ATONCY is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) indicated for the treatment of ADHD in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. ( 1)
|
Age and Body Weight |
Starting Dosage |
Target Dosage 1 |
Maximum Total Daily Dose 1 |
|
Pediatrics who weigh less than 70 kg |
0.5 mg/kg/day |
1.2 mg/kg/day |
1.4 mg/kg/day or 100 mg/day (whichever is less) |
|
Pediatrics who weigh 70 kg or more and adults |
40 mg/day |
80 mg/day |
100 mg/day |
|
1Administer either as once daily dosage in the morning or as evenly divided twice daily dosage in the morning and late afternoon/early evening |
|||
Contraindicated in patients ( 4):
Most common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the incidence of placebo patients)
Patients should be instructed to use caution when driving a car or operating hazardous machinery (because of somnolence) until they are reasonably certain that their performance is not affected by ATONCY (
6.1).
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC at 1-866-982-5438 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and Medication Guide.
Revised: 3/2026
All pediatric patients 6 years of age or older treated with ATONCY should be monitored and observed closely for suicidal thoughts and behaviors, clinical worsening, or unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial months of therapy or at times of dosage changes. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the health care provider. Consider stopping ATONCY in patients who experience emergent suicidal thoughts and behavior [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] .
Atomoxetine increased the risk of suicidal ideation in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in short-term studies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] .
ATONCY is indicated for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adult and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. ATONCY is indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program for ADHD that may include other measures (psychological, educational, social) for patients with ADHD.
Prior to initiating treatment with ATONCY:
ATONCY may be taken with or without food. Instruct patients to only use the supplied syringe and bottle adapter to measure and take ATONCY [see Instructions for Use] .
Table 1 includes the recommended dosage of ATONCY in adult patients and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older for treatment of ADHD.
Table 1: Recommended Dosage of ATONCY for the Treatment of ADHD
|
Age and Body Weight |
Starting Dosage |
Titration Interval |
Target Dosage |
Maximum Dosage |
|
Pediatric patients who weigh less than 70 kg |
0.5 mg/kg/day |
Minimum of 3 days |
1.2 mg/kg/day a,b |
1.4 mg/kg/day or 100 mg/day, whichever is less a |
|
Pediatric patients who weigh 70 kg or more and adult patients |
40 mg/day |
Minimum of 3 days |
80 mg/day a |
100 mg/day a,c |
|
aAdministered either as a single daily dose in the morning or as evenly divided doses in the morning and late afternoon/early evening.
|
||||
The health care provider who elects to use ATONCY for extended periods should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of ATONCY for the individual patient.
For patients 6 years of age or older with:
Table 2 includes the recommended ATONCY dosage in adult patients and pediatric patients aged 6 years of age or older with concomitant use of a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor or in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers [see Drug Interactions (7)and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)] . The recommended titration interval in these patients is every four weeks (if ADHD symptoms fail to improve and the initial dosage is well tolerated).
For other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate), follow the recommended dosage, including the recommended titration interval (minimum of 3 days), as outlined in Table 1 [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)] .
Table 2: Recommended Dosage of ATONCY with Concomitant Use of a Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitor or in CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers
|
Age and Body Weight |
Starting Dosage |
Titration Interval a |
Target Dosage d |
|
Pediatric patients who weigh less than 70 kg |
0.5 mg/kg/day |
4 weeks |
1.2 mg/kg/day b,c |
|
Pediatric patients who weigh 70 kg or more and adult patients |
40 mg/day |
4 weeks |
80 mg/day b |
|
aTitrate if ADHD symptoms fail to improve and the initial dosage is well tolerated.
|
|||
At least 14 days must elapse between discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant and initiation of ATONCY. In addition, at least 14 days must elapse after stopping ATONCY before starting an MAOI antidepressant.
If the ATONCY dose is missed, take the dose as soon as possible, but do not take more than the prescribed total daily amount of ATONCY in any 24-hour period.
When discontinuing atomoxetine, no taper is needed [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.3)] .
ATONCY is contraindicated in patients:
Atomoxetine increased the risk of suicidal ideation in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD in pooled placebo-controlled short-term studies (6 to 18 weeks). In 12 studies (11 studies in patients with ADHD and 1 in another clinical study ) with over 2,200 pediatric patients, the mean incidence of suicidal ideation in pediatric patients treated with another atomoxetine product was 0.4% (5/1357) (including one patient with a suicide attempt) compared to 0% (0/851) in placebo-treated pediatric patients. No suicides occurred in these studies. All the suicidal ideations occurred in pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age, and all occurred during the first month of treatment with the other atomoxetine product. It is unknown whether the risk of suicidal ideation in pediatric patients extends to longer-term use. A similar analysis in adult patients treated with atomoxetine for ADHD did not reveal an increased risk of suicidal ideation or behavior.
The following psychiatric symptoms have been reported with the use of atomoxetine: anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania and mania. Although a causal link between the emergence of such symptoms and the emergence of suicidal impulses has not been established, there is a concern that such symptoms may represent precursors to emerging suicidality.
ATONCY should be discontinued and not restarted in patients with jaundice or laboratory evidence of liver injury. Liver enzyme and function tests should be obtained upon the first symptom or sign of liver dysfunction (e.g., pruritus, dark urine, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, or unexplained “flu like” symptoms).
Postmarketing reports indicate that atomoxetine can cause severe liver injury.
Although no evidence of liver injury was detected in clinical trials of about 6,000 patients, there have been rare cases of clinically significant liver injury that were considered probably or possibly related to atomoxetine use during postmarketing use.
Risk Management Recommendations for Serious Cardiovascular Reactions
Prior to ATONCY treatment, adults or pediatric patients 6 years of age or older should have a careful history (including assessment for a family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia) and physical exam to assess for the presence of cardiovascular disease and should receive further cardiac evaluation if findings suggest such disease (e.g., electrocardiogram, echocardiogram).
Patients who develop symptoms such as exertional chest pain, unexplained syncope, or other symptoms suggestive of cardiac disease during atomoxetine treatment should stop ATONCY and undergo a prompt cardiac evaluation.
Sudden Death and Pre-existing Structural Cardiac Abnormalities or Other Serious Heart Problems
Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:Sudden death has been reported in association with atomoxetine treatment at the recommended dosage in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious heart problems.
Adults:Sudden deaths, stroke, and myocardial infarction have been reported in atomoxetine-treated adults at the recommended ADHD dosage. Although the role of atomoxetine in these adult cases is also unknown, adults have a greater likelihood than pediatric patients of having serious structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac problems.
ATONCY is contraindicated in patients with severe cardiac or vascular disorders whose condition would be expected to deteriorate if they had a clinically important increase in blood pressure or heart rate. ATONCY should be used with caution in any condition that may predispose patients to hypotension, or conditions associated with abrupt heart rate or blood pressure changes. ATONCY should be used with caution in patients whose underlying medical conditions could be worsened by increases in blood pressure or heart rate such as certain patients with hypertension, tachycardia, or cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Heart rate and blood pressure should be measured at baseline, following ATONCY dosage increases, and periodically while on therapy to detect possible clinically importantn increases in heart rate and blood pressure.
In the pediatric and adult patients in short-term, placebo-controlled clinical studies of ADHD, there were a greater proportion of patients treated with another atomoxetine product, compared to placebo-treated patients, who had an increase in: diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 15 mm Hg, systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 20 mm Hg, and heart rate ≥ 20 bpm [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] .
Increase in Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
Increase in Blood Pressure and Heart Rate in CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers
If psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing ATONCY.
Psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking), manic symptoms (e.g., mania) in patients without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania can be caused by ATONCY at the recommended dosage.
Before initiating treatment with ATONCY, patients should be adequately screened for risk factors for bipolar disorder such as a personal or family history of mania and depression.
Patients with bipolar disorder or risk factors for bipolar disorder may be at increased risk of developing mania or mixed episodes during treatment with ATONCY. It may not be possible to determine whether a manic or mixed episode that appears during treatment with ATONCY is due to an adverse reaction to ATONCY or a patient’s underlying bipolar disorder.
Patients beginning treatment with ATONCY should be monitored for the appearance or worsening of aggressive behavior or hostility.
There is evidence that ATONCY may cause the emergence or worsening of aggressive behavior or hostility. ADHD and other mental illnesses can be associated with irritability, which can make it difficult to determine if ATONCY or the underlying psychiatric condition is causing the emergence or worsening of aggressive behavior or hostility in specific patients. If such symptoms occur during treatment, consider a possible causal role of ATONCY.
ATONCY is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity reaction to ATONCY or other components of ATONCY.
Although uncommon, hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, angioneurotic edema, urticaria, and rash, have been reported in atomoxetine-treated patients.
A complaint of urinary retention or urinary hesitancy should be considered potentially related to ATONCY.
In adult ADHD controlled studies, the incidence of urinary retention (1.7% (9/540)) and urinary hesitation (5.6% (30/540)) were increased among patients treated with another atomoxetine product compared with placebo-treated patients (0% (0/402); 0.5% (2/402), respectively). Two adult patients treated with another atomoxetine product and no placebo-treated patients discontinued from controlled clinical studies because of urinary retention.
Prompt medical attention is required in the event of suspected priapism in ATONCY-treated patients.
Rare postmarketing cases of priapism, defined as painful and nonpainful penile erection lasting more than 4 hours, have been reported for pediatric and adult patients treated with atomoxetine. The erections resolved in cases in which follow-up information was available, some following discontinuation of atomoxetine.
Closely monitor growth (e.g., weight, height) in pediatric patients during ATONCY treatment.
Weight and Height in Long-Term Open-Label Studies in Pediatric Patients
Data on the long-term effects of another atomoxetine product on growth in pediatric patients from open-label studies in which weight and height changes were compared to normative pediatric population data are presented below. In general, the weight and height gain of atomoxetine-treated pediatric patients treated with another atomoxetine product lagged behind that predicted by normative population data for about the first 9-12 months of treatment, and subsequently (see Figure 1 below):
Figure 1: Mean Weight and Height Percentiles Over Time for Atomoxetine-Treated Pediatric Patients in Comparison to Normative Pediatric Population Values
After three years of treatment with another atomoxetine product in the long-term open-label studies, patients who were:
CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) treated with another atomoxetine product for at least two years gained weight and height. However, in:
In the long-term open-label studies, the growth pattern was generally similar regardless of pubertal status at the time treatment initiation with another atomoxetine product.
Weight and Height in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Studies in Pediatric Patients
In short-term, placebo-controlled studies (up to 9 weeks), patients treated with another atomoxetine product lost an average of 0.4 kg in weight and gained an average of 0.9 cm in height, compared to a gain of 1.5 kg in weight and 1.1 cm in height in the placebo-treated patients.
In a fixed-dose controlled trial, 1.3%, 7.1%, 19.3%, and 29.1% of patients in the placebo, 0.5, 1.2, and 1.8 mg/kg/day other atomoxetine product groups, respectively, lost at least 3.5% of their body weight.
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The safety of ATONCY has been established from adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules (also referred to as another atomoxetine product) in patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD Clinical Studies (14)] . Below is a display of the adverse reactions of [atomoxetine capsules in these adequate and well-controlled studies.
Atomoxetine capsules were administered to 5,382 pediatric patients 6 years of age and older in clinical ADHD studies (Studies 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] and 1,007 adults in clinical ADHD studies (Studies 6 and 7) [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] . In the ADHD clinical trials, 2,529 pediatric patients were treated for over 6 months, which included 1,625 pediatric patients who were treated for longer than 1 year.
Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Trials of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older with ADHD
Discontinuation of Treatment Due to Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:In the acute placebo-controlled studies of pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD, 3% (48/1,613) of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients and 1.4% (13/945) of placebo-treated pediatric patients discontinued due to an adverse reaction. Among atomoxetine capsules treated patients, irritability (0.3%, N=5); somnolence (0.3%, N=5); aggression (0.2%, N=4); nausea (0.2%, N=4); vomiting (0.2%, N=4); abdominal pain (0.2%, N=4); constipation (0.1%, N=2); fatigue (0.1%, N=2); feeling abnormal (0.1%, N=2); and headache (0.1%, N=2) were the reasons for discontinuation reported by more than one patient.
For all studies, (including open-label and long-term studies), 6% of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients who were other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) and 11% of those who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers discontinued due to an adverse reaction.
Common Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:
Common adverse reactions (incidence of 2% or greater in atomoxetine capsules-treated patients and with a higher incidence in atomoxetine capsules-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients) in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD are listed in Table 3. The most commonly observed adverse reactions in atomoxetine capsules-treated patients (incidence of ≥5% and ≥twice the incidence in placebo-treated patients), for either twice daily or once daily dosing were: nausea, vomiting, fatigue, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and somnolence (see Tables 3 and 4).
Table 3: Common Adverse Reactions ain Acute Studies (up to 18 weeks) in Pediatric Patients 6 Years and Older with ADHD
|
Atomoxetine Capsules
|
Placebo
|
|
|
Headache |
19% |
15% |
|
Abdominal pain b |
18% |
10% |
|
Decreased appetite |
16% |
4% |
|
Somnolence c |
11% |
4% |
|
Vomiting |
11% |
6% |
|
Nausea |
10% |
5% |
|
Fatigue |
8% |
3% |
|
Irritability |
6% |
3% |
|
Dizziness |
5% |
2% |
|
Decrease weight |
3% |
0% |
|
Anorexia |
3% |
1% |
|
Rash |
2% |
1% |
|
aAdverse reactions reported by at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated patients and greater than placebo-treated patients.
|
||
Adverse reaction in the atomoxetine capsules-treated patients who received twice daily, and once daily dosing are shown in Table 4 (adverse reactions based on statistically significant Breslow-Day tests).
Table 4: Common Adverse Reactions in Acute studies (up to 18 weeks) in Pediatric Patients 6 Years and Older with ADHD
|
ADHD Studies with Twice Daily Dosing |
ADHD Studies with Once Daily Dosing |
|||
|
Atomoxetine Capsules
|
Placebo
|
Atomoxetine Capsules
|
Placebo
|
|
|
Abdominal pain a |
17% |
13% |
18% |
7% |
|
Vomiting |
11% |
8% |
11% |
4% |
|
Nausea |
7% |
6% |
13% |
4% |
|
Fatigue |
6% |
4% |
9% |
2% |
|
Mood swings b |
2% |
0% |
1% |
1% |
|
Constipation c |
2% |
1% |
1% |
0% |
|
aAbdominal pain includes the terms: upper abdominal pain upper, epigastric discomfort.
|
||||
Common Adverse Reactions by CYP2D6 Metabolizer Status in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric
Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:Table 5 displays adverse reactions occurred in at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and were statistically significantly more frequent in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers compared with other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate).
Table 5: Common Adverse Reactions ain Acute Studies (up to 18 weeks) in Atomoxetine Capsules-Treated Pediatric Patients 6 Years and Older with ADHD by CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types
|
Atomoxetine Capsules CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers
|
Atomoxetine Capsules Other CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types
|
|
|
Insomnia |
11% |
6% |
|
Decreased weight |
7% |
4% |
|
Constipation |
7% |
4% |
|
Depressionb |
7% |
4% |
|
Tremor |
5% |
1% |
|
Excoriation |
4% |
2% |
|
Sedation |
4% |
2% |
|
Middle insomnia |
3% |
1% |
|
Conjunctivitis |
3% |
1% |
|
Syncope |
3% |
1% |
|
Early morning awakening |
2% |
1% |
|
Mydriasis |
2% |
1% |
|
aAdverse reactions that occurred in at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and were statistically significantly more frequent in poor metabolizers compared with other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate).
|
||
Less Common Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:
The following reactions did not meet this criterion but were reported by more atomoxetine capsules-treated patients than placebo-treated patients and are possibly related to atomoxetine capsules treatment: blood pressure increased, early morning awakening (terminal insomnia), flushing, mydriasis, sinus tachycardia, asthenia, palpitations, mood swings, constipation, and dyspepsia. The following reactions were reported by at least 2% of patients treated with atomoxetine, and equal to or less than placebo: pharyngolaryngeal pain, insomnia (insomnia includes the terms, insomnia, initial insomnia, middle insomnia). The following reaction did not meet this criterion but shows a statistically significant dose relationship: pruritus.
Seizures in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:Atomoxetine has not been systematically evaluated in pediatric patients with seizure disorder as these patients were excluded from clinical studies in the atomoxetine capsules studies. In the clinical development program, seizures were reported in 0.2% (12/5,073) of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients whose average age was 10 years old (range 6 to 16 years of age). In these clinical trials, for atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients the seizure incidence among CYP2D6 poor metabolizers was 0.3% (1/293) compared to 0.2% (11/4,741) for other CYP2D6 metabolizer types.
Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Increases in the Clinical Studies of Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older:
Additional data from ADHD clinical trials (controlled and uncontrolled) has shown that approximately 5 to 10% of pediatric patients treated with atomoxetine capsules experienced potentially clinically important changes in heart rate (≥20 beats per minute) or blood pressure (≥15 to 20 mm Hg)
[see
Contraindications (4)and
Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
.
Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Adults with ADHD
Discontinuation of Treatment Due to Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Adults: In the acute adult placebo-controlled trials, 11% (61/541) atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients and 3% (12/405) of placebo-treated patients discontinued for adverse reactions. Among atomoxetine capsules-treated patients, insomnia (0.9%, N=5); nausea (0.9%, N=5); chest pain (0.6%, N=3); fatigue (0.6%, N=3); anxiety (0.4%, N=2); erectile dysfunction (0.4%, N=2); mood swings (0.4%, N=2); nervousness (0.4%, N=2); palpitations (0.4%, N=2); and urinary retention (0.4%, N=2) were the reasons for discontinuation reported by more than one patient.
Common Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Adults:Commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the use of atomoxetine capsules (incidence of 2% or greater) and not observed at an equivalent incidence among placebo-treated patients (atomoxetine capsules incidence greater than placebo) are listed in Table 6. The most commonly observed adverse reactions in patients treated with atomoxetine capsules (incidence of 5% or greater and at least twice the incidence in placebo patients) were: constipation, dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, dizziness, erectile dysfunction, and urinary hesitation ( seeTable 6).
Table 6: Common Adverse Reactions aAssociated in Acute Studies (up to 25 weeks) of Adult Patients with ADHD
|
Atomoxetine Capsules
|
Placebo
|
|
|
Nausea |
26% |
6% |
|
Dry mouth |
20% |
5% |
|
Decreased appetite |
16% |
3% |
|
Insomnia d |
15% |
8% |
|
Fatigue |
10% |
6% |
|
Erectile dysfunction f |
8% |
1% |
|
Constipation |
8% |
3% |
|
Dizziness |
8% |
3% |
|
Somnolence c |
8% |
5% |
|
Abdominal pain b |
7% |
4% |
|
Urinary hesitation e |
6% |
1% |
|
Irritability |
5% |
3% |
|
Ejaculation delayedf and/or ejaculation disorder f |
4% |
1% |
|
Hyperhidrosis |
4% |
1% |
|
Dyspepsia |
4% |
2% |
|
Vomiting |
4% |
2% |
|
Abnormal dreams |
4% |
3% |
|
Chills |
3% |
0% |
|
Paraesthesia |
3% |
0% |
|
Hot flush |
3% |
0% |
|
Palpitations |
3% |
1% |
|
Libido decreased |
3% |
1% |
|
Sleep disorder |
3% |
1% |
|
Dysmenorrhea g |
3% |
2% |
|
Dysuria |
2% |
0% |
|
Thirst |
2% |
1% |
|
Weight decreased |
2% |
1% |
|
Feeling jittery |
2% |
1% |
|
aReactions reported by at least 2% of patients treated with atomoxetine capsules, and greater than placebo. The following reactions did not meet this criterion but were reported by more atomoxetine-treated patients than placebo-treated patients and are possibly related to atomoxetine treatment: peripheral coldness, tachycardia, prostatitis, testicular pain, orgasm abnormal, flatulence, asthenia, feeling cold, muscle spasm, dysgeusia, agitation, restlessness, micturition urgency, pollakiuria, pruritus, urticaria, flushing, tremor, menstruation irregular, rash, and urinary retention.
|
||
Common Adverse Reactions by CYP2D6 Metabolizer Status in the Clinical Studies of Adults:Table 7 displays adverse reactions that occurred in at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated adult patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and were statistically significantly more frequent compared to other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate).
Table 7: Common Adverse Reactions ain Acute Studies (up to 18 weeks) in Atomoxetine Capsules-Treated Adults with ADHD by CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types
|
Atomoxetine Capsules CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers
|
Atomoxetine Capsules Other CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types
|
|
|
Dry mouth |
35% |
17% |
|
Decreased appetite |
23% |
15% |
|
Erectile dysfunction |
21% |
9% |
|
Insomnia |
19% |
11% |
|
Hyperhidrosis |
15% |
7% |
|
Constipation |
11% |
7% |
|
Sleep disorder |
7% |
3% |
|
Urinary retention |
6% |
1% |
|
Ejaculation disorder |
6% |
2% |
|
Tremor |
5% |
1% |
|
Feeling jittery |
5% |
2% |
|
Middle insomnia |
5% |
3% |
|
Blurred vision |
4% |
1% |
|
Terminal insomnia |
3% |
1% |
|
Peripheral coldness |
3% |
1% |
|
aAdverse reactions that occurred in at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated pediatric patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and were statistically significantly more frequent in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers compared with other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate). |
||
Less Common Adverse Reactions in the Clinical Studies of Adults:The following reactions did not meet this criterion but were reported by more atomoxetine capsules-treated patients than placebo treated patients and are possibly related to atomoxetine treatment: peripheral coldness, tachycardia, prostatitis, testicular pain, orgasm abnormal, flatulence, asthenia, feeling cold, muscle spasm, dysgeusia, agitation, restlessness, micturition urgency, pollakiuria, pruritus, urticaria, flushing, tremor, menstruation irregular, rash, and urinary retention.
Seizures in the Clinical Studies of Adults:Atomoxetine has not been systematically evaluated in adult patients with a seizure disorder as these patients were excluded from clinical studies during the product’s premarket testing. In the clinical development program, seizures were reported on 0.1% (1/748) of adult patients treated with atomoxetine capsules. In these clinical trials, no CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (0/43) reported seizures compared to 0.1% (1/705) for other CYP2D6 metabolizer types.
Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Increases in the Clinical Studies of Adults:Table 8 displays the proportion of atomoxetine capsules-treated and placebo-treated patients who had an increase in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥15 mm Hg, systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥20 mm Hg, or heart rate ≥ 20 bpm in short-term, placebo-controlled clinical studies of in pediatric and adult patients with ADHD [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] .
Table 8: Proportion of ADHD Patients With an Increase ≥15 mm Hg in DBP, ≥20 mm Hg in SBP, or ≥20 bpm in Heart Rate a
|
Pediatric Acute ADHD Studies |
Adult Acute ADHD Studies |
|||||||
|
Maximum b |
Endpoint |
Maximum b |
Endpoint |
|||||
|
Atomoxetine Capsules |
Placebo |
Atomoxetine Capsules |
Placebo |
Atomoxetine Capsules |
Placebo |
Atomoxetine Capsules |
Placebo |
|
|
DBP (≥15 mm Hg) |
22% |
14% |
9% |
5% |
13% |
9% |
5% |
4% |
|
SBP (≥20 mm Hg) |
13% |
9% |
5% |
3% |
12% |
8% |
4% |
3% |
|
HR (≥20 bpm) |
23% |
12% |
12% |
4% |
22% |
8% |
10% |
2% |
|
aAbbreviations: bpm=beats per minute; DBP=diastolic blood pressure; HR=heart rate; mm Hg=millimeters mercury; SBP=systolic blood pressure.
|
||||||||
Additional data from ADHD clinical trials (controlled and uncontrolled) showed that approximately 5 to 10% of adult patients treated with atomoxetine capsules had potentially clinically important changes in heart rate (≥20 beats per minute) or blood pressure (≥15 to 20 mm Hg) [see Contraindications (4)and Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] .
Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction in the Clinical Studies of Adults:Atomoxetine capsules impaired sexual function in some patients. Estimates of the incidence of untoward sexual experience and performance in these studies are likely to underestimate their actual incidence because patients and health care providers may be reluctant to discuss them. Sexual adverse reactions reported by at least 2% of atomoxetine capsules-treated adult patients in the placebo-controlled studies of adults with ADHD (i.e., erectile dysfunction, dysmenorrhea, and ejaculation delayed and/or ejaculation disorder).
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies examining sexual dysfunction with atomoxetine treatment. While it is difficult to know the precise risk of sexual dysfunction associated with the use of atomoxetine, health care providers should routinely inquire about sexual dysfunction.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of atomoxetine. Unless otherwise specified, these adverse reactions have occurred in adults and pediatric patients. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
See Table 9 for clinically significant drug interactions with ATONCY and other drugs.
Table 9: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with ATONCY and Other Drugs
|
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
ATONCY is contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs, including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, or in patients who stopped an MAOI within 14 days. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
As with other drugs affecting brain monoamine concentrations, there have been reports of serious, sometimes fatal reactions (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability with fluctuations of vital signs, extreme agitation progressing to delirium/coma) with concomitant use of ATONCY and an MAOI. Some cases presented with features resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome. |
|
Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
With concomitant use of ATONCY and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor 1, increase the titration interval [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Atomoxetine is a CYP2D6 substrate. Concomitant use of ATONCY and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor increases atomoxetine exposure [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . |
|
Antihypertensive Drugs |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Increase the frequency of monitoring blood pressure and adjust ATONCY dosage as clinically appropriate. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Because of increased risk of increased blood pressure, ATONCY should be used cautiously with antihypertensive drugs, other drugs that increase blood pressure or pressor drugs (e.g., dopamine, dobutamine). |
|
Albuterol or Other Beta 2 (β2) Agonists |
|
|
Prevention or Management |
Increase the frequency of monitoring blood pressure and heart rate and adjust ATONCY dosage as clinically appropriate. |
|
Mechanism and Clinical Effect(s) |
Systemically administered albuterol (e.g., oral) can be potentiated by ATONCY, resulting in increases in heart rate and blood pressure Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . |
|
1See www.fda.gov/CYPandTransporterInteractingDrugs for examples of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors. |
|
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ADHD drugs, including ATONCY, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for ADHD Medications at 1-866-961-2388 or visiting
https://womensmentalhealth.org/adhd-medications/.
Risk Summary
Available published studies with atomoxetine use in pregnant women are insufficient to establish a drug- associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes.
Some animal reproduction studies of atomoxetine had adverse developmental outcomes. One of 3 studies in pregnant rabbits dosed during organogenesis resulted in decreased live fetuses and an increase in early resorptions, as well as slight increases in the incidences of atypical origin of carotid artery and absent subclavian artery. These effects were observed at plasma levels (AUC) 3 times and 0.4 times the human plasma levels in other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) and poor metabolizers receiving the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively. In rats dosed prior to mating and during organogenesis a decrease in fetal weight (female only) and an increase in the incidence of incomplete ossification of the vertebral arch in fetuses were observed at a dose approximately 5 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis. In one of 2 studies in which rats were dosed prior to mating through the periods of organogenesis and lactation, decreased pup weight and decreased pup survival were observed at doses corresponding to 5-6 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis. No adverse fetal effects were seen in pregnant rats dosed during the organogenesis period (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15- 20%, respectively.
Data
Animal Data: Pregnant rabbits were treated with up to 100 mg/kg/day of atomoxetine by gavage throughout the period of organogenesis. At this dose, in 1 of 3 studies, a decrease in live fetuses and an increase in early resorptions was observed. Slight increases in the incidences of atypical origin of carotid artery and absent subclavian artery were observed. These findings were observed at doses that caused slight maternal toxicity. The no-effect dose for these findings was 30 mg/kg/day. The 100 mg/kg dose is approximately 23 times the MRHD on a mg/m
2basis; plasma levels (AUC) of atomoxetine at this dose in rabbits are estimated to be 3.3 times (other CYP2D6 metabolizer types) or 0.4 times (CYP2D6 poor metabolizers) those in humans receiving the MRHD.
Rats were treated with up to approximately 50 mg/kg/day of atomoxetine (approximately 6 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis) in the diet from 2 weeks (females) or 10 weeks (males) prior to mating through the periods of organogenesis and lactation. In 1 of 2 studies, decreases in pup weight and pup survival were observed. The decreased pup survival was also seen at 25 mg/kg (but not at 13 mg/kg). In a study in which rats were treated with atomoxetine in the diet from 2 weeks (females) or 10 weeks (males) prior to mating throughout the period of organogenesis, a decrease in fetal weight (female only) and an increase in the incidence of incomplete ossification of the vertebral arch in fetuses were observed at 40 mg/kg/day (approximately 5 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis) but not at 20 mg/kg/day.
No adverse fetal effects were seen when pregnant rats were treated with up to 150 mg/kg/day of atomoxetine (approximately 17 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2basis) by gavage throughout the period of organogenesis.
Risk Summary
There are no data on the presence of atomoxetine or its metabolite in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Atomoxetine is present in animal milk. When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for ATONCY and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from atomoxetine hydrochloride or from the underlying maternal condition.
The safety and effectiveness of ATONCY for the treatment of ADHD have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older. Use of ATONCY for this indication is supported by evidence from another atomoxetine product in seven clinical trials in outpatients with ADHD: four acute treatment 6 to 9-week trials in pediatric subjects (ages 6 to 18 years), two acute treatment 10-week trials in adults, and one maintenance trial in pediatric subjects (ages 6 to 15 years) [see Clinical Studies (14)] .
ATONCYincreases the risk of suicidal ideation in pediatric patients. Anyone considering the use of ATONCY in a pediatric patient must balance the potential risks with the clinical need [see Boxed Warningand Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.10)] .
The safety and effectiveness of ATONCY in pediatric patients less than 6 years of age have not been established.
Juvenile Animal Toxicity Data
A study was conducted in young rats to evaluate the effects of atomoxetine on growth and neurobehavioral and sexual development. Rats were treated with 1, 10, or 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.2, 2, and 8 times, respectively, the maximum human dose on a mg/m
2basis) of atomoxetine given by gavage from the early postnatal period (Day 10 of age) through adulthood. Slight delays in onset of vaginal patency (all doses) and preputial separation (10 and 50 mg/kg), slight decreases in epididymal weight and sperm number (10 and 50 mg/kg), and a slight decrease in corpora lutea (50 mg/kg) were seen, but there were no effects on fertility or reproductive performance. A slight delay in onset of incisor eruption was seen at 50 mg/kg. A slight increase in motor activity was seen on Day 15 (males at 10 and 50 mg/kg and females at 50 mg/kg) and on Day 30 (females at 50 mg/kg) but not on Day 60 of age. There were no effects on learning and memory tests. The significance of these findings to humans is unknown.
The safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine in geriatric patients have not been evaluated. Clinical studies of atomoxetine did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult patients.
Compared with patients with normal hepatic function, atomoxetine exposure (AUC) was increased in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) (2-fold increase) and in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) (4-fold increase). The recommended dosage in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment is lower than in patients with normal hepatic function [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)] .
The recommended titration interval (before increasing the ATONCY dosage) is longer in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers than other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)] .
Atomoxetine plasma concentrations were higher in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers which may increase the risk of atomoxetine-related adverse reactions. In pediatric and adult patients, the mean heart rate was higher in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers compared to other CYP2D6 metabolizer types. In adult patients, the mean change from baseline in diastolic and systolic blood pressure for patients treated with another atomoxetine product was higher in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers compared to other CYP2D6 metabolizer types [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3, 12.5)] .
The prevalence of CYP2D6 poor metabolizers is approximately 7% in White populations, 2% in Asian populations, and 2% in Black or African American populations.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, abuse-potential study in adults that compared effects of another atomoxetine product and placebo, the other atomoxetine product was not associated with stimulant or euphoriant properties. Clinical study data in over 2,000 adults and pediatric patients with ADHD and over 1,200 adults with depression (ATONCY is not indicated for the treatment of depression) showed only isolated incidents of inappropriate atomoxetine self-administration.
Drug discrimination studies in rats and monkeys showed inconsistent stimulus generalization between atomoxetine and cocaine.
During postmarketing use, there have been fatalities reported involving a mixed ingestion overdose of atomoxetine and at least one other drug. There have been no reports of death involving overdose of atomoxetine alone, including intentional overdoses at amounts up to 1,400 mg (14 times the maximum recommended dosage). The most commonly reported symptoms with acute and chronic overdoses of atomoxetine were gastrointestinal symptoms, somnolence, dizziness, tremor, and abnormal behavior. Hyperactivity and agitation have also been reported. Signs and symptoms consistent with mild to moderate sympathetic nervous system activation (e.g., tachycardia, blood pressure increased, mydriasis, dry mouth) have also been observed. Most events were mild to moderate. In some cases of overdose involving atomoxetine, seizures have been reported. Less commonly, there have been reports of QT prolongation and mental changes, including disorientation and hallucinations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)] .
If an overdose occurs, consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdose management recommendations. Because atomoxetine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be useful in the treatment of overdose of ATONCY.
ATONCY (atomoxetine) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Atomoxetine hydrochloride is the R(-) isomer as determined by x-ray diffraction and its chemical designation is (-)- N-Methyl-3-phenyl-3-( o-tolyloxy)-propylamine hydrochloride and its molecular formula is C 17H 21NOHCl, which corresponds to a molecular weight of 291.82. The chemical structure is:
Atomoxetine hydrochloride is a white to almost white powder, which has a solubility of 27.8 mg/mL in water.
ATONCY oral solution is for oral administration only. Each mL contains 4 mg of atomoxetine (equivalent to 4.57 mg of atomoxetine hydrochloride) and the following inactive ingredients: grape flavor, maltitol solution, monobasic sodium phosphate, phosphoric acid, purified water, sodium benzoate, sodium hydroxide, sorbitol crystallizing solution, sucralose, and xylitol. ATONCY is a clear colorless solution, free from any visible foreign and particulate matter, free of precipitation and hazy mass with pH 3.0-5.0.
The precise mechanism by which ATONCY produces its therapeutic effects in the treatment of ADHD in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older is unknown, but is thought to be related to selective inhibition of the pre-synaptic norepinephrine transporter, as determined in ex vivo uptake and neurotransmitter depletion studies.
An exposure-response analysis of atomoxetine (0.5, 1.2 or 1.8 mg/kg/day) or placebo demonstrated atomoxetine exposure correlates with the treatment of the signs and symptoms of ADHD as measured by the ADHD Rating Scale (ADHDRS)-IV-Parent Version (investigator administered and scored). At the observed median area under the plasma-concentration curve (AUC) after administration of atomoxetine 0.5 mg/kg/day, 1.2 mg/kg/day, and 1.8 mg/kg/day, 62%, 78% and 85%, respectively, of the maximum improvement over baseline for the ADHDRS scores are expected.
Cardiac Electrophysiology
The effect of atomoxetine on QTc interval prolongation was evaluated in a randomized, double-blinded, positive-(moxifloxacin 400 mg) and placebo-controlled, cross-over study in healthy male CYP2D6 poor metabolizers. A total of 120 healthy subjects were administered another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) (20 mg and 60 mg) twice daily for 7 days. No large changes in QTc interval (i.e., increases >60 msec from baseline, absolute QTc >480 msec) were observed in the study. However, small changes in QTc interval cannot be excluded from this study, because the study failed to demonstrate assay sensitivity. There was a slight increase in QTc interval with increased atomoxetine concentration.
Pharmacodynamic Drug Interaction Studies
No clinically significant differences in pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine were observed after administration of ATONCY and immediate-release atomoxetine capsules under fasted conditions.
Pharmacokinetic parameters for atomoxetine and its metabolites in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) from studies of another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) are presented in Table 11.
Table 11: Atomoxetine and Metabolite Pharmacokinetics in Adult CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers and Other CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types
|
Parameter |
Other CYP2D6 Metabolizer Types a |
CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers b |
|
Absorption |
||
|
Dose proportionality |
10-120 mg |
|
|
Accumulation |
1.1-fold |
3.3-fold |
|
Absolute bioavailability |
63% |
94% |
|
T max |
1 hour |
- |
|
Effect of Food |
AUC: Unchanged; C max: Decreased 21% T max: Delayed 1 hour |
|
|
Distribution |
||
|
Protein Binding |
98% |
|
|
Volume of distribution |
0.85 L/kg |
|
|
Elimination |
||
|
Atomoxetine half-life |
5.2 hours |
21.6 hours |
|
Atomoxetine apparent oral clearance |
0.35 L/hr/kg |
0.03 L/hr/kg |
|
4-Hydroxyatomoxetine half-life |
6 to 8 hours |
- |
|
N-Desmethylatomoxetine half-life |
6 to 8 hours |
34 to 40 hours |
|
Metabolism |
||
|
Primary metabolic pathways |
CYP2D6 |
Other CYP enzymes |
|
4-Hydroxyatomoxetine c concentration |
1% of atomoxetine |
0.1% of atomoxetine d |
|
N-Desmethylatomoxetine e concentration |
5% of atomoxetine |
45% of atomoxetine |
|
Excretion |
||
|
Urine |
Greater than 80% of the administered dose excreted as 4- hydroxyatomoxetine-O-glucuronide; Less than 3% as unchanged drug |
|
|
Feces |
Less than 17% of the administered dose |
|
|
Values shown in the table are average values; T
maxis represented as median values.
|
||
Specific Populations
The pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine after administration of ATONCY in specific populations is based on the pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine after administration of another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) and these results are presented below.
Hepatic Impairment:Atomoxetine exposure (AUC) was increased by 2-fold in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) hepatic impairment and 4-fold in patients with severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function in other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
Renal Impairment:Patients with severe renal impairment (end stage renal disease) had higher systemic atomoxetine exposure (about a 65% increase) than patients with normal renal function (CrCl ≥ 90 ml/minute) in other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate), but there was no difference when exposure was corrected for mg/kg dose. Thus, the differences in exposure were not clinically significant.
Pediatric Patients:The pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine have been evaluated in more than 400 pediatric patients treated with another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) in clinical studies, primarily using population pharmacokinetic studies. Single-dose and steady-state individual pharmacokinetic data were also obtained in pediatric patients and adults. When atomoxetine doses were normalized to a mg/kg basis, similar half-life, Cmax, and AUC values were observed in pediatric patients and adults. Clearance and volume of distribution after adjustment for body weight were also similar.
Sex:Sex did not influence atomoxetine disposition.
Ethnic Origin:Ethnic origin did not influence atomoxetine disposition.
Drug interaction Studies
The pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine after administration of ATONCY with concomitant drugs is based on the pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine after administration of another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) and these results are presented below.
Clinical Studies
Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors:Concomitant use of another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) (20 mg twice daily for 5 days) with paroxetine (20 mg once daily for 17 days), a known inhibitor of CYP2D6, in subjects who were not CYP2D6 poor metabolizers resulted in a 6.5-fold higher plasma exposure (AUC) to atomoxetine at steady state.
Concomitant use of the other atomoxetine product (at sequential dosing of 10, 45, and 75 mg twice daily for up to 5 days of each dosage) with fluoxetine (20 mg once daily for 36 days) a known inhibitor of CYP2D6, in subjects who were not CYP2D6 poor metabolizers resulted in 6- to 8-fold increases of plasma atomoxetine exposure (AUC) at steady state compared to taking the other atomoxetine product alone.
After concomitant use of the other atomoxetine product with paroxetine or fluoxetine, the C ss, maxof atomoxetine was about 3-to 4-fold greater than the use of atomoxetine alone [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
CYP3A Substrates:Concomitant use of the other atomoxetine product (60 mg twice daily for 12 days) with midazolam (CYP3A substrate) (single dose of 5 mg), resulted in 15% increase in the midazolam AUC. This pharmacokinetic change is not clinically significant.
CYP2D6 Substrates:Concomitant use of the other atomoxetine product (40 or 60 mg twice daily for 13 days) with desipramine (CYP2D6 substrate) (single dose of 50 mg), did not alter the desipramine pharmacokinetics.
Drugs that Affect Gastric pH:Drugs that elevate gastric pH had no effect on atomoxetine bioavailability.
In Vitro Studies:
Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Protein:In vitro drug-displacement studies were conducted with another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules) and other drugs highly bound to plasma protein at therapeutic atomoxetine concentrations. Atomoxetine did not affect the binding of warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid, phenytoin, or diazepam to human albumin. Similarly, warfarin, acetylsalicylic acid, phenytoin, or diazepam did not affect the binding of atomoxetine to human albumin.
CYP Inhibition/induction:Atomoxetine did not cause clinically important inhibition or induction of cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP3A, CYP2D6, and CYP2C9.
Atomoxetine is metabolized by CYP2D6 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . The gene encoding CYP2D6 has variants that affect CYP2D6 metabolic function. CYP2D6 poor metabolizers are individuals with two nonfunctional alleles (e.g., CYP2D6*5/*5), and as a result have no CYP2D6 enzyme activity.
In a study of another atomoxetine product (i.e., atomoxetine capsules), atomoxetine AUC was approximately 10-fold higher and atomoxetine Css,max was approximately 5-fold higher in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers compared to other CYP2D6 metabolizer types (ultrarapid, normal, and intermediate) [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Carcinogenesis
Atomoxetine HCl was not carcinogenic in rats and mice when given in the diet for 2 years at time-weighted average doses up to 47 and 458 mg/kg/day, respectively. The highest dose used in rats is approximately 8 and 5 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) in pediatrice patients and adults, respectively, on a mg/m
2basis.
Plasma levels (AUC) of atomoxetine at this dose in rats are estimated to be 1.8 times (other CYP2D6 metabolizer types) or 0.2 times (CYP2D6 poor metabolizers) those in humans receiving the maximum human dose. The highest dose used in mice is approximately 39 and 26 times the MRHD in pediatrice patients and adults, respectively, on a mg/m 2basis.
Mutagenesis
Atomoxetine HCl was negative in a battery of genotoxicity studies that included a reverse point mutation assay (Ames Test), an in vitro mouse lymphoma assay, a chromosomal aberration test in Chinese hamster ovary cells, an unscheduled DNA synthesis test in rat hepatocytes, and an in vivo micronucleus test in mice. However, there was a slight increase in the percentage of Chinese hamster ovary cells with diplochromosomes, suggesting endoreduplication (numerical aberration).
The metabolite N-desmethylatomoxetine HCl was negative in the Ames Test, mouse lymphoma assay, and unscheduled DNA synthesis test.
Impairment of fertility
Atomoxetine HCl did not impair fertility in rats when given in the diet at doses of up to 57 mg/kg/day, which is approximately 6 times the MRHD on a mg/m
2basis.
The effectiveness of ATONCY has been established for the treatment of ADHD in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older based on adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD. Below is a display of the efficacy results of the adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD.
Acute Studies in Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older with ADHD
In four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of pediatric patients 6 to 18 years of age (Studies 1, 2, 3, and 4) with ADHD, approximately one-third of the patients met DSM-IV criteria for inattentive ADHD subtype and two-thirds met criteria for both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive ADHD subtypes.
In these studies, signs and symptoms of ADHD were evaluated with the investigator administered and scored ADHD Rating Scale-IV-Parent Version (ADHDRS) total score including hyperactive/impulsive and inattentive subscales by comparing the mean change from baseline to endpoint in the atomoxetine and placebo groups using an intent-to-treat (ITT) analysis (the primary endpoint). Each item on the ADHDRS maps directly to one symptom criterion for ADHD in the DSM-IV.
In Study 1, an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-response, acute treatment study, pediatric patients 8 to 18 years of age (N=297) received either a fixed dosage of atomoxetine capsules (0.25, 0.6, or 9 mg/kg twice daily (in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening) or placebo. Improvements in ADHD symptoms were statistically significantly superior in patients treated with either of the two higher atomoxetine capsules dosages compared with patients treated with placebo as measured on the ADHDRS scale. The 0.9 mg/kg twice daily atomoxetine capsules dosage did not provide any additional benefit over that observed with the 0.6 mg/kg twice daily atomoxetine capsules dosage. The 0.25 mg/kg twice daily atomoxetine capsules dosage group was not superior to the placebo group.
In Study 2, a 6-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, acute treatment study, pediatric patients 6 to 16 years of age (N=171) received either atomoxetine capsules or placebo. Atomoxetine capsules was administered as a once daily dosage in the early morning and titrated on a weightadjusted basis according to clinical response, up to a maximum dosage of 1.5 mg/kg once daily. The mean final dosage of atomoxetine capsules was approximately 1.3 mg/kg once daily. ADHD symptoms were statistically significantly improved in the atomoxetine capsules group compared to the placebo group, as measured on the ADHDRS scale. Study 2 showed that atomoxetine capsules was effective when administered once daily in the morning.
In two identically designed, 9-week, acute, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. pediatric patients 7 to 13 years of age (Study 3, N=147; Study 4, N=144) were randomized to receive atomoxetine capsules, methylphenidate, or placebo. In Studies 3 and 4, atomoxetine capsules was administered twice daily in the early morning and late afternoon (after school) and titrated on a weight-adjusted basis according to clinical response up to a maximum recommended atomoxetine capsules dosage of 1 mg/kg twice daily. The mean final dosage of atomoxetine capsules in Studies 3 and 4 was approximately 0.8 mg/kg twice daily. In both Studies 3 and 4, ADHD symptoms statistically significantly improved more in the atomoxetine capsules group than in the placebo group, as measured on the ADHDRS scale.
Examination of population subsets based on sex and age (<12 and 12 to 17 years of age) in these studies did not reveal any differences in response. There were not sufficient numbers of patients in racial or ethnic groups to determine if there were differences in responses in these subgroups.
Maintenance Study in Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older with ADHD
The effectiveness of atomoxetine capsules in the maintenance treatment of ADHD in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older was studied in an outpatient randomized withdrawal study of pediatric patients 6-15 years of age (Study 5). In this study, patients who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD who showed continuous response for about 4 weeks during an initial 10 week open-label treatment phase with atomoxetine capsules (1.2 to 1.8 mg/kg/day) were randomized to continue their current atomoxetine capsules dosage (N=292) or placebo (N=124) under double-blind treatment for observation of relapse (first double-blind phase). Response during the open-label phase was defined as CGI-ADHD-S score ≤2 and a reduction of at least 25% from baseline in ADHDRS-IV-Parent: Investigator total score.
Patients who were assigned to atomoxetine capsules during the first double-blind phase who showed continuous response for approximately 8 months during the first double-blind treatment phase were again randomized to continue of their current atomoxetine capsules dosage (N=81) or placebo (N=82) under double-blind treatment for observation of relapse (second double-blind phase). Relapse during each of the double-blind phases was defined as CGI-ADHD-S score increases of at least 2 from the end of open-label phase and ADHDRS-IV-Parent:Inv total score returns to ≥90% of study entry score for 2 consecutive visits.
In both double-blind phases, patients who received continued atomoxetine capsules treatment experienced significantly longer times to relapse than those who received placebo.
The effectiveness of ATONCY has been established for the treatment of ADHD in adults based on adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules in adult patients with ADHD. Below is a display of the efficacy results of the adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules in adult patients with ADHD.
The effectiveness of atomoxetine capsules for the treatment of ADHD in adults was evaluated in two 10- week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies of adult patients, 18 years of age and older, who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD (Study 6, N=280; Study 7, N=256).
In Studies 6 and 7, signs and symptoms of ADHD were evaluated using the 30-item investigator administered Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale Screening Version (CAARS). In these studies, the primary efficacy endpoint was the mean change from baseline to endpoint (using an ITT analysis) in the 18-item Total ADHD Symptom score (the sum of the inattentive and hyperactivity/impulsivity subscales from the CAARS).
In Studies 6 and 7, patients received either atomoxetine capsules or placebo. Patients in the atomoxetine capsules group received 30 mg to 60 mg twice a day (in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening) of atomoxetine capsules which was titrated according to clinical response. The mean final atomoxetine capsules dosage in these studies was approximately 48 mg twice daily. In both studies, ADHD symptoms were statistically significantly improved in the atomoxetine capsules group compared to the placebo group, as measured on the ADHD Symptom score from the CAARS scale.
In Studies 6, and 7, examination of population subsets based on sex and age (<42 and ≥42 years of age) did not reveal any differences in response. There was not sufficient exposure of number of patients in racial and ethnic groups to determine differences in responses among these subgroups.
The safety of ATONCY has been established from adequate and well-controlled studies of atomoxetine capsules (also referred to as another atomoxetine product) in patients 6 years of age and older with ADHD. Below is a display of the adverse reactions of atomoxetine capsules in two safety studies.
Tourette’s Disorder or Chronic Motor Tic Disorder
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 18-week trial in 148 pediatric patients 7 to 17 years old with a DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD and concurrent Tourette syndrome or chronic motor tic disorder, the effect of atomoxetine capsules on tic severity was assessed. Patients in the atomoxetine capsules group received a flexible dosage range of 0.5 to 1.5 mg/kg/day (mean dose of 1.3 mg/kg/day). In this study, 80% (n=116) of patients had Tourette’s Disorder and 20% (n=29) of patients had chronic motor tic disorder. A non-inferiority analysis revealed that atomoxetine did not worsen tics in these patients as determined by the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale Total Score (YGTSS). Out of 148 patients who entered the acute treatment phase, 103 (70%) patients discontinued the study. The primary reason for discontinuation in both the atomoxetine capsules group (50% (38/76) and placebo group (63% (45/72) was identified lack of ADHD efficacy with most of the patients discontinuing at Week 12. There have been postmarketing reports of tics in atomoxetine -treated patients
[see
Adverse Reactions (6.2)]
.
Anxiety in Pediatric Patients with ADHD and Anxiety Disorders
Two post-marketing, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials demonstrated that treating patients with ADHD and comorbid anxiety disorders with atomoxetine capsules does not worsen their anxiety.
In a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 176 pediatric patients 8-17 years of age, who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD and at least one of the anxiety disorders of separation anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder or social phobia were randomized to receive atomoxetine capsules or placebo. In the atomoxetine capsules group, following a 2-week double-blind placebo lead-in, atomoxetine capsules was initiated at 0.8 mg/kg/day with increase to a target dosage of 1.2 mg/kg/day (median dosage 1.3 mg/kg/day +/- 0.29 mg/kg/day). Atomoxetine capsules did not worsen anxiety in these patients as determined by the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale (PARS). Of the 158 patients who completed the double-blind placebo lead-in, 26 (16%) patients discontinued the study.
In a separate 16-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 442 patients aged 18-65, who met DSM-IV criteria for adult ADHD and social anxiety disorder (23% of whom also had Generalized Anxiety Disorder) were randomized to receive atomoxetine capsules or placebo. In the atomoxetine capsules group, following a 2-week double-blind placebo lead-in, atomoxetine capsules was initiated at 40 mg/day to a maximum dosage of 100 mg/day (mean daily dosage 83 mg/day +/- 19.5 mg/day). Atomoxetine capsules did not worsen anxiety in these patients as determined by the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS). Of the 413 patients who completed the double-blind placebo lead-in, 36% (n=149) patients discontinued the study. There have been postmarketing reports of anxiety in atomoxetine-treated patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)] .
ATONCY TM(atomoxetine) oral solution is supplied in a 100 mL, amber glass bottles with child-resistant cap, and is co-packaged with a 10 mL calibrated oral dosing syringe and bottle adapter: NDC: 30698-456- 02. Each mL contains 4 mg of atomoxetine (equivalent to 4.57 mg of atomoxetine hydrochloride), clear colorless solution, free from any visible foreign and particulate matter, free of precipitation and hazy mass. Supplied with a 10 mL syringe and a bottle adapter.
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guideand Instructions for Use).
Suicide Risk
Patients, their families, and their caregivers should be alerted about the need to monitor patients daily for the emergence of anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, mania, other unusual changes in behavior, depression, and suicidal ideation, especially early during ATONCY treatment and when the dosage is adjusted. Such symptoms should be reported to the patient’s health care provider immediately
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
.
Severe Liver Injury
Patients initiating ATONCY should be cautioned that severe liver injury may develop. Patients should be instructed to contact their healthcare provider immediately should they develop pruritus, dark urine, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, or unexplained “flu-like” symptoms
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
.
Serious Cardiovascular Reactions
Patients who develop symptoms such as exertional chest pain, unexplained syncope, or other symptoms suggestive of cardiac disease during ATONCY treatment should stop ATONCY and contact a health care provider
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
.
Increased Blood Pressure or Heart Rate
Atomoxetine can increase the blood pressure and heart rate
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
.
Emergence of New Psychotic or Manic Symptoms and Activation of Mania
Instruct patients and their caregivers to look for signs of activation of mania/hypomania and psychosis
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
.
Aggression or Hostility
Instruct patients and their caregivers to contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible should they notice an increase in aggression or hostility
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
.
Priapism
The parents or guardians of pediatric patients taking ATONCY and adult patients taking atomoxetine should be instructed that priapism requires prompt medical attention
[see
Warnings and Precautions (5.10)]
.
Ocular Irritant
Atomoxetine is an ocular irritant. In the event ATONCY comes in contact with an eye, the affected eye should be flushed immediately with water, and medical advice obtained. Hands and any potentially contaminated surfaces should be washed as soon as possible.
Drug-Drug Interactions
Patients should be instructed to consult a healthcare provider if they are taking or plan to take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, or herbal remedies
[see
Drug Interactions (7)]
.
Sexual Dysfunction
Advise patients that ATONCY may impair sexual function. Advise patients if they experience sexual dysfunction, they should contact their health care provider
[see
Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
.
Pregnancy Registry
Advise patients that there is a pregnancy registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to atomoxetine during pregnancy
[see
Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]
.
Food
Patients may take ATONCY with or without food.
Missed Dose
If patients miss an ATONCY dose, they should be instructed to take it as soon as possible, but should not take more than the prescribed total daily amount of ATONCY in any 24-hour period.
Somnolence
The incidence of somnolence was higher in atomoxetine-treated patients than placebo-treated patients
[see
Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
. Patients should be instructed to use caution when driving a car or operating hazardous machinery until they are reasonably certain that their performance is not affected by ATONCY.
Manufactured by:
Rubicon Research Limited,
Satara, 415004, India
Distributed by:
Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC
Parsippany, NJ 07054
www.validuspharma.com
1-866-982-5438
© 2026 Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC
|
MEDICATION GUIDE
|
||||
|
What is the most important information I should know about ATONCY? ATONCY can cause serious side effects, including:
Tell your healthcare provider right away if any of the following symptoms develop during treatment, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you: |
||||
|
|
|
||
|
See “What are the possible side effects of ATONCY?”for more information about side effects. |
||||
|
What is ATONCY? ATONCY is a prescription medicine used to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years of age and older. ATONCY may help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in people with ADHD. ATONCY should be used as a part of a total treatment program for ADHD that may include counseling or other therapies. It is not known if ATONCY is safe and effective in children less than 6 years old. |
||||
|
Who should not take ATONCY? Do not take ATONCY if you or your child:
|
||||
|
Before taking ATONCY, tell your healthcare provider about all medical conditions, including if you or your child:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines that you or your child take including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.ATONCY and some medicines may interact with each other and cause serious side effects. Your healthcare provider will decide whether ATONCY can be taken with other medicines. |
||||
|
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you or your child take:
Know the medicines that you or your child take. Keep a list of your medicines with you to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Do not start any new medicines during treatment with ATONCY without talking to your healthcare provider first. |
||||
|
How should I take ATONCY?
|
||||
|
What should I avoid while taking ATONCY?
|
||||
|
What are possible side effects of ATONCY? ATONCYcan cause serious side effects, including:
|
||||
|
|
|
||
|
||||
|
|
|||
|
||||
|
|
|||
The most common side effects of ATONCY in children include: |
||||
|
|
|||
|
The most common side effects of ATONCY in adults include: |
||||
|
|
|||
|
ATONCY may cause sexual problems (dysfunction).Talk to your healthcare provider if any of the following symptoms develop during treatment: |
||||
|
Symptoms in males may include:
|
Symptoms in females may include:
|
|||
|
Your healthcare provider may stop ATONCY treatment if serious side effects develop during treatment. These are not all of the possible side effects of ATONCY. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. |
||||
|
How should I store ATONCY?
Keep ATONCY and all medicines out of the reach of children. |
||||
|
General information about the safe and effective use of ATONCY. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use ATONCY for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give ATONCY to other people, even if they have the same condition. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about ATONCY that is written for health professionals. |
||||
|
What are the ingredients in ATONCY?
Manufactured by:
www.validuspharma.com
|
||||
This Medication Guide has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Issued: 3/2026
|
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
|
|||
|
This Instructions for Use contains information on how to take ATONCY. Important Information You Need to Know Before Taking ATONCY:
Storing ATONCY
|
|||
| Supplies included in the ATONCY Carton | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Hand Washing | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 1: Preparing the Bottle | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 2: Measuring the Dose of ATONCY | |||
|
|
| ||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 3: | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 4: | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 5: | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 6: | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 7: Taking the dose of ATONCY | |||
|
|
| ||
|
Step 8: Cleaning up
Step 9: Disposing of ATONCY
Manufactured by:
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Issued 3/2026 | |||
ATONCY (atomoxetine hydrochloride) Oral Solution 4mg/mL - NDC: 30698-456-02 - 100 mL Bottle Label
ATONCY (atomoxetine hydrochloride) Oral Solution 4mg/mL - NDC: 30698-456-02 - 100mL Carton Label
| ATONCY
atomoxetine hydrochloride solution |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
| Labeler - Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC (801194619) |