Key takeaways
Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Adderall XR (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine salts) are both medications used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, they belong to different medication classes. Atomoxetine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI), while Adderall XR is a stimulant. Atomoxetine is not a controlled substance, whereas Adderall XR is a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependency. Atomoxetine is typically taken once or twice a day, while Adderall XR is taken once daily. Atomoxetine is available as a generic, but Adderall XR is available in both generic and brand forms. Common side effects of atomoxetine include nausea, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping, while Adderall XR can cause dry mouth, poor appetite, and trouble sleeping. Both medications should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), but Adderall XR can interact with blood pressure medications and other drugs that affect serotonin levels.
