Strattera is the first non-stimulant medication that is approved by FDA; it is known by the name atomoxetine. Strattera is a very effective medication for controlling the symptoms of ADHD, attention, and impulsivity. Read more if you want to know Stattera’s effectiveness, benefits, risks, and combination with other medications.
How effective is Strattera?
Strattera is an SNRI medication that works by increasing the brain chemicals (norepinephrine levels) that help in attention and focus, also helps to reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. It’s a controlled substance and can be recommended for adults and children under 6. For better results, take Strattera 3-4 weeks.
Benefits of Strattera
Strattera is a safe and evidence-based treatment option for ADHD; around 25% of individuals have seen effective results in less than a month. Stattera enhances the quality of life and overall well-being. Furthermore, Stattera is also helpful in treating co-occurring mental conditions such as:
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- OCD
How does Strattera work for ADHD and its symptoms?
Strattera, a non-stimulant medication, is a class of NRIs. It is an alternative medication to stimulants. Strattera works in increasing the brain chemicals, it prevent the brain from reabsorbing norepinephrine back in the nervous system.Furthermore, Strattera is a non-stimulant medication with less side effects as compared to stimulant medications. Strattera takes approximately 4 to 8 weeks to work properly.
Comparison of Strattera with other medications
Here is a brief comparison of Strattera with other medications:
Strattera vs Ritalin
Ritalin and Strattera work differently for ADHD symptoms. Ritalin is a stimulant among several ADHD medications.Here is a comparison of Strattera and Ritalin medications.
| Strattera | Ritalin | |
| Main ingredient | Atomoxetine | Methylphenidate |
| Forms | Oral capsule | Immediate-release (IR) |
| Dosage | Once a day | 2 to 3 times in a day |
| Side effects | Abdominal discomfort, Nausea, disturbed stomach, Constipation, Dry tongue | Palpitations, Migraine, Insomnia, Anxiety; Sweating, Shedding weight, Decreased appetite, Saliva, discomfort in the abdomen |
Strattera vs Vyvanse
Vyvanse stimulates the nervous system to produce brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Here is a brief comparison of both medications.
| Strattera | Vyvanse | |
| Drug class | SNRI | Schedule II stimulant |
| Forms | Oral capsule | Capsules and chewable tablets |
| Dosage | 10 mg to 100 mg | 10mg to 70mg |
| Side effects | Sleepiness, Dizziness, decreased libido, Sexual dysfunction, difficulty urinating | Stress, Diarrhea, vertigo, Dry mouth, irritability, Problems sleeping, Vomiting, Weight loss, Upper stomach ache |
Strattera vs Adderall
Adderall is a stimulant and is the first-choice option for treating ADHD, while non-stimulants like Strattera are a second-choice treatment. Adderall gives efficient results the day you start taking it. Strattera is a slow process that takes several weeks to work.Adderall and Strattera are briefly compared here.
| Adderall | Strattera | |
| Drug class | Schedule II stimulant | SNRI |
| Brand / Generic Status | amphetamine salts | atomoxetine |
| Dosages | 5 mg to 30 mg | 10 mg to 100 mg |
| Side effects | Eating less
Reduction in weight Dry mouth Nausea Fever Headache Having difficulty sleeping |
Upset stomach
Nausea Vomiting Rectitude Eating less Weight loss Feeling tired Lack of sleep |
Conclusion
Strattera is a non-stimulant medication recommended for the treatment of ADHD. It helps reduce the hyperactivity and impulsiveness in ADHD individuals and helps in increasing attention and focus. It takes time to work (4 to 8 weeks) as compare to stimulant medications. Furthermore, healthcare professionals advised not to take Strattera in pregnancy.
It also carries the risk of suicide; always monitor your loved ones in such conditions.
The symptoms of ADHD can be reduced with the right medication and therapies.
Contact Renewed Medical Health Group for professional support.
Mental wellness starts with believing in yourself and accepting your true self. If you or someone around you is looking for mental health support, don’t hesitate to get help at Renewed Mental Health Group. Using evidence-based and holistic treatment, our patients can find pathways to embrace emotional, psychological, and social equilibrium.