Compare Strattera vs. Dexedrine
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Helps you focus and stay alert.
Strattera (Atomoxetine) isn't considered a first-line medication for ADHD, but since it isn't a stimulant, it's still highly recommended.
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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
- One of the few medications used to treat ADHD that's not a stimulant.
- It isn't a controlled substance.
- Strattera (Atomoxetine) is used in combination with counseling or other non-drug therapies to treat ADHD.
- You usually only need to take it once a day.
- 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
- It's a second-line medication used to treat ADHD. Other medications are usually tried first.
- It's only available as a brand name medication, so it can be expensive.
- 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
$97.93
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$211.07
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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
30possible side effects
- Nausea26%
- Dry mouth20%
- Decreased appetite16%
- Insomnia15%
- Changes in heart rate or blood pressure10%
- Fatigue10%
- Constipation8%
- Dizziness8%
- Somnolence8%
- Erectile dysfunction8%
- Abdominal pain7%
- Urinary hesitation6%
- Irritability5%
- Dyspepsia4%
- Vomiting4%
- Abnormal dreams4%
- Ejaculation delayed and/or ejaculation disorder4%
- Hyperhidrosis4%
- Palpitations3%
- Chills3%
- Paraesthesia3%
- Libido decreased3%
- Sleep disorder3%
- Dysmenhorrhea3%
- Hot flush3%
- Feeling jittery2%
- Thirst2%
- Weight loss2%
- Dysuria2%
- Any sexual side effect2%
The Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
- Suicidal thinking
- Age below 18
- Liver disease
- Serious or life-threatening cardiovascular events
- History of heart problems
- Aggressive behavior and psychosis
- History of psychotic episodes
- History of Bipolar Disorder
- Prolonged erection
- Problems with urination
- Long-term growth suppression
- Starting Strattera (Atomoxetine) before puberty
- 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