Compare Strattera vs. Dexedrine
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
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
Treats attention deficit disorder.
Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) is an effective medicine for treatment of ADHD, but often abused for recreational purposes.
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4.3/ 5 average rating with 28 reviewsforDexedrine
Upsides
- 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.
- Recommended as a first-choice treatment of ADHD.
- Available as generic version.
- For more flexible dosing schedule, Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) is available in short and long formulations.
- If you have difficulty swallowing pills, Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) is available as a liquid.
Downsides
- 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.
- Taking Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) can decrease your appetite.
- If taken late in the day, Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) can cause insomnia.
- People who take high doses of Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) are more likely to have anxiety, restlessness, or irritability.
- Requires a new prescription from your doctor every month.
- Not a good option if you have a history of seizures.
- Can be habit-forming so make sure you use it only as prescribed.
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Pill
- Extended release
- Liquid
Price
Lowest price
$31.66
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$115.37
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Reviews
94 reviews so far
46%
saidit'sworth it
32%
saiditworked well
24%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Strattera (atomoxetine)?
Leave a review28 reviews so far
89%
saidit'sworth it
79%
saiditworked well
21%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
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%
The Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- 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
- Abuse and dependence
- History of drug abuse
- Serious or life-threatening heart problems
- History of heart problems
- Aggressive behavior and psychosis
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of bipolar disorder
- Long-term growth suppression
- Children
- Seizures
- History of seizures
- Serotonin Syndrome (rare, life-threatening)
- Using other medicines that increase serotonin levels in the brain