Strattera Vs. Adderall: Understanding the Differences

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}

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}

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.

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

*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

*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.

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?

For Further Reading

• Zenzedi (Dextroamphetamine Sulfate): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, & More
• Stimulant vs Non-Stimulant ADHD Meds: Key Differences
• Non Stimulant ADHD Medication: 6 Options
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline
• National Resource Center on ADHD
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)