{"id":8136,"date":"2023-01-26T05:24:15","date_gmt":"2023-01-26T13:24:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=8136"},"modified":"2024-02-08T09:14:24","modified_gmt":"2024-02-08T17:14:24","slug":"strattera-vs-focalin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/strattera-vs-focalin\/","title":{"rendered":"Strattera vs. Focalin For ADHD: What\u2019s the Difference?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When it comes to finding the right ADHD medication, navigating the wide variety of available medications can quickly become confusing. You may find yourself asking: Do I need a central nervous system stimulant (CNS) or a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)? What\u2019s safe to combine with my current medications and has the fewest side effects? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The goal of the guide below is to help answer these questions by comparing two common ADHD medications: Strattera and Focalin. Both are approved by the FDA to treat symptoms of ADHD. Though they both treat ADHD symptoms, each has a different mode of action. Focalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, and Strattera is an SNRI antidepressant. Learning more about their key differences will help you understand each medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepared with this information, you\u2019ll have a better idea of which questions to ask your healthcare provider when discussing your ADHD treatment. Still looking for a provider? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Klarity has already connected thousands of people with healthcare providers who can diagnose ADHD and prescribe ADHD medication online<\/a>. During your online visit, these providers will help determine whether Strattera, Focalin, or another ADHD medication is right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To find a provider qualified to evaluate your symptoms and help you build a treatment plan, schedule an appointment <\/a>on Klarity today. We\u2019ll connect you with a licensed specialist in 48 hours or less. <\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Strattera<\/th>Focalin<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)<\/td>Schedule II stimulant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for atomoxetine<\/td>Brand name for dexmethylphenidate<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Capsules<\/td>Immediate-release tablets; Extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>10mg to 100mg<\/td>2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg immediate-release tablets;
\r\n5 mg to 35 mg extended-release capsules
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 ADHD
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Depression<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\r\n\u2022 ADHD
\r\n
\r\nOff-label uses:
\r\n\u2022 Narcolepsy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (atomoxetine):
\n\u2022 $44 for 7 10mg capsules
\n\u2022 $1,501 for 90 100mg capsules*
\n
\n*Insurance may significantly lower the price<\/td>		Generic form (dexmethylphenidate):
\r\n\u2022 $22 for 30, 2.5 mg tablets
\r\n\u2022 $766 for 60, 35mg extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Upset stomach
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Vomiting
\n\u2022 Constipation
\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\n\u2022 Weight loss
\n\u2022 Tiredness
\n\u2022 Trouble sleeping
\n\u2022 Decrease in sexual desire
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat
\n\u2022 Fainting
\n\u2022 Numbness
\n\u2022 Difficulty urinating<\/td>		Trouble sleeping
\r\n\u2022 Nausea
\r\n\u2022 Stomach pain, headache
\r\n\u2022 Nervousness
\r\n\u2022 Loss of appetite
\r\n\u2022 \u2022 Weight loss
\r\nDizziness
\r\n
\r\nSerious side-effects:
\r\n\u2022 Signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes
\r\n\u2022 Unusual wounds
\r\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat
\r\n\u2022 Behavior changes
\r\n\u2022 Uncontrolled muscle movements
\r\n\u2022 Sudden verbal outbursts
\r\nVision changes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>\u2022 Potentially addictive
\n\u2022 Overuse may cause serotonin syndrome
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 MOA inhibitors
\n\u2022 Some blood pressure medications
\n\u2022 Some antidepressants
\n\u2022 Albuterol<\/td>		Warnings:
\r\n\u2022 May be habit-forming
\r\n\u2022 Effectiveness decreases over time
\r\n\u2022 Interactions with other drugs\u2014consult a doctor before use
\r\n
\r\nDrug interactions:
\r\n\u2022 Blood pressure medication
\r\n\u2022 Antidepressants<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

Are Strattera and Focalin the Same Type of Medication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While Strattera and Focalin are both used to treat ADHD, they are not the same type of medication. Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and Focalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Each has a different mode of action in the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Access to various treatment options is valuable for patients because not everyone can take the first line of ADHD treatment\u2014CNS stimulants\u2014without complications. People with anxiety, cardiovascular, or substance abuse issues might have adverse reactions to stimulants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These patients might consider Strattera for ADHD treatment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Strattera?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Strattera is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It helps elevate levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain’s synapses, where these neurotransmitters help regulate attention, focus, memory, and mood. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t take central nervous system stimulants\u2014the first line treatment for ADHD\u2014because of anxiety or cardiovascular issues, Strattera may be a good alternative for you as it is a non-stimulant ADHD treatment<\/em>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Does Strattera Work?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As an SNRI, Strattera increases norepinephrine levels in your brain. Specifically, it prevents norepinephrine and serotonin from being absorbed into glial cells, which keeps these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, where they are needed for effective brain cell communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Norepinephrine is both a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a crucial role in your attentiveness, circulation, mood, and sleep-wake cycle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strattera can help to improve your attention span and reduce the impulsiveness or hyperactivity that patients with ADHD may experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Forms and Doses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can take Strattera by mouth in a capsule form with or without food. Depending on your doctor\u2019s advice, the dosage could be anywhere from 40 mg once a day up to a maximum daily dosage of 100 mg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve tried Strattera and decided it isn\u2019t the proper medication for your symptoms, consult with your doctor before stopping. Stopping Strattera suddenly can cause unwanted withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this, your healthcare provider will prescribe progressively lower and lower doses until it is safe to stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Strattera Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Strattera can treat ADHD symptoms like lack of attention or ability to listen, inability to follow through on tasks, disorganization, forgetfulness, and distraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

SNRIs<\/a> are primarily antidepressants and are prescribed to treat depression and anxiety. For people with comorbid ADHD, depression, or anxiety<\/a>, Strattera might be an effective treatment option to treat multiple diagnoses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is the Price of Strattera?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Without insurance, 30 capsules of Strattera can cost between $461.87 and $497.57, depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. The payment range should be outlined in your prescription coverage plan if you do have insurance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The FDA also recently approved a generic form of Strattera called atomoxetine, which could save you money at the pharmacy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strattera Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Strattera has some common side effects that include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n