What Is Strattera?
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for treating ADHD in both children and adults. It was the first non-stimulant medication specifically developed for ADHD, receiving FDA approval in 2002.
The biggest difference between Strattera and stimulant medications like Adderall or Ritalin is that Strattera is not a controlled substance. It has zero abuse potential, cannot produce a "high," and does not carry the same prescribing restrictions. For patients who cannot or do not want to take stimulants, Strattera is often the first alternative their doctor considers.
How Strattera Works for ADHD
Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine in your brain, making more of this neurotransmitter available. Norepinephrine plays a major role in attention, working memory, and executive function -- all areas where ADHD causes trouble.
Unlike stimulants, which start working within an hour and wear off the same day, Strattera works differently:
- It builds up in your system over 2-4 weeks before reaching full effectiveness
- It works around the clock -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (not just during "medication hours")
- There is no "wearing off" period or end-of-day crash
- It does not affect dopamine levels the same way stimulants do, which is why it has no abuse potential
The tradeoff: you have to be patient. Strattera does not produce the immediate "lights on" feeling that stimulants do. Most patients start noticing improvements after 1-2 weeks, with full effects appearing after 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
Who Is Strattera Best For?
Strattera is not for everyone, but for certain patients it is the ideal choice:
- Patients with anxiety alongside ADHD -- Stimulants can sometimes worsen anxiety. Strattera does not have this effect and can actually help reduce anxiety in some patients.
- People with a history of substance use -- Because Strattera is not a controlled substance and has no abuse potential, it is a safer choice for patients in recovery or with a history of substance misuse.
- Patients who had bad experiences with stimulants -- If stimulants caused too many side effects (jitteriness, insomnia, appetite loss, mood swings), Strattera offers a completely different mechanism.
- People who need all-day coverage -- Strattera works 24/7, which means it helps with evening tasks, weekend responsibilities, and morning routines -- not just the workday.
- Patients whose jobs prohibit stimulants -- Some occupations (commercial driving, certain military roles) restrict stimulant use. Strattera is an acceptable alternative.
Typical Dosing for Adults
Strattera is taken once daily, usually in the morning (though some doctors recommend evening dosing if it causes drowsiness).
Starting dose: 40mg once daily for at least 3 days.
Target dose: 80mg once daily (or 40mg twice daily). This is the dose where most adults see the best results.
Maximum dose: 100mg per day.
Because Strattera takes weeks to build up, dose changes happen slowly. Your psychiatrist will not rush the process -- giving the medication enough time to work at each dose before adjusting.
Side Effects to Know About
Strattera has a different side effect profile than stimulants. The most common issues include:
- Nausea or upset stomach -- The most frequently reported side effect. Taking Strattera with food significantly reduces this.
- Decreased appetite -- Less pronounced than with stimulants, but still present for some patients.
- Fatigue or drowsiness -- Some patients feel sleepy, especially during the first week. Taking it at bedtime can turn this side effect into a benefit.
- Dry mouth -- Common but usually manageable with increased water intake.
- Constipation -- Increasing fiber and water intake usually helps.
Most side effects are worst during the first 1-2 weeks and improve as your body adjusts. Your psychiatrist will check in regularly during this period.
Strattera vs. Stimulant Medications
- Speed of effect: Stimulants work within an hour. Strattera takes 2-6 weeks to reach full effectiveness.
- Duration: Stimulants wear off (4-14 hours depending on the formulation). Strattera works around the clock.
- Abuse potential: Stimulants are Schedule II controlled substances. Strattera is not controlled at all.
- Anxiety: Stimulants can worsen anxiety. Strattera may actually reduce it.
- Side effects: Stimulants commonly cause appetite loss and insomnia. Strattera commonly causes nausea and fatigue.
Neither approach is "better" overall -- it depends on your specific symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. Your psychiatrist will help you weigh the options.
Getting Your Strattera Prescription
- Fill out your intake form. Tell us about your symptoms and any previous medication experiences. Five minutes.
- Talk to a psychiatrist. Your doctor will determine if Strattera is the right fit. If you have tried stimulants before and did not like them, make sure to mention that -- it helps your doctor make the best recommendation.
- Start treatment with realistic expectations. Strattera takes time to work. Your psychiatrist will schedule follow-ups at the 2-week and 4-week marks to assess your progress.
Get started today -- we will help you find the right ADHD medication for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Strattera to start working?
Most patients start noticing subtle improvements after 1-2 weeks. Full therapeutic effects typically develop after 4-6 weeks of consistent daily use. This is different from stimulants, which work within an hour. The upside is that Strattera works 24/7 once it reaches full effect.
Can I take Strattera with a stimulant medication?
Some psychiatrists do prescribe Strattera alongside a low-dose stimulant for patients who need both approaches. However, this should only be done under close medical supervision. Do not combine medications on your own -- always discuss this with your doctor.
Will Strattera show up on a drug test?
No. Strattera is not a stimulant and is not a controlled substance. It will not trigger a positive result on standard drug screenings. This makes it a popular choice for patients in occupations that require regular drug testing.
What happens if I stop taking Strattera suddenly?
Strattera does not cause physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms like some other medications. However, stopping suddenly means your ADHD symptoms will return as the medication leaves your system. If you want to stop Strattera, talk to your doctor first -- they may recommend a gradual taper.
Is Strattera less effective than stimulants?
Strattera works differently, not necessarily worse. Studies show it is effective for many adults with ADHD, though the overall symptom reduction tends to be somewhat less dramatic than with stimulants. However, for patients who cannot tolerate stimulants or have contraindications, Strattera can be life-changing. Effectiveness varies by individual.
Non-Stimulant Alternatives to Strattera
Strattera is part of a growing category of non-stimulant ADHD medications. Another newer option is Qelbree (viloxazine). Ready to get started? Same-day prescriptions are available. View the full breakdown in our medication comparison chart. Wondering if you have ADHD? Take our free screening to find out.