Strattera (atomoxetine) and Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) are medications prescribed to help manage symptoms of ADHD. When you start comparing ADHD medications, you’ll probably wonder about the differences between Strattera and Adderall. Both drugs are FDA-approved to treat classic ADHD symptoms like trouble focusing, staying organized, or managing impulses. They share a few traits, but Strattera and Adderall work in different ways, act at different speeds, and have distinct side-effect profiles.
It’s important to learn how each medication works and to know what to expect if you start taking one of them to treat ADHD. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what drug might best fit your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. Keep reading for more on Strattera vs. Adderall.
Similarities Between Strattera and Adderall
While Strattera and Adderall work in different ways, they share key goals that can help people with ADHD manage symptoms and improve daily functioning
Used for ADHD treatment
To treat ADHD, Strattera and Adderall can be prescribed for kids, teens, and adults alike. If you struggle to sit still, stay organized, or finish tasks, these meds might help you stay calm and think more clearly.
Role in improving attention and focus
ADHD medications can help reduce distractions, allowing you to focus better, stay on task, and complete tasks you start. The goal is to allow you to feel more in control of your daily life, responsibilities, and relationships.
Both of these ADHD medications should help you:
- Pay attention in class or at work
- Finish what you start
- Feel less scattered
- Maintain mental bandwidth
Need for ongoing monitoring and dosage adjustments
Getting the dose right can take some trial and error. Your doctor will regularly touch base early on and can tweak your prescription to balance a drug’s benefits with its side effects. You may need a few adjustments or even to switch medications before determining what works best.
Always let your doctor know if your mood, sleep, or appetite shift dramatically after you take an ADHD drug. Sharing feedback helps them fine-tune your treatment plan and reduce unwanted side effects.
Gastrointestinal and sleep-related side effects
Drugs like Strattera and Adderall can upset your stomach and sleep schedule. Nausea, mild stomach pain, and a decrease in appetite are common, and some people may experience weight loss with this medication. If you’re lying awake or waking up frequently at night, let your doctor know so they can adjust the timing or dosage of your medication or consider changing your prescription.
Differences Between Strattera and Adderall
While they share some features, it’s the differences between Strattera and Adderall that can really influence which drug is a better match for your symptoms and needs.
Drug type
One major difference comes down to drug type. Strattera is a non-stimulant. It works differently from stimulants like Adderall, which act faster and directly on dopamine and norepinephrine. Because it’s a stimulant, Adderall carries a higher risk of dependence and might cause uncomfortable side effects for some people.
Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), whereas Adderall is a blend of amphetamine salts. If you have a history of heart problems or substance misuse, or you’ve tried other stimulants in the past without successful results, your doctor might recommend a non-stimulant ADHD medication like Strattera.
On-set and duration
When you’re struggling and looking for relief, it can be worth thinking about how fast a drug will start working. Strattera must be taken consistently for several weeks so it can build up in your system. Once you’re at the optimal dosage, Strattera’s effects can last for 24 hours. Adderall works quickly—you may notice its effects within 30 minutes to an hour.
How it works
Since they belong to different classes of drugs, it makes sense that Strattera and Adderall work differently. Strattera gradually offers relief and can provide a steady effect that builds over time. It works by adjusting levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter associated with attention, emotional regulation, and response time, while dopamine is often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone.
Adderall works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, thereby enhancing motivation, focus, and reward-seeking behavior. The dopamine stimulation Adderall offers can be energizing, which may be beneficial if ADHD causes you to feel flat or unmotivated.
Effectiveness
According to research, both Adderall and Strattera can effectively reduce ADHD symptoms. However, stimulants like Adderall might have a higher response rate. Some research shows that up to 70% of people report an improvement in symptoms when taking stimulants to treat ADHD. In contrast, about 60% respond positively to Strattera. To be effective, the “right” medication should balance both benefits and side effects.
“The effectiveness of Strattera versus adderall varies between different patients. Because Strattera is not a stimulant medication, it takes time to notice its effectiveness while also titrating it slowly to ensure the patient can tolerate it, which may take a few weeks to several months. Effectiveness of Adderall can typically be evaluated fairly quickly as the stimulant medication has a faster onset of action.”
- Talkspace psychiatric provider, Svetlana Stuck, PA-C
Side effect profile
Any drug you take has the potential to cause unwanted side effects. Knowing about them ensures you can find the most effective medication. The side effects of Strattera vs. Adderall often overlap, but there are subtle differences as well.
According to research, Strattera is likely to cause:
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Mild nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Changes in appetite (typically loss of appetite)
According to research, Adderall is likely to cause:
- Noticeable mood highs and lows
- Difficulty sleeping
- Jitteriness or nervousness
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Increased blood pressure
- Loss of appetite
Abuse potential
Because Adderall is classified as a controlled substance, there’s concern for misuse and abuse outside of your treatment plan, which can lead to Adderall causing depression. Strattera is not habit-forming, which can make it a safer option, especially if you have a personal or family history of substance misuse, or you’re concerned about abuse. Discuss with your doctor the safest and most effective option for you.
Dosing
Strattera is typically taken once or twice daily. You can take it with or without food, and you can’t skip doses. However, your provider will work with you to determine the best does for you.
- Strattera for adults: The starting dose is generally 40 mg daily, which can be increased to a target dose of up to 80 mg per day. The maximum dose is 100 mg if you’re not seeing results after several weeks.
- Strattera for children: Dosage depends on weight and can range from 0.5 mg to 1.2 mg per kg of body weight per day. Children weighing over 154 pounds can use adult dosing.
Adderall can be taken as needed, which is a plus if you don’t want to use a drug regularly. For example, you might only take it on workdays or when you need to focus on a specific task. Extended-release forms are available and might help prevent midday crashes. However, this version will also stay in your system longer, which can potentially affect your appetite and sleep.
- Adderall IR: The starting dose is typically 5 mg once or twice daily; your doctor can increase it to 40 mg per day if necessary.
- Adderall XR: The Adderall XR standard adult dose is 20 mg once daily in the morning.
- Adderall for children: The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg, with possible weekly increases as needed and directed by a doctor.
Choosing Between Strattera vs. Adderall
Understanding the similarities and differences between Strattera and Adderall is the first step in deciding which drug might work best for you. There are other ways to choose, too, like considering your doctor’s recommendations and your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Doctor’s recommendations
Your doctor plays a crucial role in your treatment plan. Together, you’ll look at your complete physical and emotional health history. You must consider more than just your ADHD symptoms when you’re exploring medications. You should also evaluate your heart health, mood patterns, any reactions you’ve had to previous drugs or treatments, and concerns you have about side effects or the possibility of misuse.
Discussing the differences between Strattera and Adderall with your doctor is recommended if you’re curious or concerned about your treatment plan.
Patient preferences and lifestyle
Personal preference and lifestyle can help you decide on a drug. Be open and honest about what your goals are for treatment, what’s worked or not in the past, and what you’re struggling with most right now.
For example, it helps if they know that your job requires focus in the morning but not so much after lunch, or if you prefer a steady state rather than an on-and-off effect. You should also mention if you’re worried about taking a controlled substance or if you like or dislike the idea of having to take something every day.
Clinical considerations
If you have a history of substance misuse or a heart condition, Strattera might be the better choice. Since it’s a stimulant, Adderall may be less suitable if you have anxiety or trouble sleeping.
“There are various factors that may determine whether one medication is more appropriate than the other. Some of these factors include the patient’s ability to tolerate a stimulant, a history of dependence, other comorbid conditions, or the preference to take medication as needed as opposed to daily.”
- Talkspace psychiatric provider, Svetlana Stuck, PA-C
FAQs About Strattera vs Adderall
Is Strattera more effective than Adderall?
While Adderall might have a higher response rate for your symptoms, that doesn’t mean it’s “better.” If you choose Strattera over Adderall, you’re still getting top-of-the-line ADHD treatment. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to treating symptoms.
Why did I get prescribed Strattera instead of Adderall?
There are many possible reasons you might get prescribed Strattera as an alternative to Adderall. If you’ve struggled with stimulants in the past, your doctor might think the more steady and consistent coverage Strattera offers can better suit your needs. Your health profile might also make Strattera a safer prescription.
Multiple studies show that both non-stimulants like Strattera and drugs like Adderall are evidence-backed, effective ADHD treatment options. You can talk to your healthcare provider if you want them to explain why one drug was prescribed over the other.
Does Strattera give you energy like Adderall?
You might feel less scattered and more focused when taking Strattera, but that doesn't necessarily mean you’ll feel more energized, like you would if you take a stimulant like Adderall. Strattera can be worth a try if you want predictable focus but don’t want to deal with the ups and downs or “crashes” of a stimulant.
Get Professional Guidance with a Prescription
Deciding on a drug to treat your ADHD symptoms is a deeply personal process. Navigating with the help of a healthcare provider or mental health professional who understands your needs and treatment goals is the best approach. Together, you can explore the pros and cons of each drug. If you’ve tried one of these medications but aren’t getting the results you want, don’t be afraid to let your doctor know. Trying different medications is common, and you shouldn’t be afraid to explore your options.
Weighing the side effects of Strattera and Adderall will help you personalize your treatment plan, allowing you to find what works best for your symptoms, brain, and lifestyle. Remember, you don’t have to take on your ADHD treatment alone. If you’re ready to find help, Talkspace is here to connect you with an online psychiatrist who will listen to you, answer all your questions, and help you find the best treatment for your needs.
Wondering how to get medication for ADHD? Talk to a Talkspace provider to get a mental health assessment, and if appropriate, a prescription for Strattera online.
Sources:
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