Strattera vs. Adderall for ADHD: Differences and Similarities (2024)

Strattera (atomoxetine) and Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) are prescription medicines used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Although both are effective for treating ADHD, Strattera and Adderall differ in how they work in the body, their associated side effects, their potential for dependency, and more.

Adderall is effective for ADHD but is often prescribed to older individuals due to its potential side effects. Strattera is an alternative for those who can't tolerate stimulants or have a history of substance abuse.

This article compares Strattera and Adderall. It looks at their uses, mechanisms of action, dosages, how they are administered, formulations, and their safety and efficacy profile.

Comparing Strattera vs. Adderall

Strattera is a prescription medication that selectively inhibits the reuptake (reabsorption) of norepinephrine to enhance attention and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity in ADHD. It is approved for use in adults and children 6 and older.

It is advised to use Strattera as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD that may involve counseling or other therapies.

Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication used to improve attention and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity in people diagnosed with ADHD. Like Strattera, it is approved for use in adults and children 6 and older.

Adderall should be part of a comprehensive treatment program, including therapy or counseling. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder.

Adderall is available in a short-acting and long-acting formulation (Adderall XR). Longer-acting formulations are preferred for children who would otherwise need an additional dose during the day at school to help maintain steady symptom control.

How Do Strattera and Adderall Work?

The specific way in which Strattera helps treat ADHD is not fully understood. However, it is believed to selectively prevent the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain. This increases levels of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is a chemical messenger that regulates several functions, including attention, cognitive function, and stress.

Similarly, the exact mechanism of action for Adderall is also unknown, but it is known to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine while stimulating central nervous system activity.

Strattera vs. Adderall: How Effective Are They?

Stimulants like Adderall are highly effective for ADHD and are recommended first-line. However, they are often limited to use in older individuals because of their side effect profile, including risk for abuse.

Strattera is not as effective. In cases where stimulants are not working after trying two or three different agents or when families express concern about abuse, Strattera may be used as an alternative.

How to Take Strattera vs. Adderall

To treat ADHD, your healthcare provider may start with a daily dose of 40 milligrams of Strattera in the morning. This can be increased if needed but should not exceed 100 milligrams daily.

For the best results, take Strattera at the same time each day with a full glass of water. You can also take it twice daily, in the morning and late afternoon. You can take it with or without food, but swallow the capsule whole. Breaking, chewing, opening, or crushing the tablets may cause irritation.

Dosing for children will depend on body weight. Their pediatrician will advise on the appropriate dosing schedule for Strattera.

Dosage recommendations for Adderall depend on age and condition:

• For children aged 3 to 5 with ADHD: A starting dose of 2.5 milligrams is recommended, with weekly increases (by 2.5 milligrams) if needed.
• For people 6 and older: A starting dose of 5 milligrams once or twice a day is recommended, with weekly increases up to 40 milligrams daily.
• For narcolepsy, the recommended dosage range is 5 to 60 milligrams daily.

Take Adderall in the morning, with additional doses every four to six hours, and avoid taking it late in the evening to prevent sleep problems.

When starting or switching to Adderall XR, your healthcare provider may start with 10 milligrams (children and adolescents) or 20 milligrams (adults) once daily and adjust the dosage weekly as needed. You can take the capsules whole or sprinkle its contents on applesauce, but it should be consumed immediately.

Use all medicine as directed on your prescription label and read all medication guides

Abuse Potential Risk

Strattera is not a habit-forming medication.

Adderall, on the other hand, is a Schedule II controlled substance due to the potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Never share or sell this medication and keep it in a secure location to prevent others from accessing it. Misuse of Adderall can be dangerous and even deadly, so if you or someone you know experiences an overdose or takes too much of the medication, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Tell your healthcare provider if you, or anyone in your family, have had problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

Safety Warnings

Strattera

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Strattera. Stay alert to changes in mood or symptoms, especially in children and teenagers, particularly early on in treatment or during dose adjustments.Report any sudden or severe changes to their healthcare provider immediately.

Strattera may also cause severe liver injury, new or worsening psychosis, aggressive behavior, and erections lasting more than four hours.

Avoid Strattera if you have used a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor in the past 14 days.

Strattera may lead to stroke, heart attack, or sudden death in those with high blood pressure or heart issues.

Use caution when taking new medications or operating machinery.

Adderall

Adderall is a habit-forming medication.Tell your healthcare provider if you have had problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

Adderall may cause stroke, heart attack, and sudden death in those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or a heart defect. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, or fainting.

Do not use Adderall if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days.

Adderall may cause unusual thoughts or behavior especially if you have a history of depression, mental illness, or bipolar disorder. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you start seeing or believing things that are not real.

Adderall may cause numbness, pain, or discoloration in your fingers or toes. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you have unexplained wounds on your fingers or toes.

Adderall can cause appetite loss, which can be concerning in children because it may lead to decreased growth.

Side Effects

The following listed side effects are more common with using Strattera and Adderall.

Severe Side Effects

The following side effects of Strattera and Adderall can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you notice the emergence or worsening of any of these side effects.

How Much Do Strattera and Adderall Cost?

Your insurance plan determines the cost of your medication. Whether you are prescribed a brand-name or generic medication will also affect how much you spend. Generally, brand-name drugs are more expensive than their generic counterparts. However, there is good news, as both Adderall and Strattera have generic options.

If cost is a concern, ask your healthcare provider about using the generic version instead.

Summary

ADHD can be treated with different medications, such as Strattera and Adderall. Both medications have their unique benefits and drawbacks.

Based on research, Adderall is generally more effective than Strattera for treating ADHD symptoms. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly children and adolescents or those who may be unable to tolerate side effects.

On the other hand, Strattera can be an alternative for those who do not respond well to stimulants or those with a history of substance abuse. These two medications differ in how they work in the body, their associated side effects, and their potential for dependency.

When deciding which medication to take, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They will consider your age, medical history, and current medication use to determine the best treatment for your specific needs.