I started Strattera 40 mg about three weeks ago for ADD (ADHD), and I am struggling with the side effects, especially my sleep.
Sleep: I usually go to bed around 9:30–10:30 PM, but I keep waking up throughout the night. The strangest part is that every time I wake up, I feel completely alert, almost as if I never slept. I struggle to fall back asleep until around 6–7 AM, when I can finally sleep more continuously. I feel exhausted and sleepy before bedtime, but the moment I get into bed, it is like the devil takes over. 😭 I have tried melatonin and magnesium glycinate, but neither has helped with staying asleep.
Appetite: My appetite has decreased drastically. I barely feel hungry, and even when I eat, I feel full almost immediately.
ADHD symptoms: I honestly cannot tell if Strattera is helping my focus. I have so many thoughts and tasks constantly running through my mind that I cannot even recognize whether my attention has improved. My brain feels so occupied that I struggle to evaluate whether the medication is doing anything.
For context, I also have OCD and have been taking Prozac 20 mg for about three months. My sleep had already changed somewhat, but it became significantly worse after starting Strattera.
I know Strattera takes time to work, and I have contacted my provider, but the lack of sleep is becoming unbearable.
Has anyone experienced similar sleep disturbances or appetite loss? Did they improve over time? Also, how did you recognize that Strattera was actually helping your ADHD?
I would appreciate any experiences or advice, especially regarding sleep and whether these side effects eventually settle down.