Qelbree vs. Strattera for ADHD: What’s the Difference?

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common developmental conditions that children experience. In 2016, it was estimated that over 6 million children in the U.S. had ADHD. This condition also affects about 10 million U.S. adults.

People with ADHD may experience problems with staying focused, feeling restless, or making decisions without thinking. And while many people feel like this occasionally, these symptoms can be severe and interfere with daily activities for people living with ADHD.

There are many ways to treat ADHD, including therapy, medications, and even a video game. The majority of ADHD medications are stimulants, but there are a few non-stimulant options. Two of these non-stimulants are Qelbree (extended-release viloxazine) and Strattera (atomoxetine).

Here, we’ll discuss Qelbree and Strattera and the key differences between them.

How do Qelbree and Strattera work for ADHD?

Qelbree and Strattera are both selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs). The way NRIs treat ADHD isn’t fully understood. But it’s believed they work by raising levels of norepinephrine in the brain.

Norepinephrine is a chemical messenger that’s important for many bodily functions, including focus and attention. Low levels of norepinephrine are linked to ADHD. So Qelbree and Strattera work to help raise these levels.

What are the biggest differences between Qelbree and Strattera?

Qelbree and Strattera are similar, since they’re both in the same class of medications. But there are a few key differences between them.

How often you take them

Both medications come as capsules, but Qelbree is an extended-release (ER) capsule. This means it releases medication slowly over several hours and is taken once a day.

Strattera can be taken once a day. But it can also be taken twice a day, especially if you’re taking a higher daily dose. A healthcare provider may prescribe a lower dose twice daily to try to lower the amount of side effects a person is experiencing.

If you have to swallow the pills whole

Another difference between the two is how you would take them. Strattera capsules shouldn’t be opened. This means you have to swallow the capsule whole. This may be difficult for some people, especially younger children.

Qelbree can be swallowed whole. But you also have the option to open the capsule and sprinkle its contents onto a teaspoon of applesauce or pudding. So it may be an easier option if swallowing pills is tough for your child.

How effective are Qelbree and Strattera at treating ADHD?

Both Qelbree and Strattera are effective options for treating ADHD. The studies discussed below mainly compare these medications to a placebo (a pill with no medication in it).

In phase 3 clinical trials (the last step needed to seek FDA approval), Qelbree was effective for children, adolescents, and adults.

Multiple studies conducted since 2009 have shown that Strattera is effective for treating ADHD in children and adolescents. In a study with adult participants, Strattera was most effective when they took at least 80 mg per day. Adults in the study also noticed a greater effect the longer they took the medication.

There are currently no studies available comparing Qelbree and Strattera to each other. So we’re unable to say if one is better than the other. Some people may have better results with one medication. But this varies from person to person.

How long do Qelbree and Strattera take to start working?

It might take some time for you to feel the full effects of Qelbree or Strattera. People taking Qelbree may experience some symptom improvement in 2 weeks. But it could take up to 6 weeks for the medication to fully kick in.

Some people start to feel effects from Strattera in as little as a week. But it could take up to a month to get the medication’s full benefits.

What side effects are associated with Qelbree and Strattera for ADHD?

Qelbree side effects and Strattera side effects are similar. The following are common with both medications:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Feeling tired (fatigue)

• Loss of appetite

• Drowsiness

• Stomach pain

• Irritability

Both medications also have a boxed warning (the strongest warning given by the FDA) for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The risk of this is low for both medications. If you or your child experiences any changes in mood or behavior after starting either Qelbree or Strattera, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Both Qelbree and Strattera are known to raise blood pressure and heart rate. However, Strattera is also linked to sudden death in people with existing heart problems. If you have any heart conditions, including high blood pressure, make sure your healthcare provider is aware of this before you start either Qelbree or Strattera. You should also ask if they want you to check your blood pressure and heart rate at home.

Qelbree and Strattera are also both known to cause people with untreated bipolar disorder to experience mania. This is an extreme high mood that can cause risky behaviors, unstoppable racing thoughts, and a severe lack of sleep. If you notice any sudden mood changes after starting Qelbree or Strattera, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Are Qelbree and Strattera addictive?

No. Neither Qelbree nor Strattera are known to be habit-forming.

Many ADHD medications belong to a group of medications called central nervous system stimulants. These medications have a risk of physical dependence and addiction. Because of this risk, they’re considered controlled substances.

Qelbree and Strattera are referred to as non-stimulant medications and work differently from stimulants. They aren’t controlled substances and shouldn’t be addictive. These two medications are possible options if you’re concerned about the habit-forming potential of stimulant ADHD medications.

How do I save on Qelbree and Strattera?

There are many ways to save on Qelbree and Strattera. Both are available as brand-name medications. But you can also find Strattera as a lower-cost generic. GoodRx can help you navigate many ways to save on your prescription.

• Save with GoodRx. GoodRx can help you save over 90% off the average retail price of the generic version of Strattera. Generic atomoxetine’s price at certain pharmacies is less than $30 with a free GoodRx discount.

• Save with patient assistance programs. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for brand-name Strattera’s patient assistance program, which offers the medication free of cost.

• Save with a copay savings card. If you have commercial insurance and meet eligibility requirements, Qelbree’s price is as little as $20 using a savings card from the manufacturer.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

Edited by:

Mandy Armitage, MD

Mandy Armitage, MD, has combined her interests in clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.

Reviewed by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts