Atomoxetine HCl, first non-stimulant ADHD
medication now available in the Philippines

Atomoxetine HCl, a non-stimulant treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is now available in the Philippines. It is the first and only non-stimulant approved for the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents and adults.

"Until recently, stimulants were the most effective medication for ADHD. With Atomoxetine HCl, we are now able to offer parents and their children an alternative to stimulant treatment," said Sandeep Gupta, president and general manager of Eli Lilly (Philippines), Inc.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Atomoxetine HCl on November 26, 2002 for the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. It became available in the United States in January 2003. The medication is also currently approved in the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, Argentina and other Latin American countries.

Atomoxetine HCl is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Unlike previous FDA-approved treatments for ADHD, Atomoxetine HCl is not a controlled substance and is not a stimulant under the US Controlled Substances Act.

It is not known precisely how Atomoxetine HCl reduces ADHD symptoms, but scientists believe it works by blocking or slowing reabsorption of norepinephrine, a chemical in the brain considered important in regulating attention, impulsivity and activity levels. This keeps more norepinphrine at work in the spaces between neurons in the brain.

ADHD, historically known as Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD), is a medical condition that first appears in childhood. ADHD affects 3-7 percent of school-age children and manifests itself in levels of attention, concentration, activity, distractibility and impulsivity inappropriate to the child's age. Many children with the disorder will continue to have symptoms in adulthood, although the hyperactivity tends to decrease with age.

ADHD affect not only the patient, but also those involved in a patient's life. Symptoms often are severe enough to interfered with daily life and may affect a patient's ability to foster healthy relationships with others and function productively, whether at school, home or in social situations.

Atomoxetine HCl is a prescription drug and individuals should consult their physicians for further information regarding ADHD and its treatment.

About Lilly
Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation, is developing a growing portfolio of first-in-class and best-in-class pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Inc., Lilly provides answers - through medicines and information - for some of the world's most urgent medical needs. Additional information about Lilly is available at www.lilly.com.

# # #

Related Websites

Health, Fitness and Beauty - Tips, Products and Buyer's Guide
Buyer's guide to cosmetic supplies, makeup tips, fitness equipment, skin care products, supplements and fashion accessories such as jewelry, bags, shoes, fragrance and more. Your guide to shopping online.