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ADHD

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Strattera vs. Adderall: What Is the Difference and Which One Should I Take?

Strattera vs. Adderall: What Is the Difference and Which One Should I Take?

Written by Klarity Editorial Team

Published: Mar 31, 2022

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Zoe Russell

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Treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be a complex process, but there are many available medications that can make managing the disorder much easier. Strattera and Adderall are just some of the many drugs used to treat ADHD symptoms, and while they may have similar effects on the body, there are some important distinctions between how they work.

One of these prescription medications could be an effective method of treating your ADHD symptoms. A provider on Klarity can diagnose your symptoms and prescribe you an effective medication (if applicable) through fast, simple, and affordable online ADHD treatment.

With Klarity’s help, you can be connected with a medical expert in as little as 48 hours to begin managing your ADHD. Schedule an appointment today with a healthcare provider who specializes in treating your ADHD symptoms.  

StratteraAdderall
Drug ClassSelective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)Schedule II stimulant
Brand / Generic StatusBrand name for atomoxetineBrand name for amphetamine salts
Form(s) of the DrugCapsulesImmediate release tablets
Standard Dosage10mg to 100mg5mg to 30mg tablets
Conditions TreatedFDA-approved uses:
• ADHD

Off-label uses:
• Depression
FDA-approved uses:
• ADHD
• Narcolepsy (sleep disorder)

Off-label uses:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
CostGeneric form (atomoxetine):
• $44 for 7 10mg capsules
• $1,501 for 90 100mg capsules*

*Insurance may significantly lower the price
Brand-name Adderall:
• $8 per 5mg tablet
• $237 for a 30-day supply

Generic form (amphetamine salts):
• $13 for 30 days of 5mg tablets
• $85 for 30 extended-release pills
Side-EffectsCommon side effects:
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Tiredness
• Trouble sleeping
• Decrease in sexual desire

Serious side effects:
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fainting
• Numbness
• Difficulty urinating
Common side-effects:
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fever
• Trouble sleeping

Serious side-effects:
• Signs of blood flow problems
• Behavior changes
• Uncontrolled movements
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Trouble speaking
Warnings For Use• Potentially addictive
• Overuse may cause serotonin syndrome

Drug interactions:
• MOA inhibitors
• Some blood pressure medications
• Some antidepressants
• Albuterol
• Carries very high risk of dependency
• Overuse may cause serotonin syndrome


Drug interactions:
• SSRIs and SNRIs
• Blood pressure medication
• Acid reflux medication
• Blood thinners
• Cold or allergy medication
• Opioid-based medications
• Seizure medication

Strattera

Forms and Dosages

Strattera comes in capsules in 7 different dosages ranging from as low as 10 mg to as high as 100 mg. Strattera does not have a separate extended-release form, but it also does not have to be taken as frequently as Adderall.

Indications and Conditions Treated

Strattera is primarily used to treat ADHD, but its effect on the brain also makes it an effective way to restore the balance of neurotransmitters.

Costs

The cost of Strattera can range widely depending on the dosage and the number of capsules. The generic medication (Atomoxetine) can be as low as $44 for 7 of the 10 mg capsules to as high as $1,501 for 90 of the 100 mg capsules. Most health insurances will cover generic Strattera.

Your provider on Klarity may be able to help you find coupons to reduce the cost of your Strattera prescription.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Strattera include the following:

  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Tiredness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Decrease in sexual desire

Notify your provider immediately if you experience serious side effects such as an irregular heartbeat, fainting, numbness, or difficulty urinating.

Warnings for Use

Unlike Adderall and other stimulants used to treat ADHD, Strattera is not a controlled substance, and there is not a high risk of abuse or dependence. Studies have reported very few cases of inappropriate self-use, and there is no evidence of rebound symptoms or withdrawal upon stopping the medication. Strattera affects norepinephrine levels, and it takes a few weeks to take effect, making it difficult to abuse. 

Licensed providers on Klarity provide personalized treatment. Find a provider that matches your needs and preferences.

Adderall

Forms and Dosages

Adderall comes in tablets that range from 5 mg to 30 mg. These immediate-release tablets are typically taken two to three times per day, but the extended-release form of the medication (Adderall XR) should only need to be taken once. These extended-release capsules have a similar dosage range as the immediate-release tablets.

Indications and Conditions Treated

Adderall is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It also has several off-label uses, including the treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

Costs

Without insurance, brand-name Adderall can cost around $8 per 5 mg tablet, with a 30-day supply costing as much as $237. Adderall’s generic form can be much more affordable, ranging from $13 for 30 days of 5 mg pills up to $85 for 30 days of the maximum dose of extended-release capsules. Due to their increased efficacy over time, extended-release capsules tend to cost more than their immediate-release counterparts.

Your provider on Klarity may be able to help you find coupons to help lower the cost of your Adderall prescription.

Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Adderall are similar to those of Strattera

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Trouble sleeping

More serious side effects include the following:

  • Behavior changes
  • Uncontrolled movements
  • Signs of blood flow problems

Contact your provider immediately if you experience shortness of breath, fainting, severe headaches, extreme tiredness, or blurred vision.

Warnings for Use

Adderall is classified as a Schedule II stimulant due to its potential for abuse and dependence. This classification highlights the importance of cautious and responsible usage. While the drug carries inherent risks, individuals can receive the intended therapeutic benefits of Adderall while minimizing the potential for abuse by adhering to the prescribed dosage and taking it under the supervision of a certified healthcare professional.

Which ADHD Medication Should You Take?

Because Adderall is a stimulant medication and Strattera is not, they work in different ways, and you may benefit from one more than the other. For example, Strattera may take up to 8 weeks to reach its full therapeutic potential, but once it does, the effects last for 24 hours. Adderall IR and Adderall XR, on the other hand, take effect within 30 minutes to an hour, but the effects of Adderall IR wear off after four hours (or after 12 hours for Adderall XR capsules).

In addition, there is a higher risk of addiction and dependence to Adderall than to Strattera because Adderall is a stimulant and Strattera is not. This may be a concern for people with past substance abuse issues, so it’s best to speak with a provider like the ones on Klarity. 

Start ADHD Treatment Today With Help From Klarity

Strattera and Adderall are commonly used for ADHD treatment, but their effects and potential interactions can vary between individuals. By thoroughly evaluating your medical history, a provider on Klarity can help you make an informed decision about which medication is best for you. There are more side effects to taking Strattera or Adderall than what has been listed above, but  a provider on Klarity can inform you about all potential side effects and when to seek ADHD treatment.

Klarity providers quick and affordable ADHD treatment online, so you can start feeling better faster. Schedule an appointment today to speak with a licensed and certified medical professional within 48 hours. 

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