Compare Strattera vs. Vyvanse

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

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Strattera (atomoxetine)

Prescription only

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

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
Helps you focus and stay alert.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a first-choice treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, but it can be expensive since it's only available as a brand name product.

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3.7/ 5 average rating with 491 reviewsforVyvanse
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.
  • Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a first-choice medication to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • It is usually dosed once a day, so parents don't need to send the medication with their children to school.
  • Can take the capsule as a whole or mix the contents with water, orange juice, or yogurt.
  • Available as a chewable pill form.
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.
  • Need to take Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) in the morning, otherwise it can cause difficulty sleeping at night.
  • Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is not available as a generic medication, so it is expensive.
  • This medicine has the potential for abuse and dependence.
  • Can cause serious side effects for the heart.
  • Can also slow growth in children and cause weight loss.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$31.76
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Lowest price
$358.38
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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
491 reviews so far
67%
saidit'sworth it
49%
saiditworked well
17%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)?

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
15possible side effects
  • Decreased appetite
    27%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    27%
  • Dry mouth
    26%
  • Diarrhea
    7%
  • Nausea
    7%
  • Anxiety
    6%
  • Loss of appetite
    5%
  • Feeling jittery
    4%
  • Agitation
    3%
  • Increased blood pressure
    3%
  • Sweating
    3%
  • Restlessness
    3%
  • Difficulty breathing
    2%
  • Increased heart rate
    2%
  • Tremor
    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
  • High blood pressure
    • Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) 14 days before starting Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
  • Abuse and dependence
    • History of drug 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
    • Children ages 6 to 12
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Strattera (atomoxetine)
Learn more about Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)