Adderall vs Strattera

Adderall and Strattera are two oral medications used for the treatment of ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. 

Both these medicines are known to regulate chemicals in the brain and control the hyperactive behavior. Although they have similar effects, the medications work in different ways. 

Adderall: It is a stimulant medication that contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Adderall works directly on the CNS (central nervous system), and has an effect on chemicals that cause hyperactivity. 

Adderall is available as a time-released tablet, which must be swallowed whole and not chewed or crushed. It should be taken once a day. 

Because Adderall contains amphetamine, it has the possibility to be abused. The medication might cause dependence and addiction. 

Strattera: It is a non-stimulant medication that influences the brain chemicals that cause attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity. 

Strattera increases the levels of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter responsible for normal brain function. It is available in capsule form. It was the first ADHD medication, not classified as an addictive substance. 

Studies and Researches: 

A three-week study involving 200 children with ADHD, aged 6 to 12 years were randomly assigned daily treatment of either the extended-release Adderall or Strattera. After the three weeks sessions, the children were monitored in a simulated classroom environment. 

Researchers noticed improvements with Strattera during the first week of the study but it did not continue during the second or third week. The children taking Adderall showed consistent improvements across each of the study days. 

Researchers found ‘significant differences’ between Adderall and Strattera.  The children who received Adderall showed consistent improvements, better behavior, and more focus. The effect of the medication lasts for an extended period of time. 

Children taking Adderall also performed much better on a math test, while the researchers did not notice these improvements in children taking Strattera. 

Adderall Side Effects: 

If not taken under proper supervision, Adderall might have serious side effects due to its harsh effect on the central nervous system. High does of Adderall might lead to severe heart complications. 

Other side effects of Adderall include rapid heart rate, heart attack, seizures, stroke, high blood pressure, and increased heartbeat. Some of the less serious side effects include dizziness, weight loss, insomnia, fever, stomach upset, hives, over-stimulation, nausea, and mood swings. 

Adderall might cause a rise in blood pressure. Anybody who has high blood pressure symptoms should be monitored closely while taking this medication. 

Strattera Side Effects: 

Clinical trials have shown that Strattera caused a slower growth rate in kids taking the medication. Some of the side effects include mood swings, fatigue, drowsiness, ear infection, vomiting, appetite loss, depression, runny nose, and headache. 

Side effects in adults include chills, lower sex drive, abnormal dreams, hot flashes, impotence, headache, insomnia, skin inflammations, palpitations, menstrual problems, prostate problems, tingling, sweating, and weight loss. 

Are There Any Drug Interactions: 

Strattera and Adderall should not be taken within 2 weeks of taking a MAO inhibitor drug. This would include antidepressant drugs such as Nardil and Parnate. 

Taking these medications with MAO inhibitors might cause some serious side effects such as rigid muscles, high fever, changes in heart rhythm, delirium, and coma. 

For more information, read our articles 4 Ritalin Alternatives, 3 Adderall Alternatives, and Adderall vs Vyvanse.