Strattera (atomoxetine)

No. Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication that works differently from traditional stimulant ADHD medications like Adderall or Vyvanse. It increases norepinephrine levels in the brain, helping improve attention, focus, and impulse control without the same risk of dependency.

No, Strattera is not a controlled substance.

Strattera works by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in attention and behavior regulation. This increases norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant, while Adderall (amphetamine salts) is a stimulant. Strattera’s effects build gradually over several weeks, similar to how antidepressants work, leading to consistent and continual symptom improvement. Whereas Adderall works quickly but for shorter periods of several hours per day. Strattera is often prescribed for individuals who cannot tolerate stimulants, prefer not to take stimulants, or have a history of substance use.

Common side effects may include dry mouth, upset stomach, decreased appetite, fatigue, and sleepiness. Some people may also experience dizziness or mood changes. Side effects are uncommon, and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Weight loss can occur, particularly early in treatment, due to decreased appetite, but far less commonly than stimulant treatments for ADHD. Monitoring weight regularly is recommended, especially for children and adolescents.

Strattera cannot be taken with certain antidepressants but can be cautiously taken as prescribed with other antidepressants. Specifically, Strattera should never be combined with MAOIs. Combining with other antidepressants like some SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), and bupropion can increase the likelihood of adverse effects. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before starting Strattera, as they will determine if a combination is safe and may need to adjust dosages or choose a different antidepressant. Consult your prescribing clinician before starting, stopping, or combining any medications or substances with Strattera.

Some people report increased anxiety or mood swings while taking Strattera. If you notice significant emotional changes, discuss them with your clinician right away.

Unlike stimulants, Strattera can take 4 to 6 weeks at an effective dose, to show its full effect. Your prescribing clinician will help monitor progress and make adjustments if needed.

Because Strattera is not a central nervous stimulant like other ADHD medications, it does not produce severe withdrawal symptoms, mainly because it affects the norepinephrine neurotransmitter instead of dopamine or serotonin. Therefore, Strattera withdrawals are unlikely to occur and are usually less severe than those of stimulant medications.

While rare, however, possible Strattera withdrawal symptoms include:

• Rebound ADHD symptoms
• Irritability and mood changes
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Sleep disturbances
• Nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort
• Headaches

Always follow your psychiatric provider’s directions on when to stop taking medications or change dosages.

Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a stimulant ADHD medication, while Strattera is a non-stimulant. Ritalin works quickly and has a shorter duration, often requiring multiple doses per day. Strattera works continuously and does not typically cause the “ups and downs” associated with stimulant medications.

Try to avoid alcohol while on Strattera. Mixing alcohol and Strattera may cause a wide range of side effects, including headaches, vomiting, and fatigue. Strattera may also make alcohol feel more potent and intoxicating than usual.

Strattera can be used long-term under medical supervision. Your clinician will monitor for side effects and check blood pressure, heart rate, and mood regularly.

Yes, Strattera (atomoxetine) can cause sleep problems, including both insomnia and drowsiness. The specific effect on sleep varies among individuals. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. While it tends to have a less stimulating effect compared to stimulants, it can still cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia or, less commonly, excessive daytime sleepiness.

Strattera is not approved for anxiety. It is not considered a first-line treatment for anxiety alone, and its effectiveness can vary greatly depending on the individual.

Yes, Strattera (atomoxetine) can cause sexual side effects in some individuals, though this is uncommon. These side effects may include: decreased libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction, delayed or absent ejaculation, difficulty achieving orgasm, and changes in menstrual cycle.

Yes. Atomoxetine is the generic version of Strattera.

As of publication date, the cost of Strattera depends on whether you are prescribed the brand-name medication or the generic form, atomoxetine.

Brand-name Strattera: Prices generally range from about $394 to $461 for 30 capsules, depending on the dosage strength. Lower doses such as 10 mg, 18 mg, and 25 mg typically start around $394.13, while higher doses including 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, and 100 mg range between $427.53 and $460.65.

Generic atomoxetine: Prices typically range from about $20 to $60 for a 30-day supply, depending on the pharmacy, dosage, and insurance coverage. Generic versions are widely available and can offer significant cost savings compared to the brand-name medication.

If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your supporting diagnosis and plan type (e.g., commercial, Medicare, Medicaid) and may include a copay or coinsurance.

Yes. Some people experience drowsiness or fatigue, especially when first starting treatment. Strattera (atomoxetine) can either disrupt sleep or cause drowsiness, depending on the individual. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. While it tends to have a less stimulating effect compared to stimulants, it can still cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia or, less commonly, excessive daytime sleepiness.

Strattera and Wellbutrin may sometimes be prescribed together, but this combination can increase the risk of high blood pressure or mood changes. Consult your prescribing clinician before starting, stopping, or combining any medications or substances with Strattera.

Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are both non-stimulant ADHD medications. They work in similar ways but have different chemical structures. Qelbree may have a slightly faster onset of action, while Strattera has been available longer and is available as a generic, making it a more affordable option.

Intuniv (guanfacine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication that works on different brain receptors (alpha-2A adrenergic receptors) to improve attention and impulse control. Strattera targets norepinephrine instead. Some people use both medications together for combined benefits, depending on symptoms and tolerance.

Strattera (atomoxetine) is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children ages 6 and older. It has been shown to help improve attention, focus, and impulse control in many children and adolescents. However, as with all psychiatric medications, children taking Strattera should be closely monitored by their clinician for any changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or behavior, especially during the first few weeks of treatment or when doses are adjusted.