Starting atomoxetine instead of a stimulant because of my heart. Anyone over 60?

Starting atomoxetine instead of a stimulant because of heart disease is a clinician decision, not a community protocol, including after 60. Atomoxetine has an adult ADHD indication in Canada and carries cardiovascular warnings, including effects on blood pressure and heart rate, and interaction issues such as CYP2D6. That still does not make it a DIY substitute. If the change is persistent, distressing, or affecting daily functioning, bring a brief timeline to the prescribing clinician rather than changing the dose independently. Related reading: https://www.fastreat.com/en/blogs/adhd-medication References: https://www.camh.ca/en/professionals/treating-conditions-and-disorders/adult-adhd/adult-adhd---treatment/adult-adhd---pharmacotherapy https://www.caddra.ca/pdfs/caddraGuidelinesAppendix08.pdf https://www.caddra.ca/wp-content/uploads/Canadian-ADHD-Practice-Guidelines-4.1-January-6-2021.pdf

Cardiology did not want a stimulant on my chart, so psychiatry floated another name I had to look up later. I am over 60 and I felt like the experimental uncle. I did not pick the substitute off a forum menu. Follow-up was a lot of blood pressure talk and me writing down how my stomach felt. This is only my detour, not a recipe.

Atomoxetine was the name they used after the heart letters came back. I had hoped for the same tablet my nephew takes. I told them I was scared of feeling like a science project. They still would not let me trade advice with him about milligrams. I still feel odd about the whole detour. I am describing my waiting room, not telling anyone to copy the switch.