In this paper, we did a research on optimization for synthesis of racemic atomoxetine which is a very important intermediate for the synthesis of atomoxetine hydrochloride. It was synthesized using 3-methylamino-1-phenylpropanol as the starting material via such three steps as etherification, purification and salt formation. Optimum reaction conditions were obtained while the effects of raw materials molar ratio, reaction temperature and phase transfer catalyst on the reaction were studied in etherification,and the influence of purification methods and salt formation was investigated.Atomoxetine hydrochloride was prepared by reaction of 3-methylamino-1-phenylpropanol with 1-fluoro-2-methylbenzene in DMSO/KOH and salt formation, with the total yield of 68.1％, and purity of 99.5％.