you listed still continue to be side effects with me. To elaborate a little further, I find that when I have the urge to urinate (immediately after urinating), that a seminal discharge is sure to follow. I find it helpful to "milk out" remaining seminal fluid from the urethra when this occurs.
I mentioned these side effects to my doctor and I also contacted the Lilly Answers Center and they both seemed unaware of this. It may help if those experiencing these side effects to call the above mentioned.
I mentioned these side effects to my doctor and I also contacted the Lilly Answers Center and they both seemed unaware of this. It may help if those experiencing these side effects to call the above mentioned.
AaronV
05-07-2003, 07:42 PM
Something else I'll mention is that there seems to be a peak period when the semen discharge thing seems more likely to happen. It is usually about 3-4 hours after I take my 60 mg dose at 7:00am. I haven't read anything yet indicating that this will go away with time. I had some headaches and sleeping difficulty early on but those went away.
I guess it's still early to know the long term effects with this new med. It's nice to have this message board to hear what other people have to share.
I guess it's still early to know the long term effects with this new med. It's nice to have this message board to hear what other people have to share.
johnny2678
05-08-2003, 01:33 PM
Thanks for replying Aaron. Yeah, the board is nice. It would be great to know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Other than the above mentioned side effects, the first few days were great but lately i've been more subdued and less outgoing. I did completely organize my room last night which was nice for a change but I hope that I don't always feel this way... or maybe this is what it is to not be ADD.
jay22
05-10-2003, 12:23 AM
I have stopped taking strattera (after using it for about 2 months) for prostate related pain as well as burning sensation.
I was the one who cross posted the quote about strattera that is posted again by criterioncollection.
My prostrate problems continues even after stopping strattera. My URO started me on "Flomax" which gave me throat infection as a side effect. My Primary physician gave antibiotic(Zithromax) for the infection which incidentally relieved my prostate problems temporarily. But I got it again after stopping zithromax. Now I still have it and as far as I researched the internet it looks like there is no conclusive treatment plan for prostatitis as such.
Iam thinking in terms of requesting powerful anti biotic as the next step.
I have been taking wellbutrin for a long time and recently started adderall xr after stopping strattera.
Adderall is helping my ADHD but not as effective as strattera was(I mean for ADHD)
My Advise would be to stop treatment and consult URO immediately if you find any Urinary problems
since Prostate infections are really really pain in the butt! (Litterally too)
My question for HYPERV is :
did the antibiotics help you ? How are u doing now?
thanks
I was the one who cross posted the quote about strattera that is posted again by criterioncollection.
My prostrate problems continues even after stopping strattera. My URO started me on "Flomax" which gave me throat infection as a side effect. My Primary physician gave antibiotic(Zithromax) for the infection which incidentally relieved my prostate problems temporarily. But I got it again after stopping zithromax. Now I still have it and as far as I researched the internet it looks like there is no conclusive treatment plan for prostatitis as such.
Iam thinking in terms of requesting powerful anti biotic as the next step.
I have been taking wellbutrin for a long time and recently started adderall xr after stopping strattera.
Adderall is helping my ADHD but not as effective as strattera was(I mean for ADHD)
My Advise would be to stop treatment and consult URO immediately if you find any Urinary problems
since Prostate infections are really really pain in the butt! (Litterally too)
My question for HYPERV is :
did the antibiotics help you ? How are u doing now?
thanks
AlmostOK
05-11-2003, 03:58 PM
WARNING: GRAPHIC LANGUAGE
I just found this thread from searching on Google. It's a relief to see that this is a med side effect and not a venereal disease!
I've been having sexual side effects like others describe here, after taking Strattera for about 3 weeks.
1. Copious leakage of pre-ejaculate fluid. (Normally there would be almost none.)
2. At orgasm, ejaculation volume is around 20% of normal. Sometimes nothing at all! There is also an uncomfortable burning sensation.
3. Afterwards, I feel a strong need to urinate, but cannot do so for several minutes.
Speculation:
It seems to me that something is happening to the "valve" that normally prevents a man from urinating while he has an erection. (I do not know the anatomical name for this, but I know that it exists.) I believe that Strattera interferes with this valve, so that it constricts (or perhaps redirects) the flow of semen during ejaculation and also interferes with the flow of urine at other times. Perhaps simple inflammation and swelling could have this effect. Other posters on this board have reported releasing semen at the end of urination. This, plus the sensations I have experienced, leads me to believe that during these "impaired" ejaculations, semen is actually being "re-routed" into the bladder. I never knew that was possible, but it seems to be happening.
I believe I will have to go back to taking Adderall instead of Strattera. The "speedy" side effects of the Adderall are a bit annoying, but nowhere near as weird and disturbing as this!
I just found this thread from searching on Google. It's a relief to see that this is a med side effect and not a venereal disease!
I've been having sexual side effects like others describe here, after taking Strattera for about 3 weeks.
1. Copious leakage of pre-ejaculate fluid. (Normally there would be almost none.)
2. At orgasm, ejaculation volume is around 20% of normal. Sometimes nothing at all! There is also an uncomfortable burning sensation.
3. Afterwards, I feel a strong need to urinate, but cannot do so for several minutes.
Speculation:
It seems to me that something is happening to the "valve" that normally prevents a man from urinating while he has an erection. (I do not know the anatomical name for this, but I know that it exists.) I believe that Strattera interferes with this valve, so that it constricts (or perhaps redirects) the flow of semen during ejaculation and also interferes with the flow of urine at other times. Perhaps simple inflammation and swelling could have this effect. Other posters on this board have reported releasing semen at the end of urination. This, plus the sensations I have experienced, leads me to believe that during these "impaired" ejaculations, semen is actually being "re-routed" into the bladder. I never knew that was possible, but it seems to be happening.
I believe I will have to go back to taking Adderall instead of Strattera. The "speedy" side effects of the Adderall are a bit annoying, but nowhere near as weird and disturbing as this!
AlmostOK
05-18-2003, 01:27 PM
Follow-up:
I stopped taking the Strattera a week ago, and the odd side effects are now gone.
I stopped taking the Strattera a week ago, and the odd side effects are now gone.
jeffsui
05-20-2003, 12:25 AM
I'm having the same side effects as described on this board. I've been on stratera for 3 days. I'm not sure I'm going to stay on it. Has anybody had these side effects go away after a while?
hyperev
05-21-2003, 05:06 PM
Replying to Jay22, the antibiotics worked for the strange urinary problem. Since my posting, I have dropped the Strattera all together. I have NEVER had any impodence problems in my life until this crappy med. Not to be graphic, but I was with a woman, and had to constantly be manipulated to keep an erection. Friggin' ADD is better than that in my mind. The catch 22 is while on the med, I was a better listener and had better luck with the ladies. The thing is now, as with most "mind altering" drugs, once you have been on them, you never look at things the same. I now see when I'm doing my ADD cr@p. I still get pissed at myself when I make an ADD related mistake, but I am much more aware of them....
jay22
05-22-2003, 01:43 PM
Thanks hyperv for the response. Also can you tell me which antibiotic was prescribed. I took zithromax .
I still continue to have the burning sensation when I urinate (even after two months after stipping strattera) and looks like I see some tiny white spots which could be semen. I never had any urinary problem prior to taking Strattera.
Iam planning on meeting URO for a powerful antibiotic.
What is puzzling to me is Prostatitis which is an infection is the side effect of a medicine(it is mentioned as one of the possible side effects of strattera). Also flomax has listed Throat infection as one of its side effects which I got by taking the medicine (For Prostatitis). How could a medicine cause infection? Does it mean they have the bacteria in them or they kick start those bacteria. Very strange chemical effects!
As an aside Adderall xr with Wellbutrin looks like a promising combo. The effects are getting better day by day
thanks
Jay22
I still continue to have the burning sensation when I urinate (even after two months after stipping strattera) and looks like I see some tiny white spots which could be semen. I never had any urinary problem prior to taking Strattera.
Iam planning on meeting URO for a powerful antibiotic.
What is puzzling to me is Prostatitis which is an infection is the side effect of a medicine(it is mentioned as one of the possible side effects of strattera). Also flomax has listed Throat infection as one of its side effects which I got by taking the medicine (For Prostatitis). How could a medicine cause infection? Does it mean they have the bacteria in them or they kick start those bacteria. Very strange chemical effects!
As an aside Adderall xr with Wellbutrin looks like a promising combo. The effects are getting better day by day
thanks
Jay22
IThinkICan
05-24-2003, 06:27 AM
I started strattera Doc has bumped me up from 40 to 80mg a couple days ago. still havent seen much improvement. how long does this stuff take to kick in and make me be able to concentrate? I can feel the side effects like tiredness still. I also have problems ejaculating...and urinating sometimes...then again it might be the 20mg of lexapro which i started recently also.
giupset
05-29-2003, 02:03 AM
It could be affecting your ureter(s), urethra, and/or prostate. I've only read about 10-15 of the emails. You can contact Eli Lilly in Indianapolis, IN at 317-276-2000 and ask for Medical Information/Medical Informatics. Not much would really be known on this as it's pretty new. Not many people have taken this drug. You can also report this to the FDA in Rockville, Maryland regarding a MedWatch report or something similar to it. Or possibly contact Judy Putz in the investigational branch of the FDA located in Detroit, MI (not sure she could help, you may have to go straight to headquarters).
Have any of you guys seen a urologist to see if this has affected the above in anyway?
Have any of you guys seen a urologist to see if this has affected the above in anyway?
addrx?
05-29-2003, 02:31 PM
Hi Jacko, Sounds like it is time to consult a PDR and or your Physician. Does not sound good. You do not need the added anxiety.
Joe
Joe
addrx?
05-29-2003, 02:56 PM
The symptoms of burning, out of sync ejaculation, pain in the pelvis etc. secondary to Strattera therapy may be dur to direct irratation of the gentiourinary system, neurogenic or muscle control or any or all of the above.
I have to believe that the Mfg of Strattera is aware of these symptoms. Do the patient no harm.
Make sure your doctor is AWARE of your problems.
joe
[This message has been edited by addrx? (edited 06-12-2003).]
[This message has been edited by addrx? (edited 06-12-2003).]
I have to believe that the Mfg of Strattera is aware of these symptoms. Do the patient no harm.
Make sure your doctor is AWARE of your problems.
joe
[This message has been edited by addrx? (edited 06-12-2003).]
[This message has been edited by addrx? (edited 06-12-2003).]
giupset
05-30-2003, 01:42 AM
The manufacturer, Eli Lilly is aware that this adverse event has occurred in their clinical trials - you can review the PDR or the monograph/insert. They have less than 10 patients noted having these symptoms. I don't remember their patient population so can't give you a percentage but I believe it's under 10% which is incorrect. The FDA should be contacted regarding this before it gets so serious and causes other problems but not many physicians contact the FDA regarding issues on drugs that are already on the market. Again, you can contact Lilly and/or the FDA as well as your MD.
genX
05-30-2003, 09:05 PM
Hi,
I'm a newbie here. I'm taking Wellbutrin SR once a day in the afternoon and Straterra in the morning. I'm on my 16th day and I have pain in my stomach, one day instead of urine, a whole glob of semen comes out. I'm 35 and I have a hard time to get an erection. I never had the problem with any of the above until I start taking Strats. I'm paging my doctor to tell him that I will have to get back to Wellbutrin 2X a day and stop taking Strats. I'm nauseated all day and I'm only taking the 25 mg. I took the 40 mg one day, because my doctor told me to try the different dosages to see what's going to help me, but when I took the 40, Extreme pain in my testicles, like I just got kicked in the groin area. Very sore feeling too. Extreme pressure in my bladder. I am getting out of this med, it worries me. 16 days is enough.
------------------
"redeeming the time..."
I'm a newbie here. I'm taking Wellbutrin SR once a day in the afternoon and Straterra in the morning. I'm on my 16th day and I have pain in my stomach, one day instead of urine, a whole glob of semen comes out. I'm 35 and I have a hard time to get an erection. I never had the problem with any of the above until I start taking Strats. I'm paging my doctor to tell him that I will have to get back to Wellbutrin 2X a day and stop taking Strats. I'm nauseated all day and I'm only taking the 25 mg. I took the 40 mg one day, because my doctor told me to try the different dosages to see what's going to help me, but when I took the 40, Extreme pain in my testicles, like I just got kicked in the groin area. Very sore feeling too. Extreme pressure in my bladder. I am getting out of this med, it worries me. 16 days is enough.
------------------
"redeeming the time..."
mitchel7379
05-31-2003, 02:29 AM
I was taking Strattera for almost 2 weeks. One day at work my balls starting hurting like they were full, and everytime I went to pee it felt like I never got it all out. Then the next day I went to pee and I strained to try and get it all out and a big ole glob of semen came out. Then on top of that, I was masturbating and my ejaculation came at least a minute before my orgasm and there was this white stuff in there that did not look like semen at all.. I freaked out until I read on this website that everyone else was having the same problem. Then, I immediately stopped the meds and within a day all the symptoms stopped and everything was back to normal. I had sex with my partner last night, and we tore the paint off the walls......All is good off of Strattera!
Mitchel
Mitchel
Zman_nm
06-01-2003, 12:40 AM
Recent med history
44 yr old male: Still on Wellbutrin -300mg/day for over a year and Straterra 50 mg/day for approx 30 days, prior to this on Concerta/Ritalin in lieu of Straterra. Yesterday started 60 mg Straterra, doctor taking it slow to 80 mg (normal dose) due to urological symptoms (experienced before with Effexor before being on Wellbutrin)
After first several days on Straterra
- I started noticing urination and ejaculation effects.
- Also EXTREMELY dry mouth.
- Could not sleep well at night, as on a caffeine kick that keeps you tossing and turning
-Fairly good headache and stomach upset
-Experienced some touch sensitivity as if somewhat surreal
CONTINUED SYMPTOMS
** Good things**
Mental effects:
-Do not seem so artificially up, compared to Concerta/Ritalin, but doze off a bit more than before. Feel a bit more like me.
-Have found more periods of digging in on a project to completion as compared to Concerta/Ritalin.
**Not so good things**
Urination effects
-After urination, when ready to button up, another small wave hits to get out the last few dribbles.
During urination, lots of stops and starts, weak in stream.
-Usually a bit of pain right after
-Urination usually doesn't start right away like it did before Straterra, especially if I've not had many fluids prior.
Sexual effects
-Ejaculation is not as forceful, almost like it occurs first then the ejaculate comes out, sometimes the other way around.
-Painful right after ejaculation
-Almost anti-climax sensation at ejaculation,
-Lots of pre-come fluid almost as soon as erection occurs.
-Erection in penis not as rigid as before, if stimulation stops, returns to flaccid much faster.
-More of a premature ejaculation experience than before, but most of this I attribute to the Wellbutrin, which has been my experience.
It sure seems like there are folks who have been having a fair share of these problems. It would be great to know if there are any other statistics that have come forward as to what percentage of patients we fit into. I'm fairly confident that those who have little or no problems are probably not reporting like those who've had problems.
I will be visiting a urologist at the recommendation by my psychiatrist to discuss these symptoms, which seem typical of BPH (Enlarged Prostate) of which I tend to believe Straterra has created.
Can anyone point me to results on test subjects?
------------------
44 yr old male: Still on Wellbutrin -300mg/day for over a year and Straterra 50 mg/day for approx 30 days, prior to this on Concerta/Ritalin in lieu of Straterra. Yesterday started 60 mg Straterra, doctor taking it slow to 80 mg (normal dose) due to urological symptoms (experienced before with Effexor before being on Wellbutrin)
After first several days on Straterra
- I started noticing urination and ejaculation effects.
- Also EXTREMELY dry mouth.
- Could not sleep well at night, as on a caffeine kick that keeps you tossing and turning
-Fairly good headache and stomach upset
-Experienced some touch sensitivity as if somewhat surreal
CONTINUED SYMPTOMS
** Good things**
Mental effects:
-Do not seem so artificially up, compared to Concerta/Ritalin, but doze off a bit more than before. Feel a bit more like me.
-Have found more periods of digging in on a project to completion as compared to Concerta/Ritalin.
**Not so good things**
Urination effects
-After urination, when ready to button up, another small wave hits to get out the last few dribbles.
During urination, lots of stops and starts, weak in stream.
-Usually a bit of pain right after
-Urination usually doesn't start right away like it did before Straterra, especially if I've not had many fluids prior.
Sexual effects
-Ejaculation is not as forceful, almost like it occurs first then the ejaculate comes out, sometimes the other way around.
-Painful right after ejaculation
-Almost anti-climax sensation at ejaculation,
-Lots of pre-come fluid almost as soon as erection occurs.
-Erection in penis not as rigid as before, if stimulation stops, returns to flaccid much faster.
-More of a premature ejaculation experience than before, but most of this I attribute to the Wellbutrin, which has been my experience.
It sure seems like there are folks who have been having a fair share of these problems. It would be great to know if there are any other statistics that have come forward as to what percentage of patients we fit into. I'm fairly confident that those who have little or no problems are probably not reporting like those who've had problems.
I will be visiting a urologist at the recommendation by my psychiatrist to discuss these symptoms, which seem typical of BPH (Enlarged Prostate) of which I tend to believe Straterra has created.
Can anyone point me to results on test subjects?
------------------
BerberCarpet
06-02-2003, 08:51 PM
Originally posted by AaronV:
Something else I'll mention is that there seems to be a peak period when the semen discharge thing seems more likely to happen. It is usually about 3-4 hours after I take my 60 mg dose at 7:00am.
I'll second that.
I'm almost to 4 weeks on it now, and am seeing the same time frame: about 10 to 11 am, and I take the pill about 7:45 am.
Something else I'll mention is that there seems to be a peak period when the semen discharge thing seems more likely to happen. It is usually about 3-4 hours after I take my 60 mg dose at 7:00am.
I'll second that.
I'm almost to 4 weeks on it now, and am seeing the same time frame: about 10 to 11 am, and I take the pill about 7:45 am.
BerberCarpet
06-02-2003, 08:57 PM
Originally posted by hyperev:
...but I was with a woman, and had to constantly be manipulated to keep an erection.
Oddly, I have experienced the exact opposite: My need for sex has gone up greatly.
My wife's really happy about it.
We've gone from 1-2 a month to almost daily.
My orgasms have been better/longer lasting, and they've been "bigger" from a sheer volume of semen, as well.
I have found that if I get horny (like in foreplay), and then don't orgasm within 10 - 15 minutes though, that I will get "blue balls" very badly, along with constipation and nasuea.
...but I was with a woman, and had to constantly be manipulated to keep an erection.
Oddly, I have experienced the exact opposite: My need for sex has gone up greatly.
My wife's really happy about it.
We've gone from 1-2 a month to almost daily.
My orgasms have been better/longer lasting, and they've been "bigger" from a sheer volume of semen, as well.
I have found that if I get horny (like in foreplay), and then don't orgasm within 10 - 15 minutes though, that I will get "blue balls" very badly, along with constipation and nasuea.
Urbandale39
06-05-2003, 01:06 PM
test
Urbandale39
06-05-2003, 01:15 PM
I'm 38, and on 20 mg of Prozac and 80 mg of Strat, daily. I have the same symptoms, but have no girlfriend so it really doesn't bother me that much. Okay, slightly when I'm wanking, but at least I still get the head rush from ejac. so I can live with it. I have had some slight urges to pee, but I also have chronic prostatis, which causes same side effects, and even if I'm not on the SSRI's I still have to take Viagra to get it up fully. Of course I can't prove to my insurance company that my Impotence is due to the prostate, so I get to pay myself. So I have to fight the urge to shoot some insurance exec. in the head.but that's another story. Overall I think the Strat. is working, but I don't know if it is starting to wear off. I also lost about 8 lbs, on Sratt, which I love. Another incentive to at least keep taking it for a while.
Urbandale39
06-05-2003, 01:18 PM
More ejac. info. I once took a prostate drug that works to enlarge the prostate. It had the same affect, but it makes Strattera feel like baby ****. I mean You did not come AAAAAATT ALLLLL. You felt like you came, but all the liquid stayed inside. Doc. said this is normal, I said to hell with that ****, I'll deal with the discomfort.
A_Bug
06-07-2003, 05:45 AM
Has anyone had these same symptoms with Adderall. I've had the symptoms you are all talking about but i've only been taking adderall not Strattera.
Could this just be a prostate thing and not an Adderall/Strattera thing?
Any help/thoughts is much appreciated.
A_Bug
Could this just be a prostate thing and not an Adderall/Strattera thing?
Any help/thoughts is much appreciated.
A_Bug
help
06-07-2003, 07:40 AM
Amphetamines can shut you down sexually as well, so yes adderall can cause sexual side effects.
A_Bug
06-07-2003, 03:52 PM
I certainly understand that amphetamines cause sexual side effects. But aside from either an increase or decrease of drive I can't find out what other side effects might exist.
Reading this info on how Strattera is affecting people is the first I’ve been able to find regarding the symptoms I’m having (and not taking Strattera).
Besides, isn't Strattera not an amphetamine (I really only just learned about it the other day so I know I’m kinda talking out of my ass)?
My point is: I've only seen these symptoms with regard to Strattera, not Adderall. However I’m having them and I’m on Adderall. The two may not be related, and that's what I want to find out?
Sorry if I’m talking in circles my Adderall should kick-in just after I’ve written this note :P.
Thanks,
A (un-informed) Bug
Reading this info on how Strattera is affecting people is the first I’ve been able to find regarding the symptoms I’m having (and not taking Strattera).
Besides, isn't Strattera not an amphetamine (I really only just learned about it the other day so I know I’m kinda talking out of my ass)?
My point is: I've only seen these symptoms with regard to Strattera, not Adderall. However I’m having them and I’m on Adderall. The two may not be related, and that's what I want to find out?
Sorry if I’m talking in circles my Adderall should kick-in just after I’ve written this note :P.
Thanks,
A (un-informed) Bug
help
06-08-2003, 02:42 AM
Is Adderall the only med you are taking ? The sexual side effects from Strattera are very common in any reuptake inhibitor medication. All SSRIs and Effexor have the potential of sexual side effects.
A_Bug
06-09-2003, 01:09 AM
Adderall is the only Medication i've been taking for the amount of time i've had the symptoms.
Breif run down on me:
32 Male
Meds taking on a regular/semi-regular basis
Adderall (30mg 4xday)
Lexipro (10mg 1xday)
Allegra (when allergy season kicks up - currently)
Nasonex (when allergy Season kicks up - currently)
However, while i don't want to discount the possiblity of it being either another drug or a drug interaction, I only started having the symptoms while on the adderall, and the few times i've been off (between Rx refills b/c its hard to get that quanity near by) i think i've noticed a reduction of the symptoms.
I guess it should be said that at my last physical my doctor did say my prostate was 'slightly' enlarged. Not significant enough to do anything or see anyone, but just to 'keep an eye' on.
Thoughts?
Thanks again for all your help.
A (lazy) Bug (who should just go to a proctologist and get it out in the open and out of the way) :P.
Breif run down on me:
32 Male
Meds taking on a regular/semi-regular basis
Adderall (30mg 4xday)
Lexipro (10mg 1xday)
Allegra (when allergy season kicks up - currently)
Nasonex (when allergy Season kicks up - currently)
However, while i don't want to discount the possiblity of it being either another drug or a drug interaction, I only started having the symptoms while on the adderall, and the few times i've been off (between Rx refills b/c its hard to get that quanity near by) i think i've noticed a reduction of the symptoms.
I guess it should be said that at my last physical my doctor did say my prostate was 'slightly' enlarged. Not significant enough to do anything or see anyone, but just to 'keep an eye' on.
Thoughts?
Thanks again for all your help.
A (lazy) Bug (who should just go to a proctologist and get it out in the open and out of the way) :P.
TonyO
06-15-2003, 08:09 PM
Thank goodness that I searched on Google for "Strattera side effects" and found this message board.
I had honestly thought that there was something seriously wrong with me, now I know that I have to reevaluate my usage of Strattera and if it is worth it to me.
I, too, have ejaculation/orgasm and urination problems.
I have been taking Strattera 80mg for one month, after taking Cylert/pemoline for a few years. (I also take Synthroid 225mg for hypothyroidism.)
As I've told my wife, since I began taking Strattera, I am ejaculating, but having no orgasm whatsoever. I can't describe it. I mean, I can feel when I am about to ejaculate, and I expect an orgasm, but it is simply the act of ejaculation. There is no pleasure at all, in fact, it is very frustrating, because while there is ejaculation, there is not that "good" feeling of an orgasm.
Also, I have never had any problems with premature ejaculation, in fact, the opposite. I have often maintained an orgasm for more than half an hour to an hour. (This might seem like a good thing, but sometimes I cannot achieve orgasm before my wife gets too sore to continue...it has been a problem many times.)
However, now my ejaculation happens within minutes of beginning intercourse. Sometimes it is a matter of only a few seconds.
After reading the messages on this board, I am going to experiment and see if an orgasm might in fact follow the ejaculation.
Also, I have had a side effect of urination that started after I began taking Strattera, although it seems to be easing up a bit after one month. I feel like I am "leaking," even after "milking it," as one mesage writer explained it. After zipping up, I may start walking down the hall and feel wetness from my penis. I just assumed that it was excess urine, and have never checked to see if it was in fact semen or some such substance. I will now check.
I read the entire Strattera web site before taking Strattera, as well as information from my doctor and the info that came with the pills. NOWHERE does it mention these side effects, and I can't believe that they did not know about them. They should have told us up front about these side effects, instead of having us search out other people who are having bad experiences. That is a bad way to do business, in my mind.
THANKS FOR THIS MESSAGE BOARD AND LETTING ME KNOW THAT I AM NOT ALONE OR CRAZY!
[This message has been edited by TonyO (edited 06-15-2003).]
I had honestly thought that there was something seriously wrong with me, now I know that I have to reevaluate my usage of Strattera and if it is worth it to me.
I, too, have ejaculation/orgasm and urination problems.
I have been taking Strattera 80mg for one month, after taking Cylert/pemoline for a few years. (I also take Synthroid 225mg for hypothyroidism.)
As I've told my wife, since I began taking Strattera, I am ejaculating, but having no orgasm whatsoever. I can't describe it. I mean, I can feel when I am about to ejaculate, and I expect an orgasm, but it is simply the act of ejaculation. There is no pleasure at all, in fact, it is very frustrating, because while there is ejaculation, there is not that "good" feeling of an orgasm.
Also, I have never had any problems with premature ejaculation, in fact, the opposite. I have often maintained an orgasm for more than half an hour to an hour. (This might seem like a good thing, but sometimes I cannot achieve orgasm before my wife gets too sore to continue...it has been a problem many times.)
However, now my ejaculation happens within minutes of beginning intercourse. Sometimes it is a matter of only a few seconds.
After reading the messages on this board, I am going to experiment and see if an orgasm might in fact follow the ejaculation.
Also, I have had a side effect of urination that started after I began taking Strattera, although it seems to be easing up a bit after one month. I feel like I am "leaking," even after "milking it," as one mesage writer explained it. After zipping up, I may start walking down the hall and feel wetness from my penis. I just assumed that it was excess urine, and have never checked to see if it was in fact semen or some such substance. I will now check.
I read the entire Strattera web site before taking Strattera, as well as information from my doctor and the info that came with the pills. NOWHERE does it mention these side effects, and I can't believe that they did not know about them. They should have told us up front about these side effects, instead of having us search out other people who are having bad experiences. That is a bad way to do business, in my mind.
THANKS FOR THIS MESSAGE BOARD AND LETTING ME KNOW THAT I AM NOT ALONE OR CRAZY!
[This message has been edited by TonyO (edited 06-15-2003).]
sstjohn
06-18-2003, 10:31 PM
Hi everyone, I'm a 32 year old man who would like to share my Strattera Success story. I'm taking Strattera to treat my ADD and it has also helped with social anxiety.
I recently switched from paxil to strattera and I am proud to report that I have had few side effects on Strattera worth mentioning. While weening off the paxil, I did have the typical paxil withdrawl symptoms,yes, those darn brain shocks, we all hate those. The sexual side effects, headaches, and other problems that paxil had, are all gone now.
I've taken 80mg of Strattera now for a little over 2 months. Only side effects that have come and gone are dry mouth, light headache, feeling a bit colder, and the occasional extra effort to get aroused for sex. Sure the orgasm and ejaculation type have changed somewhat, but I've not experienced the burning, itching, painful feelings or urge to urinate since I got well away from paxil.
My suggestion to anyone who is mixing strattera with an ssri like paxil, is to try strattera on its own for a month and see what side effects remaain in your life, and go from there.
I went to the doc today and she was pleased with my progress, I asked if I could even increase to the suggested 100mg high end dose, and she agreed that it wouldn't be a problem due to my progress. She suggested that I take the entire dose at dinnertime rather than in the mornings, as not to upset my stomach.
You would never see me ask to increase paxil when I was on it. The 60mg I worked up to was causing worse problems than it cured with all its famous side effects.
Oh, I nearly forgot, if you know what brain shocks is a reference to, don't forget to take your strattera for a long period of time. I've done that, and it seems that strattera isn't as forgiving as paxil when it comes to missing a dose, after about 36 hours without strattera, them brain shocks, not exactly like paxils shocks, start coming in waves, but quickly subside after you take your missed dose.
Strattera works for me. I do hope it works for more ADDers out there. I am much more focused, less iritable, more worry free and life seems more enjoyable now. I also feel I enjoy the company of others more. I feel and believe that I am better in control of where I am in life, and where I'd like to be. Seems I've lived the past decade or more just floating from one place to another, and now I've managed to find a ship, and am setting my own course, and it feels like a good course for a change.
I recently switched from paxil to strattera and I am proud to report that I have had few side effects on Strattera worth mentioning. While weening off the paxil, I did have the typical paxil withdrawl symptoms,yes, those darn brain shocks, we all hate those. The sexual side effects, headaches, and other problems that paxil had, are all gone now.
I've taken 80mg of Strattera now for a little over 2 months. Only side effects that have come and gone are dry mouth, light headache, feeling a bit colder, and the occasional extra effort to get aroused for sex. Sure the orgasm and ejaculation type have changed somewhat, but I've not experienced the burning, itching, painful feelings or urge to urinate since I got well away from paxil.
My suggestion to anyone who is mixing strattera with an ssri like paxil, is to try strattera on its own for a month and see what side effects remaain in your life, and go from there.
I went to the doc today and she was pleased with my progress, I asked if I could even increase to the suggested 100mg high end dose, and she agreed that it wouldn't be a problem due to my progress. She suggested that I take the entire dose at dinnertime rather than in the mornings, as not to upset my stomach.
You would never see me ask to increase paxil when I was on it. The 60mg I worked up to was causing worse problems than it cured with all its famous side effects.
Oh, I nearly forgot, if you know what brain shocks is a reference to, don't forget to take your strattera for a long period of time. I've done that, and it seems that strattera isn't as forgiving as paxil when it comes to missing a dose, after about 36 hours without strattera, them brain shocks, not exactly like paxils shocks, start coming in waves, but quickly subside after you take your missed dose.
Strattera works for me. I do hope it works for more ADDers out there. I am much more focused, less iritable, more worry free and life seems more enjoyable now. I also feel I enjoy the company of others more. I feel and believe that I am better in control of where I am in life, and where I'd like to be. Seems I've lived the past decade or more just floating from one place to another, and now I've managed to find a ship, and am setting my own course, and it feels like a good course for a change.
jkil22
06-19-2003, 12:03 PM
Good to hear John that's it's working for someone. That said, it worries me what long term effects is it going to have on the male reproductive system. Are those who are in there 20's (or younger) going to be left sterile or worse? Strattera is clearly doing something down there, and no can say what, not even the Doctors, scary.
Whirlingblades
06-19-2003, 05:03 PM
Wow - I too am amazed that Lilly didn't have any info like this. I am 38yo, taking 80mg Strattera. Was taking Concerta 54 but the benefits diminished (addictive family) Hardest time was first 2 weeks but was coming off of Concerta. All of the side effects to 11.
Most of these have gone away but still a little nausea in the AM if I skip breakfast. Dry Mouth bothers me quite regularly throughout the day (triggered by "stress") and then there is the sexual side effects. I'm arroused at the slightest thought of making love but, sometimes, without any orgasm in sight, I just collapse from exhaustion.
My favorite - the "orgasmic sweats". This is profuse sweating that has replacee ejaculation. While building to climax, everything working great, a split second before the usual time for ejaculation, sweat just pours from every pore on my body. The shock of so much water suddenly appearing makes for huge laughter from the confussion. Half of the time, when that happens, I have a cerebral orgasm. Half of the time, NOTHING! Overall, the orgasmic sweats happen about 25% of the time.
And yes, the feeling that my bladder is going to burst occurs imediatly after ejaculation.
Overall, I like the stability that Strattera offers over Concerta but am now weighing the discomforts of the dry mouth and fatigue over the benefits.
Phil
Most of these have gone away but still a little nausea in the AM if I skip breakfast. Dry Mouth bothers me quite regularly throughout the day (triggered by "stress") and then there is the sexual side effects. I'm arroused at the slightest thought of making love but, sometimes, without any orgasm in sight, I just collapse from exhaustion.
My favorite - the "orgasmic sweats". This is profuse sweating that has replacee ejaculation. While building to climax, everything working great, a split second before the usual time for ejaculation, sweat just pours from every pore on my body. The shock of so much water suddenly appearing makes for huge laughter from the confussion. Half of the time, when that happens, I have a cerebral orgasm. Half of the time, NOTHING! Overall, the orgasmic sweats happen about 25% of the time.
And yes, the feeling that my bladder is going to burst occurs imediatly after ejaculation.
Overall, I like the stability that Strattera offers over Concerta but am now weighing the discomforts of the dry mouth and fatigue over the benefits.
Phil
SlickWillie31
07-06-2003, 11:38 PM
I am a 34-year-old male who has never been on any medication for ADHD, until Strattera, which I have been taking for about three months. I started out with 40mg / day for three days, then went to 60mg / day. While taking the 60mg / day I experienced most of the side effects that have been mentioned by others who have replied to this message, with the exception of the 'disconnected ejaculation and orgasm'. I am still ejaculating during orgasm, but it just does not feel as good. I do have a hard time (no pun intended) achieving and maintaining as erection. I can do it with Viagra and some times without, but the times without are becoming fewer and fewer.
I have noticed some improvement in the semen in urine problem after going to 80mg/day a few weeks ago. This involves taking two 40mg capsules a day, so I take one with breakfast and one with the evening meal. I am not sure if that was what caused the improvement or not I still have some semen in my urine, but not as much and it does not come out in a glob, the way it did before. I also started drinking quite a bit more water and much less Coke and Pepsi. I am still going to go to a urologist to be check out, just in case there is something really wrong.
As far as my ADHD is concerned, Strattera does help quite a bit. I am able to concentrate and get things accomplished.
I have noticed some improvement in the semen in urine problem after going to 80mg/day a few weeks ago. This involves taking two 40mg capsules a day, so I take one with breakfast and one with the evening meal. I am not sure if that was what caused the improvement or not I still have some semen in my urine, but not as much and it does not come out in a glob, the way it did before. I also started drinking quite a bit more water and much less Coke and Pepsi. I am still going to go to a urologist to be check out, just in case there is something really wrong.
As far as my ADHD is concerned, Strattera does help quite a bit. I am able to concentrate and get things accomplished.
jboon
07-07-2003, 10:16 PM
I spoke to a pharmacist about my concerns with my 11 year old son being on strattera after reading all of the posts on this thread. She showed me the insert that came with the strattera and it did mention urinary and sexual side effects in adult men, so I guess others did experience those problems during the trials. Not sure what my decision will be come September--I'm leaning toward putting my son back on Concerta. We still haven't tried Adderal so that's still an option too.
Tyler's Mom
07-07-2003, 10:57 PM
My son is almost 13 y/o and has been taking Strattera since Feb. It's really difficult to get a adolescent boy to talk about these things and I've really appreciated everyone's frankness about side effects of Strattera. I'm worried that he may be having some of these side effects but is not old enough and definately not sexually experienced enough to know how things are "supposed to work". I have some questions I hope you guys will be able to answer for me.
1) If you are you still on the Strattera, have the sexual side effects changed over time?
2) How have they changed?
3) Any insight into how I should approach my son to find out what sexual type side effects he may be having. Is he mature enough to be ejacutating?
4) I would appreciate any other information you could give me. I want to let my son know what is normal and what is abnormal.
5) If you stopped the Strattera, how long before the sexual side effects ceased.
Someone mentioned "brain shocks" or something like that if you missed a dose of Strattera. I would like to know more about this. Please describe how it feels and affects you.
Thanks from a mom who needs all the help I can get.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
1) If you are you still on the Strattera, have the sexual side effects changed over time?
2) How have they changed?
3) Any insight into how I should approach my son to find out what sexual type side effects he may be having. Is he mature enough to be ejacutating?
4) I would appreciate any other information you could give me. I want to let my son know what is normal and what is abnormal.
5) If you stopped the Strattera, how long before the sexual side effects ceased.
Someone mentioned "brain shocks" or something like that if you missed a dose of Strattera. I would like to know more about this. Please describe how it feels and affects you.
Thanks from a mom who needs all the help I can get.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
ShepherdWolf
07-21-2003, 03:04 AM
Ohhhh, thank you thank you THANK you Lord. I thought I was a bit young for Little Shep to stop working.
21-year-old male. Two weeks I started Strattera 18 mg 4 days titrating up to 25 mg 10 days, and now I'm currently experiencing, surprise, a noticable dislocation of ejaculation and orgasm. I started two weeks ago, but noticed a few days ago that I was actually shooting before I was feeling anything. My orgasms have sucked, too, frankly.
On a side note, this drymouth is annoying, but pales in comparison to sexual issues. I'm 21, not 81. Also, for some insane reason, I can't get my pits to stay dry, which is also something I noticed on all my other ADD meds. How bizarre.
I was on Concerta 32 mg before this and Ritalin 15 mg 4X daily for about 12 years, and both worked great, but I was a zombie. The Ritalin was awful; it was like slamming on the brakes when it kicked in, and stomping on the gas when it wore off. You could set a watch my me. The concerta didn't have side effects nearly so noticable, but it was only effective for eight hours...and to a college student, that doesn't do much good. It worked great for about...one class per day.
Oh well. I was hoping for 24/7 relief, but if this is the cost, count me OUT! I didn't need to balance my checkbook, anyway...
a very relieved SW
[This message has been edited by ShepherdWolf (edited 07-21-2003).]
21-year-old male. Two weeks I started Strattera 18 mg 4 days titrating up to 25 mg 10 days, and now I'm currently experiencing, surprise, a noticable dislocation of ejaculation and orgasm. I started two weeks ago, but noticed a few days ago that I was actually shooting before I was feeling anything. My orgasms have sucked, too, frankly.
On a side note, this drymouth is annoying, but pales in comparison to sexual issues. I'm 21, not 81. Also, for some insane reason, I can't get my pits to stay dry, which is also something I noticed on all my other ADD meds. How bizarre.
I was on Concerta 32 mg before this and Ritalin 15 mg 4X daily for about 12 years, and both worked great, but I was a zombie. The Ritalin was awful; it was like slamming on the brakes when it kicked in, and stomping on the gas when it wore off. You could set a watch my me. The concerta didn't have side effects nearly so noticable, but it was only effective for eight hours...and to a college student, that doesn't do much good. It worked great for about...one class per day.
Oh well. I was hoping for 24/7 relief, but if this is the cost, count me OUT! I didn't need to balance my checkbook, anyway...
a very relieved SW
[This message has been edited by ShepherdWolf (edited 07-21-2003).]
aflack
07-24-2003, 01:24 AM
I too have seen side affects from adderall xr. My urethra feels like its always about to leak urine. I also have a tingling affect all the way down my urethra thats very sensitive to touch. Anyone else having this with adderall xr?
collegestudent
07-27-2003, 11:48 PM
Hey everyone,
I've been taking Strattera for four days now and I also have urinary problems and sexual side effects. I didn't think that was that bad though, I figured it might go away. But today more stuff happened. My puples got dialated and I started to feel really weird. Are there any doctors here I have the opinion that any time that your puples get dialated from a drug that is a bad situation, all the drugs that do that slow down your perception. I had to take codine for a really bad toothache and it made me feel really slow, I've felt sort of the same way with Strattera, not nearly as out of it as with the codine though. I also did lots of research before I asked my nourologist for a prescription and I didn't come across anything that looked too bad. I was supprized when the the sexual side effects took place because lots of anti-depressent drugs say that can be a side effect but that never actually happend to me. I was taking Adderal and Wellbrutrin then I switched it to Adderal and Strattera and all these side effects started. A_bug and afleck I didn't notice the things that your talking about with Adderal (or Ritalin) I found the exact opposite they are actually pretty strong aphrodisiacs, probably because they stimulate the pleasure centers of your brain. But different things happen to different people. Today after the new side effects started I came online to try and learn more about it, I'm glad I found this site. Also when I was doing research and I saw in there in the Eli Lilly Strattera report that 8.5% of the people taking the medication stopped taking it because of adverse side effects, that's allot of people, especially since they were getting the medication for free (for someone without healthcare coverage that might be the only way they could get any ADD medison) and they were getting paid to take it as part of the clinical study. Ya I'm going to stop taking it and switch back to the Wellbrutrin, they both do the same thing anyway and the Wellbrutrin doesn't have any side effects for me. Both Strattera and Wellbrutrin are Dopamine re-uptake inhibitors. Another thing is the long term health effects, if all of the things that are happening are just the short term side effects what about the long term side effects, I don't want to be one of the guinea pigs to find out what the long term side effects might be.
I've been taking Strattera for four days now and I also have urinary problems and sexual side effects. I didn't think that was that bad though, I figured it might go away. But today more stuff happened. My puples got dialated and I started to feel really weird. Are there any doctors here I have the opinion that any time that your puples get dialated from a drug that is a bad situation, all the drugs that do that slow down your perception. I had to take codine for a really bad toothache and it made me feel really slow, I've felt sort of the same way with Strattera, not nearly as out of it as with the codine though. I also did lots of research before I asked my nourologist for a prescription and I didn't come across anything that looked too bad. I was supprized when the the sexual side effects took place because lots of anti-depressent drugs say that can be a side effect but that never actually happend to me. I was taking Adderal and Wellbrutrin then I switched it to Adderal and Strattera and all these side effects started. A_bug and afleck I didn't notice the things that your talking about with Adderal (or Ritalin) I found the exact opposite they are actually pretty strong aphrodisiacs, probably because they stimulate the pleasure centers of your brain. But different things happen to different people. Today after the new side effects started I came online to try and learn more about it, I'm glad I found this site. Also when I was doing research and I saw in there in the Eli Lilly Strattera report that 8.5% of the people taking the medication stopped taking it because of adverse side effects, that's allot of people, especially since they were getting the medication for free (for someone without healthcare coverage that might be the only way they could get any ADD medison) and they were getting paid to take it as part of the clinical study. Ya I'm going to stop taking it and switch back to the Wellbrutrin, they both do the same thing anyway and the Wellbrutrin doesn't have any side effects for me. Both Strattera and Wellbrutrin are Dopamine re-uptake inhibitors. Another thing is the long term health effects, if all of the things that are happening are just the short term side effects what about the long term side effects, I don't want to be one of the guinea pigs to find out what the long term side effects might be.
collegestudent
07-27-2003, 11:50 PM
Hey everyone,
I've been taking Strattera for four days now and I also have urinary problems and sexual side effects. I didn't think that was that bad though, I figured it might go away. But today more stuff happened. My puples got dialated and I started to feel really weird. Are there any doctors here I have the opinion that any time that your puples get dialated from a drug that is a bad situation, all the drugs that do that slow down your perception. I had to take codine for a really bad toothache and it made me feel really slow, I've felt sort of the same way with Strattera, not nearly as out of it as with the codine though. I also did lots of research before I asked my nourologist for a prescription and I didn't come across anything that looked too bad. I was supprized when the the sexual side effects took place because lots of anti-depressent drugs say that can be a side effect but that never actually happend to me. I was taking Adderal and Wellbrutrin then I switched it to Adderal and Strattera and all these side effects started. A_bug and afleck I didn't notice the things that your talking about with Adderal (or Ritalin) I found the exact opposite they are actually pretty strong aphrodisiacs, probably because they stimulate the pleasure centers of your brain. But different things happen to different people. Today after the new side effects started I came online to try and learn more about it, I'm glad I found this site. Also when I was doing research and I saw in there in the Eli Lilly Strattera report that 8.5% of the people taking the medication stopped taking it because of adverse side effects, that's allot of people, especially since they were getting the medication for free (for someone without healthcare coverage that might be the only way they could get any ADD medison) and they were getting paid to take it as part of the clinical study. Ya I'm going to stop taking it and switch back to the Wellbrutrin, they both do the same thing anyway and the Wellbrutrin doesn't have any side effects for me. Both Strattera and Wellbrutrin are Dopamine re-uptake inhibitors. Another thing is the long term health effects, if all of the things that are happening are just the short term side effects what about the long term side effects, I don't want to be one of the guinea pigs to find out what the long term side effects might be.
I've been taking Strattera for four days now and I also have urinary problems and sexual side effects. I didn't think that was that bad though, I figured it might go away. But today more stuff happened. My puples got dialated and I started to feel really weird. Are there any doctors here I have the opinion that any time that your puples get dialated from a drug that is a bad situation, all the drugs that do that slow down your perception. I had to take codine for a really bad toothache and it made me feel really slow, I've felt sort of the same way with Strattera, not nearly as out of it as with the codine though. I also did lots of research before I asked my nourologist for a prescription and I didn't come across anything that looked too bad. I was supprized when the the sexual side effects took place because lots of anti-depressent drugs say that can be a side effect but that never actually happend to me. I was taking Adderal and Wellbrutrin then I switched it to Adderal and Strattera and all these side effects started. A_bug and afleck I didn't notice the things that your talking about with Adderal (or Ritalin) I found the exact opposite they are actually pretty strong aphrodisiacs, probably because they stimulate the pleasure centers of your brain. But different things happen to different people. Today after the new side effects started I came online to try and learn more about it, I'm glad I found this site. Also when I was doing research and I saw in there in the Eli Lilly Strattera report that 8.5% of the people taking the medication stopped taking it because of adverse side effects, that's allot of people, especially since they were getting the medication for free (for someone without healthcare coverage that might be the only way they could get any ADD medison) and they were getting paid to take it as part of the clinical study. Ya I'm going to stop taking it and switch back to the Wellbrutrin, they both do the same thing anyway and the Wellbrutrin doesn't have any side effects for me. Both Strattera and Wellbrutrin are Dopamine re-uptake inhibitors. Another thing is the long term health effects, if all of the things that are happening are just the short term side effects what about the long term side effects, I don't want to be one of the guinea pigs to find out what the long term side effects might be.
AizikS
08-02-2003, 06:50 AM
Originally posted by Hotdogg21502:
I'm a 25 year-old male, just started Strattera 40 mg yesterday. It definitely does something weird to the male sex organs. First of all sexual desire and ability to get aroused is significantly impared, similar to when I was on SSRI's. When I do get aroused, however, before climax I have a large "premature" leakage of semen that oozes out, then during climax I have an otherwise normal ejaculation but with slight pain in the entire pelvic area. Never experienced this before, even when I was on the SSRI's. Any other adult male on Strattera notice this?
This is Exactly what's been happening to me. Been on it a month or so and it didn't start until a week ago. A large leakage before hand, and then one of 2 things will happen when I actually ejaculate, either it will be completely normal, or it'll be almost semisolid. Another side affect I noticed is that for no good apperent reason I'll get a sort of orgasmic feeling when I'm doing nothing at all. But it lasts longer and is far more decentralized, like it's coming from my entire spinal cord instead of from... the normal areas. Not on any other medication besides 60mg Strattera
I'm a 25 year-old male, just started Strattera 40 mg yesterday. It definitely does something weird to the male sex organs. First of all sexual desire and ability to get aroused is significantly impared, similar to when I was on SSRI's. When I do get aroused, however, before climax I have a large "premature" leakage of semen that oozes out, then during climax I have an otherwise normal ejaculation but with slight pain in the entire pelvic area. Never experienced this before, even when I was on the SSRI's. Any other adult male on Strattera notice this?
This is Exactly what's been happening to me. Been on it a month or so and it didn't start until a week ago. A large leakage before hand, and then one of 2 things will happen when I actually ejaculate, either it will be completely normal, or it'll be almost semisolid. Another side affect I noticed is that for no good apperent reason I'll get a sort of orgasmic feeling when I'm doing nothing at all. But it lasts longer and is far more decentralized, like it's coming from my entire spinal cord instead of from... the normal areas. Not on any other medication besides 60mg Strattera
strattercaster
08-03-2003, 01:24 AM
MESSAGE FROM A LONGER TERM (1 YR) USER OF STRATTERA!
Boy - was I happy to stumble on to this message board tonight. I began using strattera in the clinical trials - I'm in my mid 40s, taking 80mg/day, one AM one PM. I unknowingly lived with ADD until my recent marriage when my wife suggested that I look into an evaluation. Best thing I ever did. Strattera has helped immensely with my focus and clarity of thought, and my overall productivity. I really feel the difference when I forget to take my meds. BUT - and this is a big one - I too have experienced many of the symptoms I've read about on this board. What I have noticed is that many of the symptoms - even those of a sexual nature - do seem to improve with time. (How long? For me it was 2 months or so) The bad news is that if I forget to take my meds it's like chutes and ladders - the symptoms re-appear, and I have to build my tolerance back up - it usually takes 1-2 weeks.
1- Dry mouth - never really changed. I've gotten used to it.
2- Erectile problems - Yes. Fewer problems when I am consistant about taking the meds and don't miss a day
3. Testicular pain - YES! During the first 3 months or so. When I mentionned this one to my MD he seemed perplexed and hadn't heard about it - thought it unrelated. Very releived to see others have experienced it too - though my heart goes out to you guys! There were times it was so painful I had to sit down. If I go out of town and forget my meds for 2-3 days (it has happened) the pain returns.
4. "retrograde" ejaculation - Yes, though rarer now. Feels like I still have an urge to release more fluid; burning sensation below my glans.
5. Difficulty urinating - again, during "start up phase".
6. Semen in urine (milky urine) occasionally - I too have definately noticed that it occurs 3-4 hours after my morning meds
Reading all these, it's like, "why am I doing this?" But keep in mind that when I maintain my med schedule -it really does stabilize.
What's been most interesting to me are the comments of those arround me this past year who didn't know that I was on meds. Colleagues/friends note that I seem calmer, less distracted. My kids - teenagers - both knew about the drug and noted that I'm less irritable, and less "hair-trigger-response" in annoyance/anger (my wife says this too! :) )
The sexual side effects can definately be annoying. But they're not always present. Timing the meds seems to make a difference too. I seem to be more arousable in the morning before I take my meds -
My MD suggested viagra but, somehow, I can't bring myself to use it. DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY EXPERIENCE WITH THAT COMBO?)
Anyhow - long thread - this is a great board - will check back often. Now, I think I'll re-read some of the posts and see if I've missed something.
Boy - was I happy to stumble on to this message board tonight. I began using strattera in the clinical trials - I'm in my mid 40s, taking 80mg/day, one AM one PM. I unknowingly lived with ADD until my recent marriage when my wife suggested that I look into an evaluation. Best thing I ever did. Strattera has helped immensely with my focus and clarity of thought, and my overall productivity. I really feel the difference when I forget to take my meds. BUT - and this is a big one - I too have experienced many of the symptoms I've read about on this board. What I have noticed is that many of the symptoms - even those of a sexual nature - do seem to improve with time. (How long? For me it was 2 months or so) The bad news is that if I forget to take my meds it's like chutes and ladders - the symptoms re-appear, and I have to build my tolerance back up - it usually takes 1-2 weeks.
1- Dry mouth - never really changed. I've gotten used to it.
2- Erectile problems - Yes. Fewer problems when I am consistant about taking the meds and don't miss a day
3. Testicular pain - YES! During the first 3 months or so. When I mentionned this one to my MD he seemed perplexed and hadn't heard about it - thought it unrelated. Very releived to see others have experienced it too - though my heart goes out to you guys! There were times it was so painful I had to sit down. If I go out of town and forget my meds for 2-3 days (it has happened) the pain returns.
4. "retrograde" ejaculation - Yes, though rarer now. Feels like I still have an urge to release more fluid; burning sensation below my glans.
5. Difficulty urinating - again, during "start up phase".
6. Semen in urine (milky urine) occasionally - I too have definately noticed that it occurs 3-4 hours after my morning meds
Reading all these, it's like, "why am I doing this?" But keep in mind that when I maintain my med schedule -it really does stabilize.
What's been most interesting to me are the comments of those arround me this past year who didn't know that I was on meds. Colleagues/friends note that I seem calmer, less distracted. My kids - teenagers - both knew about the drug and noted that I'm less irritable, and less "hair-trigger-response" in annoyance/anger (my wife says this too! :) )
The sexual side effects can definately be annoying. But they're not always present. Timing the meds seems to make a difference too. I seem to be more arousable in the morning before I take my meds -
My MD suggested viagra but, somehow, I can't bring myself to use it. DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY EXPERIENCE WITH THAT COMBO?)
Anyhow - long thread - this is a great board - will check back often. Now, I think I'll re-read some of the posts and see if I've missed something.
strattercaster
08-03-2003, 01:50 AM
PS - Just read Linda/Tyler's Moms reply again, and I'd like to share my thoughts as a parent - I am not a clinician!
First, I too, would like to know what these "brain shocks" are. Might explain the fuzzy-jitters I get when I start up
Second - Linda - you're a great Mom to ask these questions, but unfortunately, you're probably not the one your son will discuss these things with. Unless you have an unusually close relationship with your son (and I mean that in a healthy sense) your son would most certainly feel more comfortable discussing this with another male. Possibly a health care worker (I noticed you're an RN)? If your son is like many boys he has probably experienced ejaculation by now. Implied in your question is "how will he know if it is a "normal" ejaculation. Perhaps during his next routine physical you can tell his MD/RN/LPN about your concer, and s/he can ask some questions or provide some baseline information about what he may or may not be experiencing with him privately during the exam. My guess is that if Tyler feels comforatble with himself generally, this too will work out. If you've been concerned about other social issues in the past, or if Tyler tends to withdraw into himself, you might want to do some pre-emtive advocacy.
Forgive me if these are things you've already thought of!
First, I too, would like to know what these "brain shocks" are. Might explain the fuzzy-jitters I get when I start up
Second - Linda - you're a great Mom to ask these questions, but unfortunately, you're probably not the one your son will discuss these things with. Unless you have an unusually close relationship with your son (and I mean that in a healthy sense) your son would most certainly feel more comfortable discussing this with another male. Possibly a health care worker (I noticed you're an RN)? If your son is like many boys he has probably experienced ejaculation by now. Implied in your question is "how will he know if it is a "normal" ejaculation. Perhaps during his next routine physical you can tell his MD/RN/LPN about your concer, and s/he can ask some questions or provide some baseline information about what he may or may not be experiencing with him privately during the exam. My guess is that if Tyler feels comforatble with himself generally, this too will work out. If you've been concerned about other social issues in the past, or if Tyler tends to withdraw into himself, you might want to do some pre-emtive advocacy.
Forgive me if these are things you've already thought of!
SummerGuy
08-10-2003, 06:37 PM
Hello,
You can put my name on the Strattera male sexual dysfunction list. I'm 46, treated for bi-polar for 6 years, first with intolerable Prozac, then Effexor and more recently and very successfully with Effexor XR for the past 3 years. My doc and I always believed I straddled both bi-polar and ADHD diagnosis.
I always complained about short-term memory and lack of focus as the major problems I experienced and he wanted to give Strattera a try and see what the results would be.
After 1 month my wife remarked that she thought I was doing better on EXR. She told me I was moodier, lacking patience and angry. All true.
I was much more emotionally stable when taking EXR and had more of an 'edge', meaning a lust to live and accomplish. I slept better, woke earlier and was more productive - I could knock out a to-do list over a weekend and wake up Monday AM feeling pretty good about myself. Now I find myself disinterested in most things again and short on patience which is needed for my kids.
Now for that male sexual dysfunction-where the heck did that come from? The passengers are hopping off the train before it gets to the station. Just bizarre! I've experienced most of the same symptoms described in the earlier posts and I noticed it within 2 weeks of beginning Strattera. I swear I have an enlarged prostate-I noticed 'shrinkage' in the flaccid size of my penis, change in urination habits and after ejaculation it feels like a grapefruit is in my butt.
Oh, the disconnect between ejaculation and orgasm is really weird. I also noticed that as soon as stimulation is stopped, it's back to the starting line again.
I have noticed positive results from Strattera: better concentration, can focus on a task, feel calmer. I also found it to be very unforgiving if I skip a dose. I recently forgot my AM dose (80) and went to work and my brain was jammed by noon. I couldn't remember an 8 character string of numbers without having to look at it 10 times while I was typing it, my brain was like sludge. I'm seeing my doc next week and inquiring if a low dose of EXR can be used with the Strattera and try that for 2 months. If not, I may ditch the strat in favor of EXR again.
Best wishes everyone
You can put my name on the Strattera male sexual dysfunction list. I'm 46, treated for bi-polar for 6 years, first with intolerable Prozac, then Effexor and more recently and very successfully with Effexor XR for the past 3 years. My doc and I always believed I straddled both bi-polar and ADHD diagnosis.
I always complained about short-term memory and lack of focus as the major problems I experienced and he wanted to give Strattera a try and see what the results would be.
After 1 month my wife remarked that she thought I was doing better on EXR. She told me I was moodier, lacking patience and angry. All true.
I was much more emotionally stable when taking EXR and had more of an 'edge', meaning a lust to live and accomplish. I slept better, woke earlier and was more productive - I could knock out a to-do list over a weekend and wake up Monday AM feeling pretty good about myself. Now I find myself disinterested in most things again and short on patience which is needed for my kids.
Now for that male sexual dysfunction-where the heck did that come from? The passengers are hopping off the train before it gets to the station. Just bizarre! I've experienced most of the same symptoms described in the earlier posts and I noticed it within 2 weeks of beginning Strattera. I swear I have an enlarged prostate-I noticed 'shrinkage' in the flaccid size of my penis, change in urination habits and after ejaculation it feels like a grapefruit is in my butt.
Oh, the disconnect between ejaculation and orgasm is really weird. I also noticed that as soon as stimulation is stopped, it's back to the starting line again.
I have noticed positive results from Strattera: better concentration, can focus on a task, feel calmer. I also found it to be very unforgiving if I skip a dose. I recently forgot my AM dose (80) and went to work and my brain was jammed by noon. I couldn't remember an 8 character string of numbers without having to look at it 10 times while I was typing it, my brain was like sludge. I'm seeing my doc next week and inquiring if a low dose of EXR can be used with the Strattera and try that for 2 months. If not, I may ditch the strat in favor of EXR again.
Best wishes everyone
Tyler's Mom
08-13-2003, 11:14 AM
strattercaster, thanks for the recommendations for my son.
My son and I can speak pretty frankly to each other, but he probably does not disclose as much as I would like.
We were in the car the other day, him in the back seat so that we were not eye to eye. I asked him about leaking urine after voiding, explained I was wondering about side effects from the Strattera. He told me this hasn't happened to him since he was really little,he's almost 13 now, so I don't "think" he is having side effects of the "male type". I will talk to him again at an oppertune time. I will try to find out about tne milky urine from sperm during urination.
I still want to know about the "brain shocks" with misssed doses of Strattera. I will try a seperate post about this.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
My son and I can speak pretty frankly to each other, but he probably does not disclose as much as I would like.
We were in the car the other day, him in the back seat so that we were not eye to eye. I asked him about leaking urine after voiding, explained I was wondering about side effects from the Strattera. He told me this hasn't happened to him since he was really little,he's almost 13 now, so I don't "think" he is having side effects of the "male type". I will talk to him again at an oppertune time. I will try to find out about tne milky urine from sperm during urination.
I still want to know about the "brain shocks" with misssed doses of Strattera. I will try a seperate post about this.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
Beaver1248
08-15-2003, 04:50 PM
I am a 19 year old male and I took Strattera for about a week just to see how I would react. I stopped taking it because I didn't really need it until my classes started back. ( I am a college student) About a week after I took the last pill I noticed that some very serious sexual side effects. Both my level of arousal and ability to achieve an erection were both greatly affected.
I am curious to know if anyone has continued to have side affects after they stopped taking Strattera, and if so, how long to they continue?
Thanks!
I am curious to know if anyone has continued to have side affects after they stopped taking Strattera, and if so, how long to they continue?
Thanks!
strattercaster
08-16-2003, 07:17 PM
Given the number of posts to this topic, and the number of visiters it seems pretty imperative that we get this message to Lilly if they claim to know nothing about it.To the previous poster (whose tag I already forgot - Strattera doesn't help mid-life memory loss :) - I would check with a clinician - and a friend/significant other before starting and stopping Stratter. I too thought I could forego my meds during "lighter", less demanding periods. Uh-uh. Only fooling myself. Family and friends saw the difference, Thought I could take a weekend break from meds too, hoped that would improve my libido/erections - well, it did, but I think I experienced what others have referred to as "brain shocks" i.e., depression and slower processing.
On a much brighter note, I've found that taking my meds consistantly over time restores my libido to pretty much where it was prior to starting Strattera.
For those who are experiencing morning nausea, try splitting your dose - half in the AM half in the PM - this has helped with me, and others I know. My doc told me that the literature suggests there's no difference in most people's response to Strattera if this is done (But obviously, check with your physician first if you have one.)
Thank god my wife helped me through the long adjustment period. Hopefully everyone out there will maintain a sense of humor about it, and open lines of communication with their partner. And if you have no partner - hey, remember what Woody Allen said about masturbation. He enjoys it. "It's making love with someone I love". :)
On a much brighter note, I've found that taking my meds consistantly over time restores my libido to pretty much where it was prior to starting Strattera.
For those who are experiencing morning nausea, try splitting your dose - half in the AM half in the PM - this has helped with me, and others I know. My doc told me that the literature suggests there's no difference in most people's response to Strattera if this is done (But obviously, check with your physician first if you have one.)
Thank god my wife helped me through the long adjustment period. Hopefully everyone out there will maintain a sense of humor about it, and open lines of communication with their partner. And if you have no partner - hey, remember what Woody Allen said about masturbation. He enjoys it. "It's making love with someone I love". :)
edarcy1
08-20-2003, 02:53 PM
It is really GREAT that you guys are willing to share your stories. Especially when they are so personal. I myself am not ADD, however, my spouse was diagnosed over 2 years ago. He hae been on all kinds of meds from Zoloft to Welbutrin. Now he is on Stratera. Our sexual life has not been good at all since the Stratera, in all honesty it has been non existent. We are young, this should not be a problem for us. For some time now I have been thinking that maybe it was me, maybe I was either doing something wrong or maybe I was just not interesting enough for him anymore. It even has gotten to the point that I was really starting to think that there was someone else. Of course my friends do not help in this department because they are always saying when your man is not getting it from you they are getting it from someone. This is a heart breaking thought for me. I have discussed this with him and he has told me that it is the meds that the side effects have been causing him the same that I have been reading in this forum. Because you guys have shared your stories you have made me feel so much better about myself and have helped me to understand what he is going through. Thanks so much. This is not an easy subject to discuss with people. Now I am thinking that maybe he needs to go off of this medication because the negative side effects seem to out weigh the positive.
strattercaster
08-21-2003, 04:39 AM
Edarcy -
Thanks for the feedback! That's exactly how I felt when I stumbled on to this site and these responses not long ago. So glad to rad that you and your husband are discussing this issue - that says a lot about your relationship. I'd encourage your husband to read these responses too - and to share his own experience. My physician was involved in the clinical trials for Strattera, and when I shared some of my side effects with him (particularly a nasty one about testicular pain) he said he hadn;t heard about that from any other patient which made me feel pretty odd - yet I've read about on this board. (And fortunately, like many of these side effects, they DO seem to improve/go away in time in many cases).
Anyway - best of luck, encourage your husband to log on (no pun intended) and keep the communication lines open in your marriage.
PS - Anybody hear from Jacko recently? Hey - thanks for starting this great thread - how're you doing?
Thanks for the feedback! That's exactly how I felt when I stumbled on to this site and these responses not long ago. So glad to rad that you and your husband are discussing this issue - that says a lot about your relationship. I'd encourage your husband to read these responses too - and to share his own experience. My physician was involved in the clinical trials for Strattera, and when I shared some of my side effects with him (particularly a nasty one about testicular pain) he said he hadn;t heard about that from any other patient which made me feel pretty odd - yet I've read about on this board. (And fortunately, like many of these side effects, they DO seem to improve/go away in time in many cases).
Anyway - best of luck, encourage your husband to log on (no pun intended) and keep the communication lines open in your marriage.
PS - Anybody hear from Jacko recently? Hey - thanks for starting this great thread - how're you doing?
edarcy1
08-21-2003, 12:00 PM
Strattercaster ~
You are right about the repsonse when it is mentioned to a physician. My husband read this thread and he said "hey this is exactly how I have been feeling!" Being military he has email access to his Doc. He emailed him the concerns he was having relative to the side effects mentioned and what would you know ~ the same response you had received "I have not heard of these side effects!" Then my husband proceeded to state that the studies done on Strattera were done on children and not the effects that it would have on adults positive or negative. It is my opinion that when a drug (especially a mood altering drug) is being distributed, side effects pertaining to both child and adult should be distributed. This at the very least gives the patient heads up (no pun intended) on what they may or may not expect. I have done some research myself through the WEB of course with some prevail concerning sexual side effects. Maybe some copying and pasting with some current info can help.
Again ~ Thanks!
Edarcy1
You are right about the repsonse when it is mentioned to a physician. My husband read this thread and he said "hey this is exactly how I have been feeling!" Being military he has email access to his Doc. He emailed him the concerns he was having relative to the side effects mentioned and what would you know ~ the same response you had received "I have not heard of these side effects!" Then my husband proceeded to state that the studies done on Strattera were done on children and not the effects that it would have on adults positive or negative. It is my opinion that when a drug (especially a mood altering drug) is being distributed, side effects pertaining to both child and adult should be distributed. This at the very least gives the patient heads up (no pun intended) on what they may or may not expect. I have done some research myself through the WEB of course with some prevail concerning sexual side effects. Maybe some copying and pasting with some current info can help.
Again ~ Thanks!
Edarcy1
CoreBurn
08-21-2003, 04:19 PM
I just wanted to add my name to list of people that experienced these side effects with Strattera. I had the exact same male sexual side effects as everyone else is saying in this thread. Probably the only good thing Strattera did for me, is I kinda seemed to feel more motivated to do things I normally put off. But even that got counteracted by me feeling sleepy alot, throw that in with the sexual side effects, feeling thirsty all the time, feeling like I need to urinate but then going only to find out I didn't need to go quite as bad as I thought... which got really annoying when for the first time since I was a kid I started waking up in the middle of the night to run to the bathroom to urinate. Now I don't know about anyone else but getting up in the middle of the night doesn't help my focus during the day very much. Which reminds me I also was having more vivid dreams than normal, but not too bad. But all in all I'm glad to be back on adderall again, though I didn't know what to think about asking my doc to go back on it... and when I told him about the side effects, he (which I expected) said he had never heard of those effects, but I was happy he let me go back to what had been working for me all along.
strattercaster
08-23-2003, 12:43 AM
Edarcy - Great news that your husband read the posts. They were pretty eye opening for me too! A couple of things - Strattera was actually developed by Lilly as the first medication specifically for adults with ADD/ADHD. It is also being used with children at this point, as it is a non narcotic alternative to other children meds. I would also like to suggest that Strattera is not a mood altering drug. There is no "high", no false sense of happiness or contentment - just a greater resistance to distraction; more focus.
Coreburn - until I read your post and your noting vivid dreams, I had forgot all about those! Yes indeed- there have been some very vivid, detailed dreams.
To one and all - a hopeful reminder that these sexual side effects do seem to decrease in time. Until they do, see if you can alter your timing of sex - perhaps you'll have more feeling in the morning as opposed to the evening/nightime hours.
Coreburn - until I read your post and your noting vivid dreams, I had forgot all about those! Yes indeed- there have been some very vivid, detailed dreams.
To one and all - a hopeful reminder that these sexual side effects do seem to decrease in time. Until they do, see if you can alter your timing of sex - perhaps you'll have more feeling in the morning as opposed to the evening/nightime hours.
rlyray42
08-27-2003, 01:45 PM
I have been on 60mg of Strattera since April, I also had the sexual side effects in the beginning. They have almost completely gone away. I was just at my doc this week and we are upping the dose to 80mg, so it will be interesting to see if any of the side effects come back with the increased dosage.
ClearNow
08-28-2003, 12:25 AM
I'm a 50 something male who's been taking 80mg of Strattera since early June 2003. (We ramped up on the standard 40mg packages)
Early on I experienced almost all the symptoms as others I've read about here. I'd not had any prostate symptoms before Strattera but "My Friend, The Doctor" (MFTD) suggests that I might be "just on the edge" give my age. (Gee, THANKS Doc <G> )
I do sometimes get that ‘not quite finished’ situation with an occasional couple of drops no matter how long I shake it. <sigh> I wear dark slacks more now. <G>
I had the initial "shakes" an hour or so after I'd take it in the a.m. but my body seems now fully accepting of them and I can even take both pills on an empty stomach if need be.
I had the erection/orgasm issues at low levels but they’ve almost completely subsided. Just an occasional sensation.
I’d not noticed any dry mouth but now that I see it in some replies I think I MIGHT have this occasionally. Minor enough for me to not note it.
After about 3 days on the med I noticed that I had this amazing visual clarity. Like the world was physically brighter. I noticed things that I’d passed over.
Once 10 days passed I started noticing better clarity, focus, etc. --- I now no longer notice that things have changed; they just ARE better.
The bottom line for me, having never been evaluated for ADD nor treated with meds, was that Strattera is a LIFE CHANGING regimen for me!!! I would NEVER trade the clarity, focus, silence of mind, and Bias to ACT that Strattera has given me for relief of these minor symptoms.
The only regret I have is that, looking back, I’ve had this all my life. <sigh> WHAT I could have accomplished if I’d only known. Still, what do they say, “regret for the past is a waste of spirit”? I’m MOVIN’ AHEAD!!!
Best of Luck to everyone, on Strattera or whatever you find that gives you peace.
“Clear Now”
Early on I experienced almost all the symptoms as others I've read about here. I'd not had any prostate symptoms before Strattera but "My Friend, The Doctor" (MFTD) suggests that I might be "just on the edge" give my age. (Gee, THANKS Doc <G> )
I do sometimes get that ‘not quite finished’ situation with an occasional couple of drops no matter how long I shake it. <sigh> I wear dark slacks more now. <G>
I had the initial "shakes" an hour or so after I'd take it in the a.m. but my body seems now fully accepting of them and I can even take both pills on an empty stomach if need be.
I had the erection/orgasm issues at low levels but they’ve almost completely subsided. Just an occasional sensation.
I’d not noticed any dry mouth but now that I see it in some replies I think I MIGHT have this occasionally. Minor enough for me to not note it.
After about 3 days on the med I noticed that I had this amazing visual clarity. Like the world was physically brighter. I noticed things that I’d passed over.
Once 10 days passed I started noticing better clarity, focus, etc. --- I now no longer notice that things have changed; they just ARE better.
The bottom line for me, having never been evaluated for ADD nor treated with meds, was that Strattera is a LIFE CHANGING regimen for me!!! I would NEVER trade the clarity, focus, silence of mind, and Bias to ACT that Strattera has given me for relief of these minor symptoms.
The only regret I have is that, looking back, I’ve had this all my life. <sigh> WHAT I could have accomplished if I’d only known. Still, what do they say, “regret for the past is a waste of spirit”? I’m MOVIN’ AHEAD!!!
Best of Luck to everyone, on Strattera or whatever you find that gives you peace.
“Clear Now”
razoredge
09-03-2003, 12:06 AM
I'm glad I found this thread and feel fortunate to hear everyone's input on this sensitive and personal topic. Here's my two cents:
I've been taking Wellbutrin (SR) 300 mg/day for about three years. I added Strattera at 85 mg/day three months ago. So I guess that means I'm on two uptake inhibitors.?
I agree that the strange side effects are startling. However, the dizziness, headaches and constipation all went away after about five weeks.
I still need to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but view this as a good thing forcing me to keep well hydrated. I never drink alcohol BTW.
I also occasionally have the urge to pee immediately after relieving myself. However, I know it is a false alarm - ignore it and the urge goes away.
For me these side effects are minor compared to the pluses: relaxed state of mind, better focus/organization ability, clearer thinking/reasoning.
I understand why everyone is so concerned about the effects on sexual functions. I am 42 and sexually compulsive. It is a high priority for me.
It does take a bit more stimulation to get hard now that I am on Strattera, however, once erect I last longer. Achieving orgasm takes a little longer (a good thing) but when it comes the orgasm lasts twice as long (45 secs. instead of 20) and is twice as intense.
I'm actually more in synch with my partner with Strattera. She prefers a slow build, gradually ramping excitement like a wave that eventually lets itself go and topples over. Yet it's not an explosion, but more of a continuous rush as the water and bubbling foam picks you up and carries you along (exact time varies) before leaving you on the beach.
The sex is better. I concentrate on my partner more and enjoy the ride as much as the climax.
My experience with this drug is to give it some time - never miss a dose - remain calm. The pluses outweigh the minuses.
But remember, I NEVER drink alcohol. Possibly this is part of the reason my experiences have been different that some of you. I do not know how Strattera reacts in the presence of alcohol.
Many thanks again for sharing this discussion.
I've been taking Wellbutrin (SR) 300 mg/day for about three years. I added Strattera at 85 mg/day three months ago. So I guess that means I'm on two uptake inhibitors.?
I agree that the strange side effects are startling. However, the dizziness, headaches and constipation all went away after about five weeks.
I still need to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but view this as a good thing forcing me to keep well hydrated. I never drink alcohol BTW.
I also occasionally have the urge to pee immediately after relieving myself. However, I know it is a false alarm - ignore it and the urge goes away.
For me these side effects are minor compared to the pluses: relaxed state of mind, better focus/organization ability, clearer thinking/reasoning.
I understand why everyone is so concerned about the effects on sexual functions. I am 42 and sexually compulsive. It is a high priority for me.
It does take a bit more stimulation to get hard now that I am on Strattera, however, once erect I last longer. Achieving orgasm takes a little longer (a good thing) but when it comes the orgasm lasts twice as long (45 secs. instead of 20) and is twice as intense.
I'm actually more in synch with my partner with Strattera. She prefers a slow build, gradually ramping excitement like a wave that eventually lets itself go and topples over. Yet it's not an explosion, but more of a continuous rush as the water and bubbling foam picks you up and carries you along (exact time varies) before leaving you on the beach.
The sex is better. I concentrate on my partner more and enjoy the ride as much as the climax.
My experience with this drug is to give it some time - never miss a dose - remain calm. The pluses outweigh the minuses.
But remember, I NEVER drink alcohol. Possibly this is part of the reason my experiences have been different that some of you. I do not know how Strattera reacts in the presence of alcohol.
Many thanks again for sharing this discussion.
strattercaster
09-06-2003, 06:42 PM
Personally, I have not suffered any ill effects from casual drinking and strattera. Occasional glasses of wine - sometimes at most, my wife and I will go out and share a bottle of wine. Note that I take my 80 mg between 9am-12noon. Would be interested to hear of others' experiences.
lav322
09-07-2003, 04:55 AM
I am 24 and been on stratera for a two months now. I suddenly had the same side effect as some have explained. The burning urge to pee and the major discomfort in the prostate and the testicles. At 24 I doubted protstate cancer or similar problem but thought I was too young but it still scared the sh*# out of me. Also I feared an STD with the buring sensation that I had to pee. The last thing is the size of my penis in the flacid state. Almost compared to the shrinkage of being in very cold water. I love how the stratera helps me function during the day especially during school. But that is not worth losing my sexual ability or to cause problems with my prostate. Can anyone help????????
lav322
09-07-2003, 05:05 AM
I forgot to mention I used to take 10mg adderall as needed for my college coursed and I now take 10mg adderall xr as needed for school. I don't think this affects my side-effect because I don't take the adderall often enough (1 to 3 times a week but usually the lesser). I did take two weeks off of the stratera (between shool semesters and didn't need it) and all the syptoms went away. I am contemplating dropping the stratera but I don't want to unless I have to.
insite
09-11-2003, 04:19 PM
Hi guys. Thought I'd share my experiences since I've been on Strattera for a while now (4 months) and have figured out a lot. FYI, I am a 28 year old male on no other medications. I take 80mg per day. First of all, the side effects mentioned herein have all happened to me. I'll break them down:
1)Smaller flaccid size (Gone)
2)Seminal discharge after urination (Gone)
3)Erectile difficulties (Gone)
4)Buzzing in the ear (Almost Gone)
5)Cold Sweats (Gone)
6)Feeling 'wierd' (Gone)
7)Dilated pupils (Gone)
8)Headache (Gone)
9)Waking up in the middle of the night (under control)
10) Testicular pain (only when I haven't 'gotten off' in awhile)
Okay, most of my side effects were present for about two months after I began taking this medication. Nearly all of them are gone now. I still climax sooner during sex, but this is welcome as it used to take me way too long sometimes. Also, orgasms are much longer than before (darn). I was pretty nervous my first few weeks taking this. I had a couple of 'freak outs' where I would feel very detatched and panicky. I would get cold sweats and a bit shaky. I have isolated this to a lack of L-Tyrosine in the diet. If I don't have enough tyrosine, I feel wierd. I now supplement my diet with tyrosine every day. If anyone else experiences these problems, try this or try drinking a protein shake with your dosage.
The waking up in the middle of the night thing i have determined to be caused by blood levels of the medication dropping below a certain level. For me, I will wake up EXACTLY twenty-one hours after my dosage. To get up at six AM, I take my Strattera at nine AM. Now I sleep through the night and I pop out of bed in the morning. Getting up used to be a HUGE issue for me, so this is helpful.
Nausea seems to not be a problem if I eat a little bit of food (crackers or something) with my dosage. Also, sometimes I split my dosage. I've found that even taking them half an hour apart helps.
Also, I have had issues with alcoholism (I do drink) in the past. It seems that Strattera almost entirely eliminates this problem. I usually drink quite heavily, but find now that I am fine with one or two drinks.
As for the overall effect of this medication? It has completely changed my life. I have never been treated for ADD in the past. For about a year, I have been unable to focus on my work. If I'm not interested in something, I don't do it. I was always tired, a bit depressed, and highly unmotivated. Now I have an abundance of energy, I'm infinitely more social, I get my work done like a champ, and I don't procrastinate. I am finding enjoyment in tasks that used to be total chores. I am more organized. Watching myself do the things that I usually put off (and do them well!) has done a tremendous amount to my esteem. I am happy as hell. The side effects used to bother me with this stuff, but now the benefits so outweigh the negatives that I would never consider cessation of this medication. I'm glad I stuck it out; my only fear is that someday it will stop working. I hope to god it does not.
------------------
~~~~~~~~~~~~
insite
1)Smaller flaccid size (Gone)
2)Seminal discharge after urination (Gone)
3)Erectile difficulties (Gone)
4)Buzzing in the ear (Almost Gone)
5)Cold Sweats (Gone)
6)Feeling 'wierd' (Gone)
7)Dilated pupils (Gone)
8)Headache (Gone)
9)Waking up in the middle of the night (under control)
10) Testicular pain (only when I haven't 'gotten off' in awhile)
Okay, most of my side effects were present for about two months after I began taking this medication. Nearly all of them are gone now. I still climax sooner during sex, but this is welcome as it used to take me way too long sometimes. Also, orgasms are much longer than before (darn). I was pretty nervous my first few weeks taking this. I had a couple of 'freak outs' where I would feel very detatched and panicky. I would get cold sweats and a bit shaky. I have isolated this to a lack of L-Tyrosine in the diet. If I don't have enough tyrosine, I feel wierd. I now supplement my diet with tyrosine every day. If anyone else experiences these problems, try this or try drinking a protein shake with your dosage.
The waking up in the middle of the night thing i have determined to be caused by blood levels of the medication dropping below a certain level. For me, I will wake up EXACTLY twenty-one hours after my dosage. To get up at six AM, I take my Strattera at nine AM. Now I sleep through the night and I pop out of bed in the morning. Getting up used to be a HUGE issue for me, so this is helpful.
Nausea seems to not be a problem if I eat a little bit of food (crackers or something) with my dosage. Also, sometimes I split my dosage. I've found that even taking them half an hour apart helps.
Also, I have had issues with alcoholism (I do drink) in the past. It seems that Strattera almost entirely eliminates this problem. I usually drink quite heavily, but find now that I am fine with one or two drinks.
As for the overall effect of this medication? It has completely changed my life. I have never been treated for ADD in the past. For about a year, I have been unable to focus on my work. If I'm not interested in something, I don't do it. I was always tired, a bit depressed, and highly unmotivated. Now I have an abundance of energy, I'm infinitely more social, I get my work done like a champ, and I don't procrastinate. I am finding enjoyment in tasks that used to be total chores. I am more organized. Watching myself do the things that I usually put off (and do them well!) has done a tremendous amount to my esteem. I am happy as hell. The side effects used to bother me with this stuff, but now the benefits so outweigh the negatives that I would never consider cessation of this medication. I'm glad I stuck it out; my only fear is that someday it will stop working. I hope to god it does not.
------------------
~~~~~~~~~~~~
insite
jkil22
09-11-2003, 04:53 PM
Wow insite, sounds like it really worked out for you. You stuck with it for 2 months I don't think many peopel would do that, esp. with their children. Perhapes I'll give it another try and wait it out like you did if my new medication doesn't work. You are the Strattera poster boy.
insite
09-11-2003, 05:35 PM
No joke! Been great for me. I was EXTREMELY against the idea of medications like this after negative experiences with Prozac and Paxil years ago. I was trying to figure out why I was so unmotivated and tired all the time. I'm getting a new job soon that will require my best performance consistantly. My therapist of five years mentioned ADD. I said no way. The next day I had an appointment with a Psychiatrist for analysis, and without mentioning ADD, he said, "You have ADD." Suprised me. There was one day when I was JUST about to chuck this stuff (during a little freak out) but didn't because I had a final exam and I had to study stuff that I HATE for like 48 straight hours. Boy am I glad I kept taking it. I cannot remember the last time that I felt this good about myself.
testing
09-14-2003, 04:16 PM
I told my doctor I thought I could be more effective in work if I had a drug to help me concentrate better. i went to a nuerologist and he said mild ADD. Never on drugs, nothing before. Never diagnosd with ADD etc. 25mg Strattera. Side effects stink. It has been 4 days but I am ready to quit. Your posts help me with that position. My main question is how bad was everyones ADD. I made it through school OK. Have a few business's. Get bored easily and don't like to follow through on paperwork. Did you guys have it alot worse? I have functioned ok in society so far and thought this would make me able to sit and complete the paperwork that I usually put off. Alot of the posts mentioned other drugs before so is my case mild enough where the side effects are not worth it?
Any ideas Thanks
Any ideas Thanks
memehegan
09-18-2003, 07:48 PM
hey - you guys have been incredibly open and honest- now heres my question- I am a mom of a 12 year old with PDDNOS, anxiety issues and adhd, my doctor wants to find a drug that lasts longer for him- would any of you ever consider putting a 12 year old boy on this after what you have been experiencing? -meme
Tyler's Mom
09-18-2003, 11:21 PM
Hi memehegan,
My son is almost 13 y/o and has been on Strattera since March of this year. It seems to work well according to my son, but I don't see that it helps much. He is also taking Concerta 27 mg each morning also. This seems to work pretty well, but his tics are increased. But that is another long story.
I was worried about the side effects with my adoloscent son as well.
I have asked my son about the male side effects like "Do you have a urine drip after you finish going to the bathroom" and "Is your urine kind of milky looking at times" and the answer to both was no.
I feel much better since seeing the posts that say the side effects go away after a couple of months.
If you do question you son, try to do it in the least embarrasing and threatening manner that you can. I questioned my son while we were in the car and he was in the backseat.
I hope this helps you some.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
My son is almost 13 y/o and has been on Strattera since March of this year. It seems to work well according to my son, but I don't see that it helps much. He is also taking Concerta 27 mg each morning also. This seems to work pretty well, but his tics are increased. But that is another long story.
I was worried about the side effects with my adoloscent son as well.
I have asked my son about the male side effects like "Do you have a urine drip after you finish going to the bathroom" and "Is your urine kind of milky looking at times" and the answer to both was no.
I feel much better since seeing the posts that say the side effects go away after a couple of months.
If you do question you son, try to do it in the least embarrasing and threatening manner that you can. I questioned my son while we were in the car and he was in the backseat.
I hope this helps you some.
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
memehegan
09-18-2003, 11:33 PM
I am very hesitant because my son already has poor bladder control, if he eats any foods that are not on the gfcf diet or corn based he has no bladder control for 1-3 days, he is already moody and can be very verbally aggressive when stressed or cranky after school, I cant imagine these behaviors worse- and then theres the weeks to get the full benefit- Jay without one does of ritilin is non- stop hi-pitched verbal squeels and what sounds like verbal tics- he has so many issues and diagnosis that verbal tics just make the doctor throw his hands up as if thats the least of our problems. And god forbid it does worsen the behaviors- much worse than they are and I would have to stop working, then I have read that it takes weeks to get out of your system. I am just not so sure that this is the drug for him, the concerta sent him over the edge, he was a nightmare- two or three weeks of that could put him back in the hospital. -meme
strattercaster
10-05-2003, 08:39 AM
Just an update....past week have had a crazy schedule, and again forgot a couple days of afternoon doses. A variety of Male Sexual Side Effects (MSSE?) returned...the "milky urine", difficulty with erection/ejaculation etc. This is a real drag. Add these to the "brain shocks" that comes along with a missed dose...........major incentives to stay on schedule. Benefits still outweigh these side effects though, but it is getting to be tough going.
Tyler's Mom
10-06-2003, 01:30 PM
MEMEHEGAN-
You could try Strattera and still keep your child on the ritalin for a few weeks in the the Strattera builds up.
The Strattera alone was not sufficient for my son, he also takes Concerta with the Strattera. Talk to your MD about this.
Good luck, Linda
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
You could try Strattera and still keep your child on the ritalin for a few weeks in the the Strattera builds up.
The Strattera alone was not sufficient for my son, he also takes Concerta with the Strattera. Talk to your MD about this.
Good luck, Linda
------------------
Mom of a wonderful "Tigger"
bill costell
10-06-2003, 09:17 PM
Originally posted by strattercaster:
Just an update....past week have had a crazy schedule, and again forgot a couple days of afternoon doses. A variety of Male Sexual Side Effects (MSSE?) returned...the "milky urine", difficulty with erection/ejaculation etc. This is a real drag. Add these to the "brain shocks" that comes along with a missed dose...........major incentives to stay on schedule. Benefits still outweigh these side effects though, but it is getting to be tough going.
Hey stratt. How many MG do you take per day? I am on 100MG as of 5 days ago. No side effects yet.
Just an update....past week have had a crazy schedule, and again forgot a couple days of afternoon doses. A variety of Male Sexual Side Effects (MSSE?) returned...the "milky urine", difficulty with erection/ejaculation etc. This is a real drag. Add these to the "brain shocks" that comes along with a missed dose...........major incentives to stay on schedule. Benefits still outweigh these side effects though, but it is getting to be tough going.
Hey stratt. How many MG do you take per day? I am on 100MG as of 5 days ago. No side effects yet.
strattercaster
10-07-2003, 06:56 PM
80mg/day - I take 1/2 doses about 4-5 hours apart, first dose in the morning. I've always found that I take about a week to re-stabilize. I honestly don't remember how long I was on strattera before these side effects kicked in - I've been on it about 14 months. I'm glad for you that you don't have to deal with this! Hope your luck holds out. Have you noticed any of the positive effects yet, i.e., better focus, less distractability etc.
bill costell
10-07-2003, 09:29 PM
stratt:
any positive results... well there is the rub. Yes and no. Day 70 was today. I ramped up from 18MG to the 100MG I have been using for the past 9 days. I feel no need to use drugs (pain killers)like I do when I am not on Strattera. That is an EXCELLENT benefit. My wife says that I am "More Calm" than without it... but I dont know about that. The problem is... that when I first started (see my old august post "21 days of Strattera Success" )I had some AMAZING days during days 5 and 10. Great focus, excellent sense of wellbeing (not usually achieved unless I took Codiene or other stuff, excellent and noticable improvement in hand-eye coordination... now, I am still searching for those same effects. I am at the max dosage now. Could go up to 120MG because that was as high as they went in the trials. Have/do you have any of the positive and noticable effects? Will I ever see those "First Few Days" effects?
bill c
any positive results... well there is the rub. Yes and no. Day 70 was today. I ramped up from 18MG to the 100MG I have been using for the past 9 days. I feel no need to use drugs (pain killers)like I do when I am not on Strattera. That is an EXCELLENT benefit. My wife says that I am "More Calm" than without it... but I dont know about that. The problem is... that when I first started (see my old august post "21 days of Strattera Success" )I had some AMAZING days during days 5 and 10. Great focus, excellent sense of wellbeing (not usually achieved unless I took Codiene or other stuff, excellent and noticable improvement in hand-eye coordination... now, I am still searching for those same effects. I am at the max dosage now. Could go up to 120MG because that was as high as they went in the trials. Have/do you have any of the positive and noticable effects? Will I ever see those "First Few Days" effects?
bill c
jkil22
10-08-2003, 02:00 PM
All these side effects and Lilly hasn't a clue? I would have to believe that giving this medication to a male going though puberty could have some long-term consequences, but atlas there is no study for that, why not? Only time will time if that's the case, if it is Lilly will be seeing several lawsuits against them. I would like to see 20-20 or 60 minutes to do a story on this, anyone have connections?
verymadd
10-09-2003, 11:13 AM
Ok heres the deal. Strattera is bad very bad. I started the pill last sunday. On monday at about 10:00 A.M. I had Sperm right after uranation. Also I felt that My uranation was incomplete. I freak out, the reason for this is I just had intocourse on saterday night. So immeditly I thought of a STD. If you research the systoms they are almost the same. Of course no doctor is nologed enouf on Strattera to see or even here of these systoms. This is wrong!! To all the people out there take yourself off this drug imeditly and go back to Ratilin!! I will never take this drug untill it has been fully tested in adult males. As we all know this will take years. So in the mean time take what works. I hope this helps and remember your doctor will not no anything about these systoms so dont waste yopur time!!!!!!
strattercaster
10-13-2003, 06:23 PM
Originally posted by bill costell:
stratt:
I had some AMAZING days during days 5 and 10. Great focus, excellent sense of wellbeing (not usually achieved unless I took Codiene or other stuff, excellent and noticable improvement in hand-eye coordination... now, I am still searching for those same effects. ........ Have/do you have any of the positive and noticable effects? Will I ever see those "First Few Days" effects?
bill c
Yes, I have had some great days and some of those "First Few Days" effects - but over the long term I have found that there are good days and some not as good days. Variables seem to include how much sleep I'm getting, how much coffee I drank in the morning, and how long the days are. Lack of sleep/too much coffee/short winter days all cause some degree of problems. But as I have mentionned elsewhere in this thread there have been 1-2 days when I have forgotten to take my meds, usually due to a weekend trip. On those occasions, there is question about "bad days" - much more sense of disorganization in my thoughts and personal affect. Since this is the male sex thread, I should note that the "good sex days" :) meaning the minimal sexual dysfunction days occur when I remember to take Strattera on a regular basis. As far as the comments re: investigation of side effects and possible lawsuits, I should note that these effects were noted in the trials of the drug, and do not seem to differ significantly from the percentages of men who experience similar side effects from other antidepressants/serotonin uptake inhibiters. For myself, the positive effects far outweight the occasional nasty side effects that I've experienced.
So- best of luck Bill- Here's to more good days!
stratt:
I had some AMAZING days during days 5 and 10. Great focus, excellent sense of wellbeing (not usually achieved unless I took Codiene or other stuff, excellent and noticable improvement in hand-eye coordination... now, I am still searching for those same effects. ........ Have/do you have any of the positive and noticable effects? Will I ever see those "First Few Days" effects?
bill c
Yes, I have had some great days and some of those "First Few Days" effects - but over the long term I have found that there are good days and some not as good days. Variables seem to include how much sleep I'm getting, how much coffee I drank in the morning, and how long the days are. Lack of sleep/too much coffee/short winter days all cause some degree of problems. But as I have mentionned elsewhere in this thread there have been 1-2 days when I have forgotten to take my meds, usually due to a weekend trip. On those occasions, there is question about "bad days" - much more sense of disorganization in my thoughts and personal affect. Since this is the male sex thread, I should note that the "good sex days" :) meaning the minimal sexual dysfunction days occur when I remember to take Strattera on a regular basis. As far as the comments re: investigation of side effects and possible lawsuits, I should note that these effects were noted in the trials of the drug, and do not seem to differ significantly from the percentages of men who experience similar side effects from other antidepressants/serotonin uptake inhibiters. For myself, the positive effects far outweight the occasional nasty side effects that I've experienced.
So- best of luck Bill- Here's to more good days!
mainedude1970
10-20-2003, 03:29 PM
What good info. It's ironic how fast some of these symptoms set in. First, I was diagnosed with AADD a few weeks ago. Went to my PCP today and he started me on strattera. I had read a little bit about it, butnot much. Mostly read about adderall which I plan to try next in order to get a sense of which one of these might work best for me. Not much of a comparison trying only one. Anyway, after reading about the side affects, I was a little concerned, I'm a 33 yo male. So, I took my first 40mg dose at 11:00am, and as you can see it's only 2:30pm. Well let me tell you I was quite surprised. The posts about the premature semen and the out of sync orgasm couldn't be more on the money. Unbelievable....and it's only been 3 hours. Go figure? Wow.
time will tell.
time will tell.
strattercaster
10-31-2003, 08:45 PM
Just a bump to catch the eye of any previous contributers to this long running thread to see if there are any updates.
strattercaster
10-31-2003, 11:39 PM
To be medicated, or not to be medicated : that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take medication against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them?
To try: to sleep;
No more; and by a sleep to say we end
The heart-ache and the thousand natural brain shocks
That male flesh is heir to, 'tis a neural consummation
Devoutly to be wish'd.
To try, to weep;
To go to sleep: perchance to love: ay, there's the rub;
For in that sleep of dearth what dreams may I come
When we have shuffled off this mortal 360 coil,
Must give us pause: there's the respect
That makes calamity of so-long to a love life;
For who would bear the whips and scorns of mine,
The oppressor's wrong, the proud man's con-tumescence,
The pangs of despised love, the in-law's delay,
The insolence of orifice and the spurns
That patient spouses of the unworthy takes,
When he himself might his disquietus make
With a bare bodkin?
(with apologies to Will Shakespeare)
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take medication against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them?
To try: to sleep;
No more; and by a sleep to say we end
The heart-ache and the thousand natural brain shocks
That male flesh is heir to, 'tis a neural consummation
Devoutly to be wish'd.
To try, to weep;
To go to sleep: perchance to love: ay, there's the rub;
For in that sleep of dearth what dreams may I come
When we have shuffled off this mortal 360 coil,
Must give us pause: there's the respect
That makes calamity of so-long to a love life;
For who would bear the whips and scorns of mine,
The oppressor's wrong, the proud man's con-tumescence,
The pangs of despised love, the in-law's delay,
The insolence of orifice and the spurns
That patient spouses of the unworthy takes,
When he himself might his disquietus make
With a bare bodkin?
(with apologies to Will Shakespeare)
R3dRang3r
11-28-2003, 10:18 AM
I'll join the list of having similar problems. Been on it for about three weeks now, and I noticed the first time I had sex, I had pain after orgasm that lasted several minutes. I have noticed for the last week or so that after urinating I will have a similar pain that will last for a few minutes. I believe it is prostrate related and a definite side effect of the meds. I take my meds in one dose in the am, and notice the symptoms are worse in the am and gradual improve as the medicine leaves my system. The next morning before I take my meds, I urinate perfectly normal with no pain. The litterature that came with the prescription warns about not taking it if you have bladder or prostrate problems, so it would appear that Lilly is well aware of it having an effect on this part of the anatomy.
strattercaster
11-30-2003, 10:10 AM
Ya - they are. The concern seems to be making an existing problem worse, rather then creating a dangerous one. The clinical trials showed there was no difference in the benefit of Strattera if the patient "split the dose" as long as the second dose was taken no later then 5 hours after the first (in order to maintain the benefits associated with Strattera). So, you may want to try that. It works for me - I generally take my second little blue pill 3-4 hours after the first, and only experience those side effects if I miss a day. Three weeks is still a pretty short time in terms of the body's getting used to a new drug. You may find that the situation continues to improve after two or three months. No question that this drug does have some nasty side effects for our gender. Good Luck!
scatteredBob
12-01-2003, 05:31 PM
I am a 36 yo male. Ironically I work with many kids diagnosed with ADD or ADHD. I am a Mental Health Therapist lol. I remember well, as a child, having the teachers put me in "a box"(aka carroler) to keep me on task. Even remember my 2nd grade teacher dumping the contents of my messy desk on the floor of the classroom (ouch!). As an adult I get by, but paperwork, managing $, and FINISHING TASKS(just ask my wife) are a daily struggle. Once I heard about a non-stimulant treatment for ADD, I figured I'd give it a try(Stratera). I intentionally did not read info on side-effects for fear that I would be thinking about them too much. I've been on 40mg/day for one week, with the plan to go to 80mg/day today. I take no other meds, nor have tried other meds.
I TOO HAVE NOTICED ORGASM ISSUES AFTER ONLY ONE WEEK !!
I have a longer, yet much less intense orgasm. Which are ,quite frankly, pretty unremarkable. As another person who posted stated, "they sucks". Thanks for eveyone's openess!! Now I don't wonder if this is all in my head. Now what to do?? I have noticed some benefit from the med, but not drastic.
???????? Anyone stop taking the med but continue to have orgasm/ejaculation problems???????? I'd like to have one more child within the next 2 years and don't like the idea of a pill messing with my "other parts".
I TOO HAVE NOTICED ORGASM ISSUES AFTER ONLY ONE WEEK !!
I have a longer, yet much less intense orgasm. Which are ,quite frankly, pretty unremarkable. As another person who posted stated, "they sucks". Thanks for eveyone's openess!! Now I don't wonder if this is all in my head. Now what to do?? I have noticed some benefit from the med, but not drastic.
???????? Anyone stop taking the med but continue to have orgasm/ejaculation problems???????? I'd like to have one more child within the next 2 years and don't like the idea of a pill messing with my "other parts".
strattercaster
12-01-2003, 06:23 PM
I've noticed that on the very rare occasion when I have missed meds for a weekend (on a trip - forgot to pack them) full libido/orgs return. But starting this med up again can also be a bear - see the threads on brain shocks - like thinking through sludge. Sexual side effects seem to diminish over time. The typical dose for Strattera seems to be 80 mg/day. - not surprised you don't feel much of anything at 40mg. See what happens at 80 mg/day - I have heard anacdotally that at that does most people either get a benefit after about a week's time, or chances are they won't benefit from Strattera. But again - that's only on anecdotal evidence, not clinical trials. Good luck- all I can say is keep a good sense of humor about it (your wife/partner too!)
scatteredBob
12-03-2003, 10:18 AM
Thanks Stratt for getting back to me on this!! I appreciate the feedback !
leebo72
12-06-2003, 07:33 AM
I'm a 25 year-old male, just started Strattera 40 mg yesterday. It definitely does something weird to the male sex organs. First of all sexual desire and ability to get aroused is significantly impared, similar to when I was on SSRI's. When I do get aroused, however, before climax I have a large "premature" leakage of semen that oozes out, then during climax I have an otherwise normal ejaculation but with slight pain in the entire pelvic area. Never experienced this before, even when I was on the SSRI's. Any other adult male on Strattera notice this?
Just had the same thing happen to me yesterday. Premature semen followed by a normal ejaculation. My brain was ready to have sex, my penis did not want to cooperate. Never had that happen before and it scared the heck out of me. I got up early this morning, got on this site, and am relieved to know that I am not alone.
Just had the same thing happen to me yesterday. Premature semen followed by a normal ejaculation. My brain was ready to have sex, my penis did not want to cooperate. Never had that happen before and it scared the heck out of me. I got up early this morning, got on this site, and am relieved to know that I am not alone.
Mr_Crisis
12-06-2003, 07:55 AM
I am a 39yo male, and have been on Strattera 40mg daily for 5 days. My Doc said to start @ 40mg for a few days then increase to 80mg a day. I have experienced full body itch about 1 hour after each dose. It diminishes to just a tingly scalp for a few hours, but remains. I haven't started the 80mg yet. I am experiencing extreme fatigue no matter how much I sleep. It interferes with my job (I work 13 hour shifts). Some urinary, and orgasmic effects, but have read all the posts and I am willing to ride it out. Wondering if the 80mg dose will intensify the itch, and fatigue.
I've never been treated for Adult ADHD, and this is the first med. Anyone had any experience with other meds @ better side effect profile? I have noticed that I am less "excitable" but that may be due to lethargy. As you can see by my nick, I have been chaotic all my life. I am really concerned about the tiredness in relation to my work. :confused: :confused:
I've never been treated for Adult ADHD, and this is the first med. Anyone had any experience with other meds @ better side effect profile? I have noticed that I am less "excitable" but that may be due to lethargy. As you can see by my nick, I have been chaotic all my life. I am really concerned about the tiredness in relation to my work. :confused: :confused:
Palms1
12-06-2003, 11:31 AM
The sleepyness usually lasts one week and then subsides. If it doesn't, ask yor doctor to either let you have Strattera in the evening before bedtime (helps a lot of people dealing with sleepyness) or you can even split the 80 mg dose (the pills are available in several mg increments), and take either 40 mg am, and 40 mg pm or I've heard that people have even better success when taking the larger of the two doses in the am, like in your case 60 mg, and then the smaller one (20 mg) in he am.
strattercaster
12-11-2003, 10:07 PM
Let's pop this thread back up if you don't mind....anyone new or old out there? Any updates on prior experiences? Any remedies? (I've got a Viagra thread going...sheeesh)
mhere
12-14-2003, 03:31 PM
My Dr told me that Strattera can affect the prostate. The older one is, the more likely the noticeable effect. this includes ejaculatory effects as well as problems urinating. My doc gave me a sample of Flomax if I had an extremely difficult time urinating. Might talk to your Doc about it. Be forewarned:If you look up the side effects of Flomax you will see that the Flomax can cause priapsism--a painful erection that might last for 4+ hours which could cause permanent damage. My doc also told me i probably would not need the Flomax unless I was taking at least 80/mg day of Strattera. Again, age seems to be a big factor--the older one is, the more the prostate is affected. But trouble urinating is a common side effect--as i understand it.
Iam *not* a Dr--so please talk to your Dr about these concerns.
Sincerely,
mhere
Iam *not* a Dr--so please talk to your Dr about these concerns.
Sincerely,
mhere
cameron28
12-20-2003, 01:08 PM
I am a 23 year old male. After reading this thread I'm scared to have sex. It sounds like the sexual dysfunction is a high frequency thing with men. Oh well, best of luck to all you new strattera users.
Brian850
01-22-2004, 12:42 AM
Can anybody tellme if the sexual side effects diminish after a while? I know thispost has been up for a while and i wanted to check back to see if the sexual side effects are still as bad as they were when they first started happening...?? I just reached 80mgs and have begun to get all the side-effects mentioned here, unfortunetly. Any info would be appreciated!
hyperev
01-22-2004, 01:19 PM
Can anybody tellme if the sexual side effects diminish after a while? I know thispost has been up for a while and i wanted to check back to see if the sexual side effects are still as bad as they were when they first started happening...?? I just reached 80mgs and have begun to get all the side-effects mentioned here, unfortunetly. Any info would be appreciated!
I hate to say I put up with these side effects for over 2 months and they didn't diminish at all. They actually continually got worse, that's why I stopped taking Strattera. Read my earlier post on 4/28 regarding my incident while running. Let me tell you, that was pain.
I hate to say I put up with these side effects for over 2 months and they didn't diminish at all. They actually continually got worse, that's why I stopped taking Strattera. Read my earlier post on 4/28 regarding my incident while running. Let me tell you, that was pain.
Brian850
01-22-2004, 03:00 PM
I hate to say I put up with these side effects for over 2 months and they didn't diminish at all. They actually continually got worse, that's why I stopped taking Strattera. Read my earlier post on 4/28 regarding my incident while running. Let me tell you, that was pain.
I read that abouthow you were running and felt like you had to go and nothing came out, then went to the hospital right?? I'm guessing the doc had no idea what was going on, my doc didn't even know what stratterawas when i asked about it and after prescribing it to me he warned me of the side-effects by reading a book he had which detailed the correct dosage for thousands of drugs. (this list by the way DID NOT include sexual side effects, i read it myself) I forget the book but the drugs were rganized by disease or problem (i.e.strattera was listed under ADD next to ritilin) I can't beleive this side effect is not taken seriously, and i am MORE THAN WILLING TO BET that during clinical trials, MOST, i bet 80% of the males were not willing to tell the trial doc that he was having sexual side effects, or he was too ashamed to do so, that is why it is said to only occur in 1% or something like that. It obviously dousn't and Elli Lilly needs to address this. Even in the white-book i have on the drug from a Lilly researcher who gave a powerpoint presentation on it (it was a book that the audience could look at to follow the presentation) it said that the low occurance of sexual side effects can be attributed to the low percentage ofmales willing to tell their doctors when they occur.
I read that abouthow you were running and felt like you had to go and nothing came out, then went to the hospital right?? I'm guessing the doc had no idea what was going on, my doc didn't even know what stratterawas when i asked about it and after prescribing it to me he warned me of the side-effects by reading a book he had which detailed the correct dosage for thousands of drugs. (this list by the way DID NOT include sexual side effects, i read it myself) I forget the book but the drugs were rganized by disease or problem (i.e.strattera was listed under ADD next to ritilin) I can't beleive this side effect is not taken seriously, and i am MORE THAN WILLING TO BET that during clinical trials, MOST, i bet 80% of the males were not willing to tell the trial doc that he was having sexual side effects, or he was too ashamed to do so, that is why it is said to only occur in 1% or something like that. It obviously dousn't and Elli Lilly needs to address this. Even in the white-book i have on the drug from a Lilly researcher who gave a powerpoint presentation on it (it was a book that the audience could look at to follow the presentation) it said that the low occurance of sexual side effects can be attributed to the low percentage ofmales willing to tell their doctors when they occur.
hyperev
01-22-2004, 03:12 PM
I read that abouthow you were running and felt like you had to go and nothing came out, then went to the hospital right?? I'm guessing the doc had no idea what was going on, my doc didn't even know what stratterawas when i asked about it and after prescribing it to me he warned me of the side-effects by reading a book he had which detailed the correct dosage for thousands of drugs. (this list by the way DID NOT include sexual side effects, i read it myself) I forget the book but the drugs were rganized by disease or problem (i.e.strattera was listed under ADD next to ritilin) I can't beleive this side effect is not taken seriously, and i am MORE THAN WILLING TO BET that during clinical trials, MOST, i bet 80% of the males were not willing to tell the trial doc that he was having sexual side effects, or he was too ashamed to do so, that is why it is said to only occur in 1% or something like that. It obviously dousn't and Elli Lilly needs to address this. Even in the white-book i have on the drug from a Lilly researcher who gave a powerpoint presentation on it (it was a book that the audience could look at to follow the presentation) it said that the low occurance of sexual side effects can be attributed to the low percentage ofmales willing to tell their doctors when they occur.
You're right, the doctor didn't have any idea what Strattera was about. That's why he gave me a friggin' STD test (ouch!). Now, you don't think Eli Lilly would want to downplay this side effect, do you? They wouldn't do that for more profit, would they? Read about their unethical marketing practices in Florida for Prozac Weekly, ubsurd. Now I'm not going to make this a Eli Lilly bashing post, but I don't trust them.
You're right, the doctor didn't have any idea what Strattera was about. That's why he gave me a friggin' STD test (ouch!). Now, you don't think Eli Lilly would want to downplay this side effect, do you? They wouldn't do that for more profit, would they? Read about their unethical marketing practices in Florida for Prozac Weekly, ubsurd. Now I'm not going to make this a Eli Lilly bashing post, but I don't trust them.
strattercaster
01-22-2004, 07:40 PM
Well, guys, I'm sorry, but it doesn't seem to get much better. I've been on Strattera for about 1 1/2 years - started during the clinical trial. As I've posted before, I get the best results when I am rigidly consistant about taking my 80 mg dose each day (I take the 2 40 mg capsules about 4-5 hours hours apart to minimize the sleepy effect). Inevitably there are days I forget to take my meds - and days when I take one instead of two. The sexual side effects have been there all along - particularly difficulty getting an erection and premature dribbling of semen. Not pleasant, though there have been periods of time when things seem to be OK, looking back those symptoms seem to always re-appear.
I got over my self-consciousness to finally ask a physican for a prescription for Viagra, but have not had great success there either. Viagra helps maintain an erection once blood is in the penis, it does not provide an erection if the strattera is causing the problems.
I too, was one of those clinical guys who minimzed - or denied - the sexual side effects of strattera during the trail. It's a hard thing to acknowledge and sicuss (no pun intended) and the trial wasn't therapy - there was no place for me to go with it once I would have opened that door. I too hope Lilly reps read about this.
Has anyone else out there tried any of the other ED medications?
Oh well - the benefits of strattera are great for me. I've got to be more rigorous about maintaining my schedule. Good luck guys. (It helps a lot to have a supportive partner!)
I got over my self-consciousness to finally ask a physican for a prescription for Viagra, but have not had great success there either. Viagra helps maintain an erection once blood is in the penis, it does not provide an erection if the strattera is causing the problems.
I too, was one of those clinical guys who minimzed - or denied - the sexual side effects of strattera during the trail. It's a hard thing to acknowledge and sicuss (no pun intended) and the trial wasn't therapy - there was no place for me to go with it once I would have opened that door. I too hope Lilly reps read about this.
Has anyone else out there tried any of the other ED medications?
Oh well - the benefits of strattera are great for me. I've got to be more rigorous about maintaining my schedule. Good luck guys. (It helps a lot to have a supportive partner!)
Brian850
01-24-2004, 12:42 PM
Well, guys, I'm sorry, but it doesn't seem to get much better. I've been on Strattera for about 1 1/2 years - started during the clinical trial. As I've posted before, I get the best results when I am rigidly consistant about taking my 80 mg dose each day (I take the 2 40 mg capsules about 4-5 hours hours apart to minimize the sleepy effect). Inevitably there are days I forget to take my meds - and days when I take one instead of two. The sexual side effects have been there all along - particularly difficulty getting an erection and premature dribbling of semen. Not pleasant, though there have been periods of time when things seem to be OK, looking back those symptoms seem to always re-appear.
I got over my self-consciousness to finally ask a physican for a prescription for Viagra, but have not had great success there either. Viagra helps maintain an erection once blood is in the penis, it does not provide an erection if the strattera is causing the problems.
I too, was one of those clinical guys who minimzed - or denied - the sexual side effects of strattera during the trail. It's a hard thing to acknowledge and sicuss (no pun intended) and the trial wasn't therapy - there was no place for me to go with it once I would have opened that door. I too hope Lilly reps read about this.
Has anyone else out there tried any of the other ED medications?
Oh well - the benefits of strattera are great for me. I've got to be more rigorous about maintaining my schedule. Good luck guys. (It helps a lot to have a supportive partner!)
I went yesterday in desperation and bought "men's Health" Yohimbe HCL from GNC, i have taken it before for working out and always noticed a little too "interested" in the opposite sex when i took it. I read and it helps with bloodflow to those organs, i tried it and it actually did help quite a bit compared to the days before with maintaining a hard erection, i was pleasently suprised. It may have only been a day when strattera wasn't effecting me but i'd rather say i found something to help haha ;-)
I got over my self-consciousness to finally ask a physican for a prescription for Viagra, but have not had great success there either. Viagra helps maintain an erection once blood is in the penis, it does not provide an erection if the strattera is causing the problems.
I too, was one of those clinical guys who minimzed - or denied - the sexual side effects of strattera during the trail. It's a hard thing to acknowledge and sicuss (no pun intended) and the trial wasn't therapy - there was no place for me to go with it once I would have opened that door. I too hope Lilly reps read about this.
Has anyone else out there tried any of the other ED medications?
Oh well - the benefits of strattera are great for me. I've got to be more rigorous about maintaining my schedule. Good luck guys. (It helps a lot to have a supportive partner!)
I went yesterday in desperation and bought "men's Health" Yohimbe HCL from GNC, i have taken it before for working out and always noticed a little too "interested" in the opposite sex when i took it. I read and it helps with bloodflow to those organs, i tried it and it actually did help quite a bit compared to the days before with maintaining a hard erection, i was pleasently suprised. It may have only been a day when strattera wasn't effecting me but i'd rather say i found something to help haha ;-)
radink
02-03-2004, 06:09 PM
I'm 31 and have been on Strattera for a month now (50mg). At 1st I had some problems getting an erection and my drive was almost nil. Well after being on it for a while. Things have reversed. I have a strong sex drive and can usually maintain a good erection. Problem is, sex feels too good. It's seems to be way extra sensitive and causes me to ejaculate alot sooner than usual. I still sometimes have the old problems of the unforceful ejaculation and the pain afterwards. Anyone else having this sensitivity problem?
strattercaster
02-03-2004, 07:43 PM
Good News I guess - finally got a 'scrip for Viagra. At first was disappointment for full pill (100 mg) but searching Health Boards for the Viagra Board, I found many posts suggeseting a cut back to 50mg. Much better response. So for those guys experiencing these nasty side effects - allow the drug (and your body) a reasonable time to level out, and try one of the ED drugs like Viagra. May start a new thread on this ... anyone else out there using it with Strattera?
hyperev
02-03-2004, 10:05 PM
Good News I guess - finally got a 'scrip for Viagra. At first was disappointment for full pill (100 mg) but searching Health Boards for the Viagra Board, I found many posts suggeseting a cut back to 50mg. Much better response. So for those guys experiencing these nasty side effects - allow the drug (and your body) a reasonable time to level out, and try one of the ED drugs like Viagra. May start a new thread on this ... anyone else out there using it with Strattera?
Personally, I think it's crazy to start mixing meds. If you want to be a "privateer" guinea pig for Eli Lilly, be my guest. My doctor wanted to do the same for me, so he gave me a script for Viagra. I decided to give up the med that started the problem in the first place. Too many doctors are prescription happy. You know, there are skills that can be aquired to overcome some of the obsticals ADD presents. I've been med free for a year and feeling great. I don't drink, smoke or have any other unhealthy vices either. It just took time for me to come to terms with ADD, and how to get around it. You know what, I think I'd be bored not having it.
Personally, I think it's crazy to start mixing meds. If you want to be a "privateer" guinea pig for Eli Lilly, be my guest. My doctor wanted to do the same for me, so he gave me a script for Viagra. I decided to give up the med that started the problem in the first place. Too many doctors are prescription happy. You know, there are skills that can be aquired to overcome some of the obsticals ADD presents. I've been med free for a year and feeling great. I don't drink, smoke or have any other unhealthy vices either. It just took time for me to come to terms with ADD, and how to get around it. You know what, I think I'd be bored not having it.
radink
02-04-2004, 08:53 AM
Personally, I think it's crazy to start mixing meds. If you want to be a "privateer" guinea pig for Eli Lilly, be my guest. My doctor wanted to do the same for me, so he gave me a script for Viagra. I decided to give up the med that started the problem in the first place. Too many doctors are prescription happy. You know, there are skills that can be aquired to overcome some of the obsticals ADD presents. I've been med free for a year and feeling great. I don't drink, smoke or have any other unhealthy vices either. It just took time for me to come to terms with ADD, and how to get around it. You know what, I think I'd be bored not having it.
I would like to hear more about how you got around the ADD.
I would like to hear more about how you got around the ADD.
notmyplace
02-08-2004, 02:01 AM
This is my first post on this board. I'm very very glad I found it. I'm a 35 year old male and on no other medication at this time. I was on Zoloft about six years ago but all I could achieve was sleep. So I stopped taking it.
I have always had ADD but lived with it. I suppose I have a mild to medium case of it. I used to self medicate with alcohol but that was not a good way to go about it.
About a week ago I talked to my Doctor ( he is the best doctor I've ever had ) about my ADD. He told me that I was in luck because of this new medication on the market, Strattera. Made it sound great. Gave me the starter pack and off I went. Before I started taking it I read alittle on the internet about it and was worried about sexual side effects. I went back and asked him about the sexual side effects and he said he had never taken anyone off Strattera for sexual side effects ( kind of avoided the question, I think he was aware of it ). I was like cool this will be great. A couple people on the Internet having problems, but it won't affect me. I did not really get into what the side effects would be but they mimic this board.
Was I ever wrong. I took my 1st 25 mg pill and 10 minuites later I felt a rush, kind of like I do with a decongestant and then maybe 30 minuites after that my penis felt very small ( I don't like that feeling and several of you have mentioned it ) Then I went through the bit about peeing forever and not much coming out and feeling like you were about to bust and nothing coming out. Now I don't think anything in the world could give me an erection. Six hours later I can pee normally, my penis feels like really really wierd and my mouth is dry, and I think my blood pressure is higher than normal. I feel shakey anyway. Perhaps I'm having an allergic reation to the medicine.
I'll never take it agian. This stuff is evil to the core. :mad:
If it helps you great. If you're reading this to find out about the side effects be warned.
I have always had ADD but lived with it. I suppose I have a mild to medium case of it. I used to self medicate with alcohol but that was not a good way to go about it.
About a week ago I talked to my Doctor ( he is the best doctor I've ever had ) about my ADD. He told me that I was in luck because of this new medication on the market, Strattera. Made it sound great. Gave me the starter pack and off I went. Before I started taking it I read alittle on the internet about it and was worried about sexual side effects. I went back and asked him about the sexual side effects and he said he had never taken anyone off Strattera for sexual side effects ( kind of avoided the question, I think he was aware of it ). I was like cool this will be great. A couple people on the Internet having problems, but it won't affect me. I did not really get into what the side effects would be but they mimic this board.
Was I ever wrong. I took my 1st 25 mg pill and 10 minuites later I felt a rush, kind of like I do with a decongestant and then maybe 30 minuites after that my penis felt very small ( I don't like that feeling and several of you have mentioned it ) Then I went through the bit about peeing forever and not much coming out and feeling like you were about to bust and nothing coming out. Now I don't think anything in the world could give me an erection. Six hours later I can pee normally, my penis feels like really really wierd and my mouth is dry, and I think my blood pressure is higher than normal. I feel shakey anyway. Perhaps I'm having an allergic reation to the medicine.
I'll never take it agian. This stuff is evil to the core. :mad:
If it helps you great. If you're reading this to find out about the side effects be warned.
phil-dirt
02-14-2004, 11:51 PM
Board posting greenhorn, so bear with me. I am 29 with what Dr. Amen calls Ring Of Fire ADHD. Married to an ADD woman who is on Adderall XR and Wellbutrin. I started Strattera after the first visit to the Noggin Doc back in first part of Dec. Well here's my problems: I am much more sensitive to stimulation, and feel a huge rush towards climax but when it happens it's more like lighting a match than the normal stick of dynamite. Almost like why did I bother? Even taking measures to cut back sensetivity, talk about a minute man. Just about literally. And as far as what comes out, a drop, sometimes if even that. I can live with, or compensate for most all of the issues strattera is causing, except the lack of intensity. Now I know what my wife means when she says that sometimes sex is just OK. It feels good to take part but not getting much from it.
liquidchakra
02-16-2004, 12:21 PM
I've heard that boosting dopamine might counteract some of the sexual effects, but without taking a prescription, what else would do this? I've heard that both SAMe and l-tyrosine boost dopamine, but are there any other supplements that might help?
strattercaster
02-21-2004, 01:14 PM
While my previous posts have dealt with potential male side effects related tos sex, I urge all men to take a look at my recent postings on strattera's potential effect on /urinationblood pressure - see my thread on this. High blood pressure is potentially a much more serious side effect than erectile dysfunction.
LA_Galaxy_Fan
03-04-2004, 04:44 PM
I just started taking Strattera 25mg this Monday. It's day 3. I am going to bust through the 2 months and 'deal' with all the side effects. If the sexual side effects subside, great. I'll be on it for a long time. If they don't, I'll drop it like my ex-girlfriend dropped me for being ADD.
fuzzybaffy
03-28-2004, 04:34 PM
I'm on a dosage of 80 mg per day for Strattera, and it seems that I'm experiencing sexual side effects. I experience low output (if you know what I mean), and just overall less enjoyment.
Also, it seems that the Strattera isn't very effective when it comes to my attention deficit symptoms, such as focussing during lectures, daydreaming, my leg-shaking. It has significantly improved, however, my social anxiety.
With that in mind, do you think I have a valid reason for wanting to switch over to another medication like perhaps Adderall? I'd like to know what your opinions are on this.
Also, it seems that the Strattera isn't very effective when it comes to my attention deficit symptoms, such as focussing during lectures, daydreaming, my leg-shaking. It has significantly improved, however, my social anxiety.
With that in mind, do you think I have a valid reason for wanting to switch over to another medication like perhaps Adderall? I'd like to know what your opinions are on this.
index.html
04-01-2004, 10:47 AM
Bumping up for Mason...
memehegan
07-14-2004, 08:43 AM
So my 9 year old nephew was just admitted in the crisis unit- he began Straterra in march is up to 80 mgs aday a stopped concerta a week ago- apparrently hes been humping every thing in site and now tried to hump his 6 year old sister and the drug is not helping with the impulse control at all! My ssiter and I use the same doc- he wanted to put my son (13) on it but I read way to many posts here about complications and said no way! What a nightmare- people have got to start reporting these side effects before they shove this drug on too many more children with undeveloped sex organs- god knows what it is doing to them! Thank you for sharing your story- these accounts might be the hope their family has that this wont happen again if he goes back on the ritilin! -meme
sheezle
07-15-2004, 06:23 AM
This is just nuts..Doctors amaze me more and more everyday. You are on depression medicine and a.d.d. medicine..hello!!! ok this is going to be a hard one to explain will do my best...People with a.d.d. get depressed usually because they let the negative traits of a.d.d. hold them back from expressing the positive ones..depression comes from the frustration of knowing we could and should be doing so much more then we are..we see people succeed with not even half the intelligence and talent then we have..the depression goes away when we understand a.d.d. and treat it ( however way works) ...one causes the other fix one and you fix the other. FIND A NEW DOCTOR!!!!
memehegan
07-15-2004, 11:13 PM
She told me today he is 160 miles away in a hospital just outside the NYC burrows! We live in upstate NY and the doc we use is the only one around for over 60 miles in any direction that can medicate children , before the county hired him we had to drive over an hour one way to get to the nearest psychiatrist for children. Something in my nephews brain doesnt quite work right- smart guy but very very rigid. Screams and tempertantrums for hours daily- even before the straterra. Once he learns something one way- like when his dad told him in refrence to dollar bills that the presidents were dead he is unable to unlearn it or change his understanding. He arruged insesently with me that allllll the presidents are dead- even when I showed him yesterdays pic in the newspaper of Bush he said well he died last night. All the presidents are dead. -see what I mean? I told my sister today that when its all said and done I wont be surprised if he is diagnosised with aspbergers like my son- its the rigidity that makes me suspicous combined with the emotional delay. The admitted him because he lies obssesively and seemingly uncontrollably- did everything in his power to convince every one that his 6 year old sister- half his age and size forced him to touch her- even though she is scared of him. It is so sad- straterra was obviously the last drug this child should ever have been on. -meme
Rob81
09-02-2004, 11:52 PM
I'm 22 years old and I started taking Strattera 4 days ago. (40mg). From day one I noticed several side effects. For several hours after taking my first dose I became extremely tired with a mild headache and a general clouded mind. It was so bad I couldn't do anything but lay down until the feeling passed. Later that night while having sex I noticed some of the "sexual side effects" listed in the pamphlet. I noticed a burning pain while ejaculating coupled with a less intense orgasm. I mean less intense to the point that I hardly noticed I was having an orgasm.
I've also had urinary problems, but different than others have posted. I feel the need to urinate every 20 minutes or so, and I do. I have not had the problem of being unable to urinate, but then again due to the dry mouth issue I've been drinking Gatorade non-stop all week.
I've noticed a lot of negatives and no positives to the use of this drug. I haven't had any ADD symptoms because I've been too tired and lethargic to have much thought process or action at all. It seems almost as if the world around me is moving much faster than I'm used to seeing. If this is the way the drug "cures" the symptoms of ADD then it is DEFINATELY not for me and I would not suggest anyone take this.
The side effects - fatigue, constant headache, appetite loss, and especially the sexual side effects are too much to deal with. And if my choice is no ADD with Strattera while keeping these terrible effects or life with ADD, then I choose ADD.
I'll be contacting both my doctor and Lilly tomorrow to inform them of this. Hopefully I can find something else without the side effects to help me out.
I've also had urinary problems, but different than others have posted. I feel the need to urinate every 20 minutes or so, and I do. I have not had the problem of being unable to urinate, but then again due to the dry mouth issue I've been drinking Gatorade non-stop all week.
I've noticed a lot of negatives and no positives to the use of this drug. I haven't had any ADD symptoms because I've been too tired and lethargic to have much thought process or action at all. It seems almost as if the world around me is moving much faster than I'm used to seeing. If this is the way the drug "cures" the symptoms of ADD then it is DEFINATELY not for me and I would not suggest anyone take this.
The side effects - fatigue, constant headache, appetite loss, and especially the sexual side effects are too much to deal with. And if my choice is no ADD with Strattera while keeping these terrible effects or life with ADD, then I choose ADD.
I'll be contacting both my doctor and Lilly tomorrow to inform them of this. Hopefully I can find something else without the side effects to help me out.
CursedforLife
11-07-2004, 07:09 PM
good thread, i am very conflicted at this point. dont want long lasting effects at any cost.
Ktownguy
11-20-2004, 07:30 PM
[FONT=Trebuchet MS]OK, so it's NOT just me. I'm glad I came across this thread. I am a 38 y/o gay male, just started taking Strattera 9 days ago. Am also on 20 mgs. Prozac (have been for just over a month) and 1 mg. Klonopin (since late August). I take both of these at night to get to sleep and to treat depression/anxiety.
As for the Strattera, I take it during the day and was told to start first dose at 25 mgs., next three days at 40 mgs. then up to 80 mgs. thereafter. Well, the first thing I noticed was the cotton mouth. The next and more unpleasant thing I noticed is the problem with urination and sexual side effects. I was at work on day 4 (or was it 5?) of the Strattera and went to the bathroom. I noticed that - like others on this thread have mentioned - my urination wasn't that strong, came in short streams, and also at one point, had this seminal consistency to it. I went back to my desk and started to feel the sensation that I hadn't quite finished urinating. That's when it happened: I actually had leaked a bit of a leak! Minimal though it was, good think I had dark pants on! I was embarrassed, to say the least, and naturally uncomfortable the rest of the day. I almost felt like asking to go home, but was too embarrassed to do so! I mean, imagine how I'd explain it - not to mention I've had enough problems at work due to mental health issues. I have started taking the Strattera after talking with my psychiatrist (who back a few months ago addressed the topic of ADD, but felt the need to get the anxiety/depression issues under control first) and told her of my poor performance at work - not checking my work, overlooking the obvious, making mistakes with routine work, general lack of concentration/focus, etc. I mean, I've always had these issues to a degree on the job, but they seem worse now more than ever before, and it's come to the point at work where I am going under mid-year review one month before anyone else is!!!! Either I worked with very understanding people in the past or members of the team in my current position are perfectionistic nazis! My employer knows about my mental health issues, but seemingly doesn't care as I had come back from a 3-week leave with no restrictions and, thus, feels like she shouldn't treat me any differently (though she witnessed first-hand 3 separate anxiety attacks/flip-outs and even drove me to the hospital on the last one).
I also feel like my sexual drive has been reduced to nothing - no interest even in self-stimulation!!! Needless to say, I don't like this at all and am thinking as I've just started taking the drug that I should just stop it immediately. I mean, I've been depressed/anxious and had no problems with sexual activity/arousal, but now that I've started on the Strattera, libido is non-existent. I'm wondering if "Jr. will ever grow up" again, you know? Help Mr. Wizard, my penis is Tutor Turtle!
The one thing I did seem to notice was a better sense of concentration/self-review of work - don't know if it's the Strattera or the threat of losing my job - perhaps both! Anyone ever just stop taking Strattera cold after a short time of taking it? I've also tried Adderall XR, but felt like my heart was going to explode when I took it. I don't know if it's also the combination with the Prozac, but was on Wellbutrin XL prior to the Prozac - didn't help with the depression - hell, I'm not even sure the Prozac is.
Wow, I'm babbling!
Anyway, now I know it's not only I who have experienced this problem with this obvious side-effect of Strattera - I think I'd rather be a potentially-unemployed nutcase than to have to live without a sexual drive!
Thanks for putting up with me!
As for the Strattera, I take it during the day and was told to start first dose at 25 mgs., next three days at 40 mgs. then up to 80 mgs. thereafter. Well, the first thing I noticed was the cotton mouth. The next and more unpleasant thing I noticed is the problem with urination and sexual side effects. I was at work on day 4 (or was it 5?) of the Strattera and went to the bathroom. I noticed that - like others on this thread have mentioned - my urination wasn't that strong, came in short streams, and also at one point, had this seminal consistency to it. I went back to my desk and started to feel the sensation that I hadn't quite finished urinating. That's when it happened: I actually had leaked a bit of a leak! Minimal though it was, good think I had dark pants on! I was embarrassed, to say the least, and naturally uncomfortable the rest of the day. I almost felt like asking to go home, but was too embarrassed to do so! I mean, imagine how I'd explain it - not to mention I've had enough problems at work due to mental health issues. I have started taking the Strattera after talking with my psychiatrist (who back a few months ago addressed the topic of ADD, but felt the need to get the anxiety/depression issues under control first) and told her of my poor performance at work - not checking my work, overlooking the obvious, making mistakes with routine work, general lack of concentration/focus, etc. I mean, I've always had these issues to a degree on the job, but they seem worse now more than ever before, and it's come to the point at work where I am going under mid-year review one month before anyone else is!!!! Either I worked with very understanding people in the past or members of the team in my current position are perfectionistic nazis! My employer knows about my mental health issues, but seemingly doesn't care as I had come back from a 3-week leave with no restrictions and, thus, feels like she shouldn't treat me any differently (though she witnessed first-hand 3 separate anxiety attacks/flip-outs and even drove me to the hospital on the last one).
I also feel like my sexual drive has been reduced to nothing - no interest even in self-stimulation!!! Needless to say, I don't like this at all and am thinking as I've just started taking the drug that I should just stop it immediately. I mean, I've been depressed/anxious and had no problems with sexual activity/arousal, but now that I've started on the Strattera, libido is non-existent. I'm wondering if "Jr. will ever grow up" again, you know? Help Mr. Wizard, my penis is Tutor Turtle!
The one thing I did seem to notice was a better sense of concentration/self-review of work - don't know if it's the Strattera or the threat of losing my job - perhaps both! Anyone ever just stop taking Strattera cold after a short time of taking it? I've also tried Adderall XR, but felt like my heart was going to explode when I took it. I don't know if it's also the combination with the Prozac, but was on Wellbutrin XL prior to the Prozac - didn't help with the depression - hell, I'm not even sure the Prozac is.
Wow, I'm babbling!
Anyway, now I know it's not only I who have experienced this problem with this obvious side-effect of Strattera - I think I'd rather be a potentially-unemployed nutcase than to have to live without a sexual drive!
Thanks for putting up with me!
dougmg
05-16-2005, 10:41 AM
I'm a 46 yo male. I have just begun Strattera. From day one I have had the discharge upon finishing up urinating about 4 hours after taking the pill. Then some pain/presure in my prostate area. How do I find out about possiblle long term side effects?
andie2005
06-14-2005, 12:38 PM
My boyfriend takes Strattera and has for a few months. After we had sex I had an irritation. Thinking I had an infection for whatever reason I spoke with my doctor. Nothing was found but the irritation continues. When I mentioned this to my boyfriend he admitted to having a burning sensation during sex. I wanted to know if any of your partners have experienced pain or itching after sex.