Compare Focalin vs. Strattera
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats attention deficit disorder.
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) effectively treats ADHD, and is usually recommended if first-line ADHD medications don't work for you.
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3.3/ 5 average rating with 141 reviewsforFocalin
Helps you focus and stay alert.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a choice medication for children and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who cannot take amphetamine-based medications, but has a risk of suicidal thoughts.
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3.2/ 5 average rating with 94 reviewsforStrattera
Upsides
- Effectively treats ADHD in children and adults.
- Extended release capsules can be opened and sprinkled in applesauce for people who don't like swallowing pills.
- The extended release pill is available in many strengths and allows for personalized dosing.
- Available as a generic, so it should be reasonably priced.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) is one of the few medications used to treat Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder that's not a stimulant.
- It's not a controlled substance compared to other medications used for this condition.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) is used in combination with counseling or other non-drug therapies to treat ADHD.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) usually only has to be taken once daily.
- It is available as a cheaper, generic form.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) doesn't have to be tapered when discontinued.
Downsides
- Not carried by all pharmacies and may need to be special ordered for you.
- Decreased appetite in children may affect their growth.
- Requires a new prescription from your doctor every month so it may be a hassle for some people.
- Has the potential for abuse, misuse, and dependence.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) is a second-line medication used to treat ADHD. Other medications are usually tried first.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) can cause liver toxicity. If this occurs, it is likely to happen within the first 120 days of starting treatment.
- Strattera (atomoxetine) can cause changes in mood and behavior that may lead to suicidal thoughts, unlike alternative ADHD medications.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
- Pill
Price
Lowest price
$67.70
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$63.63
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Reviews
141 reviews so far
55%
saidit'sworth it
35%
saiditworked well
21%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)?
Leave a review94 reviews so far
46%
saidit'sworth it
32%
saiditworked well
24%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Strattera (atomoxetine)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
The Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
28possible side effects
- Nausea26%
- Dry mouth20%
- Decreased appetite16%
- Difficulty sleeping15%
- Fatigue10%
- Constipation8%
- Dizziness8%
- Drowsiness8%
- Erectile dysfunction8%
- Stomach pain7%
- Urinary hesitation6%
- Irritability5%
- Indigestion4%
- Vomiting4%
- Abnormal dreams4%
- Ejaculation delayed and/or ejaculation disorder4%
- Sweating4%
- Palpitations3%
- Chills3%
- Burning/prickling sensation3%
- Decreased sex drive3%
- Sleep disorder3%
- Pain during menstruation3%
- Hot flush3%
- Feeling jittery2%
- Thirst2%
- Weight loss2%
- Pain on urination2%
Risks and risk factors
- Abuse and dependence
- History of substance abuse
- Serious or life-threatening cardiovascular events
- History of heart problems
- Aggressive behavior and psychosis
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of bipolar Disorder
- Long-term growth suppression
- Seizures
- History of seizures
- Blood circulation problems
- Suicidal thinking
- Liver toxicity
- Serious or life-threatening events
- History of heart problems
- Aggressive behavior and mood changes
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of Bipolar Disorder
- Prolonged erection
- Long-term growth suppression
- Use of Strattera (atomoxetine) in children