Which of the following neurotransmitters does Atomoxetine primarily affect?

Atomoxetine primarily affects norepinephrine as it is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI). This means that atomoxetine works by blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine in the brain, thereby increasing its levels in the synaptic cleft. By enhancing norepinephrine activity, atomoxetine is effective in treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as norepinephrine plays a key role in attention and impulse control.

In contrast, while dopamine is indeed involved in various neural pathways related to mood and behavior, atomoxetine does not primarily target dopamine; instead, its action on norepinephrine can indirectly influence dopaminergic transmission. Serotonin is another neurotransmitter that is important for mood regulation and is affected by other medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); however, atomoxetine does not primarily act on serotonin pathways. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is involved in reducing neuronal excitability, but again, it is not the primary target of atomoxetine.

Thus, the focus of atomoxetine's pharmacological action is specifically on norepinephrine, making it an effective treatment option for conditions where norepinephrine