Compare Strattera vs. Provigil

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Strattera (atomoxetine)

Prescription only

Provigil (modafinil)

Prescription only
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
Improves alertness.

Provigil (modafinil) is effective in improving alertness, but it interacts with some medicines and shouldn't be used long-term.

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4.2/ 5 average rating with 28 reviewsforProvigil
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.
  • Provigil (modafinil) is a nonstimulant medication that improves alertness.
  • Provigil (modafinil) is available in a cheaper, generic version.
  • Provigil (modafinil) is good at decreasing excessive sleepiness in shift work sleep disorder.
  • If you need to sleep in the daytime, this medication won't effect you.
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.
  • Provigil (modafinil) can be habit forming, so it shouldn't be used for long-term treatment.
  • Provigil (modafinil) is not a good choice if you have liver problems.
  • May not be a good option if you are taking hormonal contraception like birth control pills.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$33.75
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Lowest price
$22.95
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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 review
28 reviews so far
82%
saidit'sworth it
71%
saiditworked well
4%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Provigil (modafinil)?

Leave a review
Side effects
28possible side effects
  • Nausea
    26%
  • Dry mouth
    20%
  • Decreased appetite
    16%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    15%
  • Fatigue
    10%
  • Constipation
    8%
  • Dizziness
    8%
  • Drowsiness
    8%
  • Erectile dysfunction
    8%
  • Stomach pain
    7%
  • Urinary hesitation
    6%
  • Irritability
    5%
  • Indigestion
    4%
  • Vomiting
    4%
  • Abnormal dreams
    4%
  • Ejaculation delayed and/or ejaculation disorder
    4%
  • Sweating
    4%
  • Palpitations
    3%
  • Chills
    3%
  • Burning/prickling sensation
    3%
  • Decreased sex drive
    3%
  • Sleep disorder
    3%
  • Pain during menstruation
    3%
  • Hot flush
    3%
  • Feeling jittery
    2%
  • Thirst
    2%
  • Weight loss
    2%
  • Pain on urination
    2%
See more detailed side effects
25possible side effects
  • Headache
    34%
  • Nausea
    11%
  • Nervousness
    7%
  • Stuffy nose
    7%
  • Back pain
    6%
  • Diarrhea
    6%
  • Indigestion
    5%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    5%
  • Anxiety
    5%
  • Dizziness
    5%
  • Flu symptoms
    4%
  • Dry mouth
    4%
  • Loss of appetite
    4%
  • Throat inflammation
    4%
  • Chest pain
    3%
  • High blood pressure
    3%
  • Fast heart beat
    2%
  • Palpitation
    2%
  • Dilation of blood vessels
    2%
  • Constipation
    2%
  • Abnormal liver function
    2%
  • Depression
    2%
  • Burning/tingling sensation
    2%
  • Drowsiness
    2%
  • Lung disorder
    2%
See more detailed side effects
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
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Serious allergic reactions
    • Allergy to Provigil (modafinil)
  • Heart problems
    • History of heart problems
  • Increased side effects
    • Current kidney problems
    • Current liver problems
  • Driving impairment
    • Taking with alcohol or drugs
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Strattera (atomoxetine)
Learn more about Provigil (modafinil)