/Did you recently get diagnosed with ADHD? Dealing with ADHD is difficult daily. People have to struggle every day at work, house chores, and staying up with others gets tough. If you have symptoms like hyperactivity and inattention, it’s time you move forward. Stop suffering when treatment plans for ADHD are available.

About 4.4 % of the adults in the USA are diagnosed with ADHD. It has become such a common phenomenon that pharma companies have now come up with different prescription medications, over the counter’s, and therapies for managing the symptoms. One such beneficial therapy is ABA therapy. With FDA-approved medications like Strattera, Adderall, and therapy, you too can lead a normal life.

This blog will cover Strattera vs. Adderall, its cost, side effects, and dosage. But before that, if you’re looking for an online consultation and want to connect with us, get started now with the Therapy Fleet and get prescribed Adderall today!

Strattera vs. Adderall for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Strattera vs Adderall are both ADHD medications, but Strattera is a non-stimulant that contains atomoxetine. Unlike Adderall, Strattera is not a controlled substance and belongs to a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Strattera’s mode of action is still unknown, but it is related to the selective inhibition of the presynaptic norepinephrine transporter.

In contrast, Adderall is a stimulant and is a controlled drug. The generic Adderall contains amphetamines/dextroamphetamine salts. Unlike Strattera, Adderall has a high potential for abuse. Adderall comes in the immediate-release form and an extended-release form. The dosage for Adderall and Adderall XR varies for all, although the standard dosage of Adderall is the same. Adderall IR is also indicated for the treatment of narcolepsy in adults, whereas Strattera vs Adderall XR is only for ADHD.

What Are the Main Differences Between Strattera and Adderall?

Both Strattera vs Adderall are ADHD medications, but the differences between Adderall and Strattera are many. For instance, Straterra Adderall’s price varies, the side effects of Strattera vs Adderall differ, and their dosage varies too. However, some may ask, ‘Does Strattera vs Adderall weight loss occur? To answer that, keep reading.

Strattera Dosage vs. Adderall Dosage

Strattera	Adderall IR	Adderall XR- for ADHD only
The initial dose is 40 mg, which is increased after 3 days.	For adults with ADHD, 5 mg to 40 mg/day, either once or spaced out 3 times a day	Adults 20 mg/day (once)
The target dose is 80 mg( given once in the morning or twice 40 mg each.	For adults with narcolepsy 5 mg to 60 mg/day	–
After 2 to 4 weeks, if required, the dose can be increased to 100 mg	For children with ADHD 3 – 5 years: 2.5 mg to 40 mg. Children > 6 years 5 mg to 40 mg	10 mg to 20 mg/day (once)
For children- the dosage depends on the weight	Narcolepsy in children > 6 years 5mg to 60 mg

Adderall vs. Atomoxetine Treatment Duration

The typical treatment duration for Strattera vs Adderall is different. Strattera can be used for long periods while monitoring the patient regularly, whereas Adderall should not be used for a long time as it leads to dependence and drug abuse.

Strattera vs. Adderall Conditions Treated

As mentioned above, Strattera is used to manage the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults, whereas Adderall is FDA-approved for narcolepsy, too. However, if we compare Strattera to Adderall, then Strattera is a safer option, as it is not a controlled substance.

Both drugs are a part of a comprehensive treatment plan involving therapy and medications. For ADHD, CBT exercises can be performed at home or over-the-counter Adderall alternatives if Adderall alone is showing noticeable results. Long-term use of Adderall makes the drug lose its effectiveness as the body gets used to the drug.

Effectiveness of Strattera Compared to Adderall

Strattera vs. Adderall effectiveness cannot be compared as no direct data compares the two. Each individual reacts differently to the drug; thus, saying which is better is difficult. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical history, present health conditions, and check the other prescription drugs you use.

Other factors taken into consideration are age if a controlled substance suits you, the cost, and if you have a history of drug abuse. But the question is, does Strattera work as well as Adderall? Yes, it does, but the method of action for Strattera vs Adderall differs. In contrast, for those thinking is strattera as effective as Adderall, no. Adderall, being a CNS stimulant, is more effective than Strattera.

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Coverage and Cost of Atomoxetine Compared to Adderall

Most of the insurance companies cover the cost of Strattera. If you do not have insurance, you have to pay around $ 387 for a month’s supply, 40 mg each.

On the other hand, most insurance plans also cover generic Adderall. The typical cost for 20 mg Adderall, is $ 100, for 60 tablets, without insurance. Different insurance companies have different rules, for instance; some insurance companies prefer the brand name Adderall XR over the generic Adderall. If you find the cost of Adderall expensive and you do not have insurance, you can try Adderall coupons for discounts.

Common Side Effects of Strattera vs. Adderall

All ADHD medications have side effects, but unlike Adderall, which is a stimulant, the side effects of Strattera are mild.

Side Effects of Strattera:

abdominal pain
vomiting
Nausea
Fatigue
decreased appetite
Headache
Drowsiness
Dizziness
dry mouth
Dizziness
abdominal pain
Fatigue
erectile dysfunction
insomnia.

Side Effects of Adderall:

appetite loss
Insomnia
abdominal pain
mood changes
Vomiting
Nervousness
Nausea/
Fever.

weight loss

dry mouth
loss of appetite
Insomnia

Headache

Anxiety
tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
depression

Drug Interactions of Strattera vs. Adderall

There are many drug interactions between Strattera and Adderall. Some of the common ones are listed below;

Strattera should not be combined with paroxetine, fluoxetine, and other CYP2D6 potent inhibitors. If you are using those from before, your doctor will adjust the dosage of Strattera.
Do not use tricyclic antidepressants with Adderall, as it increases the cardiovascular side effects.
Combining SSRI antidepressants with Adderall increases the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Strattera vs. Adderall both create a dangerous combo with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. The result could be fatal. Stop using MAOI 14 days before you start with Adderall or Strattera.
Adderall and Strattera interact with blood pressure medicines. So, closely monitor your blood pressure when on ADHD drugs.
Do not combine Vitamin C and Adderall, as Vitamin C reduces the absorption of Adderall, making it less effective.

The Bottom Line

Both Strattera and Adderall are ADHD drugs. Strattera is a non-stimulant, unlike Adderall; thus, the side effects are not potent. In contrast, Adderall has a high potential for abuse and has more serious side effects. If your doctor prescribed you Adderall but you are experiencing serious side effects, ask them to consider Strattera. In terms of effectiveness, both are more or less the same.

Use Strattera vs Adderall as directed by the doctor, and do not alter the dosage on your own. Some people work out on Adderall, which might not be unsafe, but always consult your doctor first if you are a gym enthusiast.

There may be times when Adderall is not working well; there are many reasons for that; for instance, your Adderall dose may be too low, and some signs of low Adderall are hyperactive behavior and inattention.

Medical Disclaimer:

At Therapy Fleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.

Taking care of your mind is as vital as caring for your body; both need patience, kindness, and daily attention.

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FAQs

1. How is Strattera different from Adderall?

The differences between Strattera and Adderall are various; for instance, Strattera’s generic name is atomoxetine, and Adderall’s generic name is amphetamine salt. Next, Adderall is a stimulant, and Strattera is a non-stimulant.

2. Is Strattera safer than Adderall?

Yes, as Strattera has a low potential for abuse and dependency, in terms of safety, Strattera is better.

3. Will I get energized with Strattera like Adderall?

No, non-stimulants do not give you energy.

4. Which is better, Strattera or Adderall?

Adderall, compared to Strattera, in terms of effectiveness, is the first line of treatment for ADHD and is more effective than non-stimulants like Strattera.

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