No stimulant? No Problem: Analyzing Black Market Sales of Atomoxetine on StreetRx

Objective The purpose of this report was to analyze black market diversions of atomoxetine, a non-stimulant medication for ADHD, submitted to StreetRx. Method Data related to black market atomoxetine purchases entered on StreetRx between 2015 and 2019 were analyzed. Data included generic drug name, dosage, purchase price, and date and location in the United States. The mean price per milligram was determined and a heatmap generated. Results The average price per milligram cost of 113 diverted atomoxetine submissions was $1.35 ({+/-} $2.76 SD) (Median = $0.05, Min = $0.01, Max = $20.00). The states with the most submissions included Michigan (11), Pennsylvania (9), Indiana (8), and Ohio (8). Conclusion Furture qualitative studies should investigate reasons why individuals are motivated to purchase atomoxetine, a non-stimulant medication, on the black market (recreational vs. nootropic vs. other clinical uses).