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Strattera vs. Concerta

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

Key takeaways

Strattera (atomoxetine) and Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release) are both medications that treat ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder). Concerta is a stimulant medication, but Strattera isn’t. They’re both typically taken once a day. In general, stimulants like Concerta are first-choice options for treating ADHD, while non-stimulants like Strattera are a second-choice option. Stimulants like Concerta start working the day you start taking it. But Strattera takes several weeks to work. Concerta is a controlled substance, but Strattera isn’t. They can both cause nausea, headache, and lowered appetite. Strattera, though, is more likely to cause dry mouth and constipation.

Atomoxetine

(Strattera)

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methylphenidate ER

 

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Summary for Strattera

Prescription only

Atomoxetine, also known by its brand name Strattera, is a non-stimulant medication. It's used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children ages 6 years and up. Atomoxetine (Strattera) comes as capsules that are swallowed whole. You take your dosage either once or twice a day. Side effects are stomach upset and low appetite. It's not a controlled substance like some ADHD medications are. But atomoxetine (Strattera) still has a few serious risks like behavioral changes and heart problems.

Indications for Strattera

Pros and Cons for Strattera

Pros

  • A good non-stimulant option for both adults and children with ADHD
  • Can take with or without food
  • Not a controlled substance, so there isn't a risk of addiction and it doesn't have special rules when filling a prescription

Cons

Common Side Effects for Strattera

Adults:

  • Nausea (26%)
  • Dry mouth (20%)
  • Low appetite (16%)
  • Trouble sleeping (15%)
  • Feeling tired (10%)

Children:

  • Headache (19%)
  • Stomach pain (18%)
  • Low appetite (16%)
  • Sleepiness (11%)
  • Vomiting (11%)
  • Nausea (10%)

Warnings for Strattera

  • Risk of suicidal thoughts
  • Severe liver damage
  • Serious heart problems
  • Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
  • Aggressive behavior or other changes in behavior
  • Risk of mania in people with bipolar disorder
  • Long-lasting and painful erection
  • Slowed growth in children

Summary for Concerta

Prescription only

Methylphenidate extended-release (ER) is a first-choice option for people with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This once-daily medication can start to work within 2 hours and can last throughout the day. Methylphenidate ER can cause difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite. It also has a potential risk of misuse and dependency and is thus a controlled substance.

Indications for Concerta

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Pros and Cons for Concerta

Pros

  • First-choice medication for ADHD
  • Taken only once per day
  • Available in many different forms (e.g., pills, chewable tablet, liquid)
  • Some brands available in lower-cost generic form
  • Can be prescribed for children as young as 6 years old

Cons

  • Has a risk of misuse and dependency
  • A controlled medication, so there are special requirements for getting the prescription filled
  • Dose needs to be raised and lowered slowly to avoid bothersome side effects like distress and trouble sleeping
  • Not the best choice for pregnant or breastfeeding females or people with heart conditions
  • Can interact with certain blood pressure medications and depression medications

Common Side Effects for Concerta

Side effects might differ depending on the formulation and brand. In general:

Warnings for Concerta

  • Misuse and dependence
  • Serious heart problems
  • Changes in behavior or thoughts
  • Prolonged and painful erection
  • Blood circulation problem (Raynaud's phenomenon)
  • Slowed growth in children
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Drug interactions

Prices with our coupons for Strattera vs. Concerta

Price Card Drug Icon
Atomoxetine30 capsules / 40mg
$28.28$77.26
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Price Card Drug Icon
Methylphenidate ER30 tablets / 36mg
$35.74$359.60
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