*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
While Strattera and Adderall are both medications for treating ADHD, they differ in many ways. Strattera is a non-stimulant medication, while Adderall is a stimulant that brings a higher risk of dependence. Their dosages, uses, and side effects also vary.
If you’re considering Strattera or Adderall, or want to discuss your current prescription with a provider, you will be limited in your options. Klarity ADHD and Circle Medical are two online psychiatry platforms that can and will prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances. They can also prescribe non-stimulant medication, if needed. These platforms can connect you with a provider quickly and offer assessments and prescription consultation.
Boxed Warning: Atomoxetine (Strattera) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
Boxed Warning: Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts (Adderall) - Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Adderall has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Amphetamines, an active ingredient in Adderall, have a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication, serious heart conditions, and even sudden death.
Adderall is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same day appointments.
What Is Strattera?
Strattera, or generic atomoxetine, is an FDA-approved non-stimulant medication for ADHD. Strattera is part of the selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) medication class, which work by increasing norepinephrine levels, a naturally occurring chemical in the brain.1,2,3 These changes can help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in children and adults.
Prescribers may consider Strattera for individuals with histories of substance use, as this medication does not carry the same risk of addiction as Adderall.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is an FDA-approved central nervous system medication for ADHD that works by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This mechanism increases the release of these neurotransmitters, helping the body manage symptoms of ADHD.
Adderall also comes as generic amphetamine salts/dextroamphetamine as immediate or extended-release formulations. Immediate-release Adderall is also FDA-approved for treating narcolepsy, a type of sleep disorder.4,5,6
Strattera Vs. Adderall: What Is the Difference?
While both medications can help manage ADHD, Strattera and Adderall differ significantly. For example, Strattera is not a stimulant like Adderall and works differently in the brain. Both medications have their place in therapy but are not interchangeable due to their distinct mechanisms and formulas.
The table below summarizes the key differences between Strattera versus Adderall:1,2,3,4,5,6,7
| Key Components | Strattera | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| What is the generic name? | Atomoxetine | Amphetamine salt/dextroamphetamine |
| What forms does it come in? | Tablet | Tablet (immediate release) Capsule (extended-release) |
| What are the typical dosages? | Children and adolescents up to 70 kg: 0.5 to 1.4 mg/kg daily Children and adolescents over 70 kg and adults: 40 to 100 mg daily | ADHD (immediate release): Children (3 to 5 years old): 2.5 mg daily, increased dosage until an optimal response is obtained Children (6 years and older): 5 to 10 mg daily, only in rare cases will it be necessary to exceed 40 mg/day Extended-release formulation: Children (ages 6-12): 10 to 30 mg/day Adolescents (ages 13-17): 10 to 20 mg/day Adults: 10 to 20 mg/day |
| Who is approved to take it? | Adults and children 6 years and older | Extended-release: Children 6 years and older, and adults |
| Stimulant or nonstimulant? | Nonstimulant | Stimulant |
Uses in Treatment
Strattera and Adderall are both FDA-approved for treating ADHD symptoms, meaning the FDA has reviewed extensive research on their safety and efficacy in treatment. However, prescribers can also recommend these medications for off-label uses.
Off-label refers to physicians choosing a medication for purposes other than FDA-approved use. A doctor will explain the risks and benefits of off-label prescriptions to a patient before recommending use.
The table below compares the conditions treated with Adderall or Strattera: 1,2,4,5,8,9,10
| Condition | Strattera | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| ADHD | FDA-approved | FDA-approved |
| Narcolepsy | No | FDA-approved |
| Orthostatic hypotension | Off label | No |
| Eating disorders | Off label | No |
| Weight management | No | Off label |
Strattera & Adderall Dosages
Dosages can vary depending on personal factors like current medical history and age. Strattera is dosed based on weight for children under 70kg, while prescribers recommend 40 to 100 mg for those over 70kg and adults. For Adderall, a typical dose is five to 10 mg daily, and dosages only exceed 40 mg in rare cases.
Strattera comes in capsules with seven different strengths. The right strength for an individual depends on their diagnosis, age, and weight. Strattera only comes as an immediate-release tablet. Strattera may take one or two weeks before patients see the full effects.
Adderall comes in different strengths, allowing for a more tailored treatment. Immediate-release formulations come as tablets, while extended-release formulations are capsules. The strength and type of Adderall you receive depends on the condition treated and other personal factors, such as age.
Below are the differences between Strattera and Adderall forms and strengths:4,5,6,7
Strattera
- 10 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 18 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 25 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 40 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 60 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 80 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
- 100 milligrams (mg) oral capsule
Adderall
- Immediate-release oral tablets: 5 milligrams (mg), 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg
- Extended-release oral capsules: 5 milligrams (mg), 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg
*Take these medications as prescribed. Follow instructions to avoid unintended side effects or increasing the risk of dependence or addiction to Adderall. Do not double up on dosages if you miss one. Adderall tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. Extended-release capsules should not be opened.
Get Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
Side Effects of Strattera & Adderall
Another difference between Adderall and Strattera is the possible side effects. All medications have the potential for adverse effects, many of which are mild and tolerable. However, some can be serious and require medical intervention.
The table below compares the possible side effects of Strattera and Adderall:*1,2,3,4,5,6
| Side Effects | Strattera | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| Dry mouth | Yes | Yes |
| Constipation | Yes | Yes |
| Nausea | Yes | Yes |
| Vomiting | Yes | No |
| Decreased appetite | Yes | Yes |
| Dizziness | Yes | No |
| Erectile dysfunction | Yes | Yes |
| Urinary hesitation | Yes | No |
| Drowsiness | Yes | No |
| Fast heart rate | No | Yes |
*All medications, including Strattera and Adderall, have a risk of mild and severe side effects. The above is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and are effects commonly reported by patients (at least 5%). You should discuss with your prescriber and pharmacist any potential side effects from Strattera or Adderall.
Strattera Vs. Adderall: Warnings & Precautions
Strattera and Adderall come with warnings and precautions. Complications may arise when taking either medication but are not guaranteed. Doctors consider the risks and benefits before prescribing any medication to a patient.
Risks to consider when taking Strattera and Adderall include:1,2,4,5
- Interactions with alcohol: Consuming alcohol while on these medications may cause unintended side effects.
- Allergic reactions: As with all medications, a person can be allergic to Strattera or Adderall. Some symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face or tongue. You must seek immediate medical care if any symptoms occur.
- Visual disturbances: People on Adderall or Strattera may experience blurred vision.
- Tics: Adderall may worsen motor and phonic tics and Tourette’s syndrome.
- Suicidal ideation: Prescribers should monitor patients for suicidality and unusual changes in behavior when taking Strattera and Adderall.
- Severe cardiovascular events: Doctors should assess those with a history of heart conditions, as Strattera and Adderall treatment may result in sudden death, stroke, and heart attacks.
- Effects on blood pressure: Both medications can increase blood pressure and heart rates, sometimes causing fainting or dizziness upon standing.
- Mood changes: Adderall and Strattera can cause behavioral and mood changes. They both can worsen bipolar disorder, cause aggressive behavior, and trigger episodes of psychosis or mania.
- Effects on growth: Pediatricians should monitor height and weight in children as these two medications may slow growth.
- Seizures: Medications like Adderall and Strattera may lower the threshold for seizures, meaning someone with a history of seizures (rarely those with no history of seizures) is more likely to have seizures.
- Serotonin syndrome: Using Adderall and Strattera alongside another medication that increases serotonin may cause life-threatening serotonin syndrome, resulting in confusion, hallucinations, vomiting, and stiffness that require medical intervention.
- Priapism: Both Strattera and Adderall may cause prolonged and painful erections lasting more than four hours.
- Circulation problems: Adderall can lead to vascular problems, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms generally improve after reducing the dose or stopping the medication. The risk of these complications is lower when taking Strattera.
- Urinary hesitation: Strattera and Adderall may lead to urinary problems, such as starting or maintaining the ability to pee.
Potential Drug Interactions With Strattera & Adderall
As with all medications, drug interactions can occur with Strattera and Adderall. Both medications can cause serious side effects that require medical attention when combined with other substances.
Medications and substances that have harmful interactions with Strattera and Adderall include:1,2,4,5
| Complicating Interactions | Strattera | Adderall |
|---|---|---|
| Tricyclic antidepressants | X | |
| MAOIs | X | X |
| Antihypertensive and pressor (blood pressure medications) | X | X |
| Albuterol | X | X |
| CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g. paroxetine, fluoxetine, and quinidine) | X | X |
| SSRIs | X (some SSRIs, like fluoxetine and paroxetine) | X |
| SNRIs | X | |
| Drugs that increases serotonin (e.g. fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, buspirone) | X | |
| Alpha and beta blockers | X |
*Disclaimer: Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Strattera and Adderall can change how these medications work in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
How Much Do Strattera & Adderall Cost?
Generally, brand-name medications are more expensive than their generic counterparts. Strattera and Adderall have generic options, and costs can differ based on whether you use insurance or pay cash. For example, an Adderall coupon found on the manufacturer’s website can help with costs, especially when paying out of pocket. Every insurance plan has different copays and premiums, so consult your doctor or insurance agency if treatment costs concern you.
Get Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta.
Strattera Vs. Adderall: Which One Is Right for Me?
Both Strattera and Adderall have their place in treating ADHD symptoms. No two therapies are alike, and what may be appropriate for one individual may not be for another. What medication you should take depends on many factors a doctor will consider.
If you face difficulties seeing a doctor in person, you may need to consider online psychiatry services. A doctor will assess potential side effects and your history with other medications, weighing the risks and benefits of each pharmaceutical option.
How to Get a Prescription for Strattera & Adderall
Only licensed healthcare professionals, such as doctors or psychiatrists, can prescribe medications like Strattera and Adderall. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants may also prescribe Strattera, partly because Strattera has a smaller potential for abuse and is a less restricted medication than Adderall.
If you have not been diagnosed with ADHD, a doctor will assess you for symptoms before considering medication. Your doctor will then consider your lifestyle, current medications, and health condition before deciding whether Strattera or Adderall best suits your needs. Your doctor will likely schedule frequent checkups to observe how the medication affects you.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Strattera & Adderall
Communicate openly and honestly with your doctor when taking Strattera or Adderall. You should come to your appointment prepared with questions or concerns to ensure you know what to expect from treatment. Address your concerns with your doctor, as minor issues or adverse effects could reveal issues with your treatment.
Questions to ask your prescriber about Strattera and Adderall include:
- Can I take Strattera or Adderall with my other medications?
- Will my insurance cover Strattera or Adderall?
- Which one has the best results as a treatment for ADHD?
- Does my medical history increase my risk of side effects?
- How long can I expect side effects to last?
- How often should I see you for checkups while taking Strattera or Adderall?
- What should I do if I am unsure whether ADHD medications are right for me?
- How long after I start the medication will I start to see results?
- Is it safe to take Adderall with Xanax or other sedative medications?
- How does Adderall compare to Desoxyn and other stimulant medications?
In My Experience
In my experience, Strattera and Adderall both have their places in ADHD treatment. Strattera and Adderall are useful in managing symptoms and are generally well-tolerated by patients. Typically, insurance covers these medications, and both options are generally affordable with a discount card if you are paying with cash. The choice of medication depends on many factors and should be discussed with your doctor. For parents of children and adolescents with ADHD, therapy is recommended to help your child with the diagnosis.
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Online Psychiatry
Circle Medical – ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment. Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same & next day appointments available. Visit Circle Medical
Personalized, Affordable ADHD Treatment
Klarity Health – The providers on Klarity offer comprehensive, personalized ADHD treatment. From diagnosis to therapy to medication management, a Klarity provider will be there for you. And, if needed, they’re able to prescribe controlled substances, like Adderall and Concerta. Visit Klarity Health
ADHD Medication Management + Therapy
Brightside Health – Different people experience ADHD in different ways. That’s why Brightside Health develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1-on-1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. No controlled substances. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start your free assessment.
ADHD Management Tools
Inflow App – Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial
Do you think you have ADHD?
Answer an evidence-based questionnaire for Circles Medical to learn more. Takes 45 seconds.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
