Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsComparing Strattera vs. AdderallHow Do Strattera and Adderall Work?How to TakeSafety WarningsSide EffectsCostFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Comparing Strattera vs. Adderall
How Do Strattera and Adderall Work?
How to Take
Safety Warnings
Side Effects
Cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Strattera (atomoxetine)and Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) are prescription medicines used to treatattention 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.
Getty Images / Courtney Hale
Boxed WarningsSome people have thoughts about suicide while taking Strattera. Pay attention to changes in your or your child’s mood, behavior, or symptoms. Discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider.Adderall has a high potential for abuse. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had problems withdrugoralcohol abuse. Misusing Adderall can cause sudden death and serious heart-related problems.
Boxed Warnings
Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Strattera. Pay attention to changes in your or your child’s mood, behavior, or symptoms. Discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider.Adderall has a high potential for abuse. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had problems withdrugoralcohol abuse. Misusing Adderall can cause sudden death and serious heart-related problems.
Strattera is a prescription medication that selectively inhibits the reuptake (reabsorption) ofnorepinephrineto 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.
AdderallUsed for the treatment of ADHD; also treats narcolepsyAvailable generically as dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, and under the brand name Adderall or Adderall XR (long-acting formulation)Available in 5 mg, 7.5mg. 10 mg. 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tabletsAdderall XR: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mgHighly effective treatment but commonly preferred for older individualsHigher risk for abuse and dependenceStratteraUsed for the treatment of ADHDAvailable generically as atomoxetine, and under the brand name StratteraAvailable in 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, or 100 mg capsuleSecond-line option for those who do not tolerate stimulants or have concerns about abuseNo association with abuse or dependence
AdderallUsed for the treatment of ADHD; also treats narcolepsyAvailable generically as dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, and under the brand name Adderall or Adderall XR (long-acting formulation)Available in 5 mg, 7.5mg. 10 mg. 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tabletsAdderall XR: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mgHighly effective treatment but commonly preferred for older individualsHigher risk for abuse and dependence
Used for the treatment of ADHD; also treats narcolepsy
Available generically as dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, and under the brand name Adderall or Adderall XR (long-acting formulation)
Available in 5 mg, 7.5mg. 10 mg. 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets
Adderall XR: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg
Highly effective treatment but commonly preferred for older individuals
Higher risk for abuse and dependence
StratteraUsed for the treatment of ADHDAvailable generically as atomoxetine, and under the brand name StratteraAvailable in 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, or 100 mg capsuleSecond-line option for those who do not tolerate stimulants or have concerns about abuseNo association with abuse or dependence
Used for the treatment of ADHD
Available generically as atomoxetine, and under the brand name Strattera
Available in 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, or 100 mg capsule
Second-line option for those who do not tolerate stimulants or have concerns about abuse
No association with abuse or dependence
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 anddopaminewhile 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:
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.
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 anysudden or severe changes to their healthcare provider immediately.
Strattera may also cause severe liver injury, new or worseningpsychosis, aggressive behavior, anderections lasting more than four hours.
Avoid Strattera if you have used amonoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitorin 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 causestroke,heart attack, and sudden death in those withhigh 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 ofdepression, mental illness, orbipolar 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.
The following listed side effects are more common with using Strattera and Adderall.
StratteraAbdominal painAnorexiaBurning or tingling sensationConstipationDecreasedlibidoDizzinessDry mouthErectileor Ejaculatory dysfunctionExcessive sweatingFatigueHeadacheHot flashesIncreased blood pressure or heart rateInsomniaIrritabilityMenstrual painMood swingsNauseaPalpitationsRashRigorsSleep disordersSleepinessTremorUpset stomachUrinary issuesVomitingWeight lossAdderallAbdominal painAgitationAnorexiaAnxietyConstipationDiarrheaDizzinessDry mouthDyspepsiaExcessive sweatingFeverHeadacheImpotenceIncreased blood pressure or heart rateInfectionInsomniaLibido changesLight sensitivityMenstrual painMood swingsNauseaNervousnessPalpitationsRestlessnessSleepinessSpeech disturbanceTicexacerbationTooth disorderTrouble breathingVisual disturbanceVomitingWeight loss
StratteraAbdominal painAnorexiaBurning or tingling sensationConstipationDecreasedlibidoDizzinessDry mouthErectileor Ejaculatory dysfunctionExcessive sweatingFatigueHeadacheHot flashesIncreased blood pressure or heart rateInsomniaIrritabilityMenstrual painMood swingsNauseaPalpitationsRashRigorsSleep disordersSleepinessTremorUpset stomachUrinary issuesVomitingWeight loss
Abdominal pain
Anorexia
Burning or tingling sensation
Constipation
Decreasedlibido
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Erectileor Ejaculatory dysfunction
Excessive sweating
Fatigue
Headache
Hot flashes
Increased blood pressure or heart rate
Insomnia
Irritability
Menstrual pain
Mood swings
Nausea
Palpitations
Rash
Rigors
Sleep disorders
Sleepiness
Tremor
Upset stomach
Urinary issues
Vomiting
Weight loss
AdderallAbdominal painAgitationAnorexiaAnxietyConstipationDiarrheaDizzinessDry mouthDyspepsiaExcessive sweatingFeverHeadacheImpotenceIncreased blood pressure or heart rateInfectionInsomniaLibido changesLight sensitivityMenstrual painMood swingsNauseaNervousnessPalpitationsRestlessnessSleepinessSpeech disturbanceTicexacerbationTooth disorderTrouble breathingVisual disturbanceVomitingWeight loss
Agitation
Anxiety
Diarrhea
Dyspepsia
Fever
Impotence
Infection
Libido changes
Light sensitivity
Nervousness
Restlessness
Speech disturbance
Ticexacerbation
Tooth disorder
Trouble breathing
Visual disturbance
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.
StratteraAggressive behaviorAllergic reactionsAngioedemaDepressionErections lasting longer than four hoursHeart attacksHigh blood pressureIncreased heart rateLiver failureLow blood pressure upon standingManiaPsychosisQT prolongationRaynaud phenomenonRhabdomyolysisSeizuresStrokeSuicidal thoughtsSyncopeAdderallAbuse or dependencyAggressive behaviorAllergic reactionsBlood circulation disordersErections lasting longer than four hoursGrowth suppression in childrenHeart attackHeart diseaseHigh blood pressureManiaPsychosisRaynaud phenomenonRhabdomyolysisSeizuresStevens-Johnson syndromeStrokeSudden deathToxic epidermal necrolysisWithdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped
StratteraAggressive behaviorAllergic reactionsAngioedemaDepressionErections lasting longer than four hoursHeart attacksHigh blood pressureIncreased heart rateLiver failureLow blood pressure upon standingManiaPsychosisQT prolongationRaynaud phenomenonRhabdomyolysisSeizuresStrokeSuicidal thoughtsSyncope
Aggressive behavior
Allergic reactions
Angioedema
Depression
Erections lasting longer than four hours
Heart attacks
High blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Liver failure
Low blood pressure upon standing
Mania
Psychosis
QT prolongation
Raynaud phenomenon
Rhabdomyolysis
Seizures
Stroke
Suicidal thoughts
Syncope
AdderallAbuse or dependencyAggressive behaviorAllergic reactionsBlood circulation disordersErections lasting longer than four hoursGrowth suppression in childrenHeart attackHeart diseaseHigh blood pressureManiaPsychosisRaynaud phenomenonRhabdomyolysisSeizuresStevens-Johnson syndromeStrokeSudden deathToxic epidermal necrolysisWithdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped
Abuse or dependency
Blood circulation disorders
Growth suppression in children
Heart attack
Heart disease
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Sudden death
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped
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.
Mydayis vs. Adderall: Similarities and Differences
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.
Frequently Asked QuestionsThere are various treatment options for ADHD, including medication,behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. In addition, lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time, increasing physical activity, getting better sleep with the help of supplements or weighted blankets, consuming nutritious meals, and working with a behavioral healthcare provider on time management skills can also be effective.Behavioral therapy options for ADHD include behavior modification, parent training, social skills training, school interventions, and organizational skills training for older children.Other alternative treatments can also be considered. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.For individuals with ADHD, stimulants such as Adderall are often the first recommended treatment option due to their high effectiveness.Strattera may be considered as an alternative if stimulants do not work for you.It may take at least four weeks for your healthcare provider to assess your response to Strattera. If no progress is seen after this time, your dosage may be increased.If Strattera is ineffective, your healthcare provider may suggest trying a different non-stimulant medication or incorporating behavioral therapy. Research has shown that behavioral therapy combined with medication can have positive effects, especially for preadolescent children with ADHD.
There are various treatment options for ADHD, including medication,behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. In addition, lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time, increasing physical activity, getting better sleep with the help of supplements or weighted blankets, consuming nutritious meals, and working with a behavioral healthcare provider on time management skills can also be effective.Behavioral therapy options for ADHD include behavior modification, parent training, social skills training, school interventions, and organizational skills training for older children.Other alternative treatments can also be considered. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.
There are various treatment options for ADHD, including medication,behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. In addition, lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time, increasing physical activity, getting better sleep with the help of supplements or weighted blankets, consuming nutritious meals, and working with a behavioral healthcare provider on time management skills can also be effective.
Behavioral therapy options for ADHD include behavior modification, parent training, social skills training, school interventions, and organizational skills training for older children.
Other alternative treatments can also be considered. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.
For individuals with ADHD, stimulants such as Adderall are often the first recommended treatment option due to their high effectiveness.Strattera may be considered as an alternative if stimulants do not work for you.It may take at least four weeks for your healthcare provider to assess your response to Strattera. If no progress is seen after this time, your dosage may be increased.If Strattera is ineffective, your healthcare provider may suggest trying a different non-stimulant medication or incorporating behavioral therapy. Research has shown that behavioral therapy combined with medication can have positive effects, especially for preadolescent children with ADHD.
For individuals with ADHD, stimulants such as Adderall are often the first recommended treatment option due to their high effectiveness.Strattera may be considered as an alternative if stimulants do not work for you.
It may take at least four weeks for your healthcare provider to assess your response to Strattera. If no progress is seen after this time, your dosage may be increased.
If Strattera is ineffective, your healthcare provider may suggest trying a different non-stimulant medication or incorporating behavioral therapy. Research has shown that behavioral therapy combined with medication can have positive effects, especially for preadolescent children with ADHD.
9 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.DailyMed.Adderall label.DailyMed.Strattera label.Wolraich ML, Hagan JF Jr, Allan C, et al.Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents.Pediatrics. 2019;144(4):e20192528. doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528.Fu D, Wu DD, Guo HL, et al.The mechanism, clinical efficacy, safety, and dosage regimen of atomoxetine for ADHD therapy in children: a narrative review.Front Psychiatry. 2022;12:780921. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.780921Gibson AP, Bettinger TL, Patel NC, Crismon ML.Atomoxetine versus stimulants for treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Ann Pharmacother. 2006;40(6):1134-1142. doi:10.1345/aph.1G582Mariani JJ, Levin FR.Treatment strategies for co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders.Am J Addict. 2007;16 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):45-54; quiz 55-6. doi:10.1080/10550490601082783.DailyMed.Adderall XR label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment of ADHD.
9 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.DailyMed.Adderall label.DailyMed.Strattera label.Wolraich ML, Hagan JF Jr, Allan C, et al.Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents.Pediatrics. 2019;144(4):e20192528. doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528.Fu D, Wu DD, Guo HL, et al.The mechanism, clinical efficacy, safety, and dosage regimen of atomoxetine for ADHD therapy in children: a narrative review.Front Psychiatry. 2022;12:780921. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.780921Gibson AP, Bettinger TL, Patel NC, Crismon ML.Atomoxetine versus stimulants for treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Ann Pharmacother. 2006;40(6):1134-1142. doi:10.1345/aph.1G582Mariani JJ, Levin FR.Treatment strategies for co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders.Am J Addict. 2007;16 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):45-54; quiz 55-6. doi:10.1080/10550490601082783.DailyMed.Adderall XR label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment of ADHD.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
DailyMed.Adderall label.DailyMed.Strattera label.Wolraich ML, Hagan JF Jr, Allan C, et al.Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents.Pediatrics. 2019;144(4):e20192528. doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528.Fu D, Wu DD, Guo HL, et al.The mechanism, clinical efficacy, safety, and dosage regimen of atomoxetine for ADHD therapy in children: a narrative review.Front Psychiatry. 2022;12:780921. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.780921Gibson AP, Bettinger TL, Patel NC, Crismon ML.Atomoxetine versus stimulants for treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Ann Pharmacother. 2006;40(6):1134-1142. doi:10.1345/aph.1G582Mariani JJ, Levin FR.Treatment strategies for co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders.Am J Addict. 2007;16 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):45-54; quiz 55-6. doi:10.1080/10550490601082783.DailyMed.Adderall XR label.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment of ADHD.
DailyMed.Adderall label.
DailyMed.Strattera label.
Wolraich ML, Hagan JF Jr, Allan C, et al.Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents.Pediatrics. 2019;144(4):e20192528. doi:10.1542/peds.2019-2528.
Fu D, Wu DD, Guo HL, et al.The mechanism, clinical efficacy, safety, and dosage regimen of atomoxetine for ADHD therapy in children: a narrative review.Front Psychiatry. 2022;12:780921. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.780921
Gibson AP, Bettinger TL, Patel NC, Crismon ML.Atomoxetine versus stimulants for treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Ann Pharmacother. 2006;40(6):1134-1142. doi:10.1345/aph.1G582
Mariani JJ, Levin FR.Treatment strategies for co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders.Am J Addict. 2007;16 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):45-54; quiz 55-6. doi:10.1080/10550490601082783.
DailyMed.Adderall XR label.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment of ADHD.
Meet Our Medical Expert Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit
What is your feedback?
