Strattera vs Ritalin: which one is better for ADHD?

For many people, finding the right attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication is a game-changer. Two popular options are Strattera and Ritalin — but which one is better? 

In this article, we compare these 2 medications, including their effectiveness for ADHD, how they work, side effects, cost, and more. Keep reading to learn if Strattera vs Ritalin is right for you.

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Strattera vs Ritalin drug types

Strattera (atomoxetine) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ADHD in adults and children ages 6 and up. Brand-name Strattera is no longer available — it was discontinued in November 2023. At this time, generic atomoxetine is available. Some people still refer to it as Strattera though. It belongs to a medication class called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs). It’s thought to work by affecting chemicals in your brain.

Ritalin (methylphenidate) is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children ages 6 and up. It’s also approved to treat narcolepsy. Ritalin belongs to a medication class called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. It works by boosting activity in your CNS, which includes your brain and nerves. 

A key difference between Strattera and Ritalin is their potential for addiction and abuse. Ritalin is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. As a non-stimulant ADHD medication, Strattera isn’t a controlled substance and doesn’t lead to dependence.

How Strattera and Ritalin work for ADHD symptoms

Strattera and Ritalin work differently to manage ADHD symptoms, such as restlessness, impulsiveness, forgetfulness, excessive talking, and losing things often. Many ADHD medications, including Ritalin, are stimulants. Strattera is a non-stimulant.

As an NRI, Strattera treats ADHD by keeping norepinephrine, a chemical messenger, in the brain for longer. This is thought to improve focus and concentration. In Ritalin’s case, stimulants calm ADHD by making more dopamine and norepinephrine available in the brain. This stimulates brain cell activity and improves attention and focus in people with ADHD.

Strattera vs Ritalin dosages 

Strattera is only available as generic atomoxetine. Ritalin is available in both brand-name and generic versions. 

Note that Ritalin is available in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) forms. IR medications release the active ingredient into your body right after you take it. In contrast, ER medications release the active ingredient into your body throughout the day.

The table below summarizes the forms, strengths, and typical dosing of Ritalin, Ritalin LA, and Strattera. 

Strattera vs Ritalin costs

Cost is another factor to look at when comparing medications. Strattera and Ritalin are both available as generic medications, which are usually cheaper than brand-name drugs. And the generic version of Ritalin typically costs less than the generic version of Strattera.

The table below compares the costs of Strattera vs Ritalin, according to drugs.com using its discount card. 

What you pay depends on the dosage prescribed. Your actual cost for Strattera or Ritalin could be less with insurance or other discounts.

What people with ADHD say about Strattera and Ritalin

Individual experiences with Strattera or Ritalin vary, according to reviews from real people who’ve taken 1 or both medications. 

On drugs.com, 512 users rate Strattera 5.2 out of 10 for ADHD. In Strattera reviews, people report feeling “more alert and energized with enhanced focus” while taking it. They also report side effects at first that lessen as they continue to take the medication. Many reviewers commented that they are happy they switched to Strattera because they don’t want to take stimulant ADHD medications anymore.

Ritalin is rated by 174 drugs.com users 6.8 out of 10 for ADHD. Reviewers commented on the “immediate difference” they saw when they started taking it. One reviewer noted the difference as “life-changing.” Other reviewers commented on minimal side effects and an enhanced ability to complete tasks.

What research says about Strattera vs Ritalin for ADHD

Research shows that Strattera and Ritalin are both effective treatments for ADHD. 

A study of Strattera in adults with ADHD found that it improved memory, planning, attention, and the ability to multitask, compared to placebo. A review of data from several studies found methylphenidate (Ritalin’s active ingredient) to be an effective treatment for adults with ADHD, and that it improves attention and concentration.

A trial comparing atomoxetine to methylphenidate in young people 6 to 16 with ADHD found that methylphenidate was more effective at treating ADHD symptoms and had fewer side effects than atomoxetine. But these medications haven’t been directly compared in adults with ADHD.

Based on current treatment guidelines, either Strattera or Ritalin can be prescribed as a first-line medication for managing ADHD in adults. Many factors influence why a healthcare provider would recommend 1 over the other. For example, if you have a history of substance use disorder, your provider likely won’t recommend Ritalin due to its risk for addiction and abuse.

What to know before you start Strattera or Ritalin

When first starting Ritalin or Strattera, you may not see improvement right away. Strattera takes 2 to 4 weeks to reach its maximum effect for managing ADHD symptoms. Ritalin takes about 4 weeks. With either medication, you start with a lower dose and work with your healthcare provider to gradually increase to the amount that’s right for you. This approach helps your body adjust to the medication and minimizes side effects. 

When you start Ritalin or Strattera, and throughout treatment, you may experience side effects. Below we cover what to watch for.

Side effects of Strattera vs Ritalin

While not a complete list of side effects, the table below shows the common and serious side effects you want to be aware of for Strattera vs Ritalin.

Drug interactions for Strattera and Ritalin

When talking to your doctor about ADHD treatments, make sure to tell them about everything you’re taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. This helps to prevent drug interactions with ADHD medications.

Some of Strattera vs Ritalin’s drug interactions are compared in the table below. Other interactions are possible.

Warnings for Strattera vs Ritalin

Both Strattera and Ritalin have a boxed warning. This is the strongest safety warning required by the FDA. Both medications also have other warnings and precautions.

Strattera’s boxed warning is for suicidal ideation in young people. It states that Strattera increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and adolescents. Though no suicides were observed in trials, children and adolescents started on Strattera should be monitored closely for changes in mood or behavior.

Ritalin’s boxed warning is for the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to addiction or substance use disorder. It also states that misuse of Ritalin can result in overdose or death. It’s important to consider your health and medical history when determining whether this medication is suitable for you. Work closely with your provider to monitor for signs and symptoms of misuse throughout treatment.

Don’t stop taking Ritalin unless your healthcare provider advises it. Stopping Ritalin abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms, such as feeling down or agitated, tired, having bad dreams, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, and increased appetite.

Availability of Strattera and Ritalin

You can get Ritalin in both brand-name and generic versions. The generic name is methylphenidate. 

The brand Strattera is no longer available. The manufacturer discontinued it in November 2023. A generic version, atomoxetine oral capsule, is still available. You can get it at any pharmacy that has it in stock. 

Many ADHD medications have been affected by drug shortages. At the time of publication, the FDA doesn’t report any shortages of atomoxetine, Ritalin, or methylphenidate. There is a shortage of methylphenidate ER, but it’s a generic version of Concerta.

Key takeaways 

Strattera and Ritalin are 2 common ADHD medications. Both medications are proven effective for treating ADHD, but no direct comparison studies have been conducted in adults.

Ritalin is a stimulant, while Strattera is a non-stimulant. Strattera isn’t likely to be abused, but Ritalin is a controlled substance with the potential for abuse and drug dependence. 

Brand-name Strattera was discontinued, but generic atomoxetine is still available. Ritalin is available in both brand-name and generic versions. Atomoxetine is generally more expensive than the generic version of Ritalin, methylphenidate.

It’s important to consult a healthcare provider when considering an ADHD medication, such as Strattera or Ritalin. Together you can weigh the pros and cons to find a personalized treatment plan for managing your ADHD symptoms. 

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