Key takeaways:
Qelbree (viloxazine) and Strattera (atomoxetine) are two nonstimulant medications that can be used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Qelbree and Strattera work in different ways and have different dosages. But both medications share common side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and tiredness.
Qelbree and Strattera are available as brand-name medications. But you can also find Strattera as a lower-cost generic. GoodRx can help make your prescription more affordable.
Save on related medications
There are two main types of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulants are usually a first choice. But they don’t always work, and they can sometimes cause intolerable side effects. In this case, prescribers may suggest a nonstimulant medication.
Qelbree (viloxazine) and Strattera (atomoxetine) are two popular nonstimulant ADHD medications. But even though they belong to the same medication class, they work in slightly different ways. There are also dosage and interaction differences to consider.
Below are seven things to keep in mind when comparing Qelbree versus Strattera for ADHD.
1. Qelbree and Strattera work in different ways
Qelbree and Strattera are selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (NRIs). The way NRIs treat ADHD isn’t fully understood. But it’s believed they work by helping norepinephrine stay in the brain longer.
Norepinephrine is a chemical messenger that’s important for many bodily functions, including focus and attention. Low levels of norepinephrine are linked to ADHD. Qelbree and Strattera work to help make norepinephrine available in your brain for longer.
But Qelbree affects more than norepinephrine. It also activates certain serotonin receptors (binding sites) in your brain. Serotonin is a hormone that plays a role in mood, memory, and more. Researchers don’t fully understand how serotonin is connected to ADHD. But when Qelbree attaches to these serotonin binding sites, it seems to help with some ADHD symptoms, such as impulsive behaviors.
2. Qelbree and Strattera are approved for the same uses
Qelbree and Strattera have the same FDA-approved use. They can help manage ADHD symptoms for adults and children ages 6 and older. Qelbree and Strattera are intended for long-term use. You need to take them every day for them to keep working.
3. Qelbree and Strattera have different dosages
Qelbree and Strattera come as capsules that you take by mouth. But Qelbree is an extended-release (ER) capsule. This means it releases medication slowly over several hours. So you’ll need to take it only once a day.
Strattera is not an ER capsule. You might take it only once a day. But some people need to take doses twice a day. This is especially true if you’re taking a higher daily dose (more than 80 mg per day). A healthcare professional may prescribe a lower dose twice a day to try to limit side effects.
4. You must swallow Strattera whole, but you can sprinkle Qelbree on certain soft foods
Another difference between Qelbree and Strattera is how you would take them. You shouldn’t open Strattera capsules. You should swallow the capsule whole. This may be difficult for some people, especially younger children.
You can swallow Qelbree capsules whole. But you also have the option to open the capsule and sprinkle its contents onto a teaspoon or tablespoon of applesauce or pudding. So it may be an easier option if swallowing pills is tough for you or your child.
5. It may take several weeks to feel the full effects of Qelbree or Strattera
It might take 1 to 2 months for you to feel the full effects of Qelbree or Strattera.
People taking Qelbree may experience some symptom improvement within the first 2 weeks. But it usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the medication to have its full effects.
Some people start to feel effects from Strattera in as little as 1 week. But for most people, it takes 4 to 8 weeks to feel its full effects.
6. Qelbree and Strattera have similar common side effects
Qelbree side effects and Strattera side effects are similar. The following are common with both medications:
Nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Drowsiness
Stomach pain
Irritability
Both medications also have a boxed warning (the FDA’s strongest warning for medications) 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 your prescriber immediately.
Both Qelbree and Strattera can raise blood pressure and heart rate. But Strattera is also linked to sudden death in people with existing heart problems. If you have a heart condition, including high blood pressure, make sure to tell your prescriber before you start Qelbree or Strattera. You should also ask if they want you to check your blood pressure and heart rate at home.
These are not all the possible side effects of Qelbree and Strattera. Ask your prescriber and pharmacist about the risks of each medication before starting either.
7. Qelbree and Strattera have different interactions
Qelbree and Strattera interact with different medications and substances. The table below highlights notable interactions for each medication. They aren’t complete lists of all possible interactions. Share an updated medication list with your prescriber and pharmacist before starting Qelbree or Strattera.
| Notable Qelbree interactions | Notable Strattera interactions |
|---|---|
|
|
Beyond the medications and substances listed above, Qelbree and Strattera also interact with alcohol. Drinking can worsen common side effects of these medications, such as nausea, vomiting, and irritability. So it’s best to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Qelbree or Strattera.
Can you take Qelbree and Strattera together?
No. You shouldn’t take Qelbree and Strattera together. They work very similarly. Combining them could raise your risk of side effects.
If you feel your ADHD symptoms aren’t well managed with one medication, tell your prescriber. They may suggest dosage changes or trying a different ADHD medication.
How to save on Qelbree and Strattera
There are 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 as low as $15.30 with a free GoodRx discount.
Save with a copay savings card. If you have commercial insurance and meet eligibility requirements, Qelbree’s price is as little as $20 per prescription using a savings card from the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions
No. Neither Qelbree nor Strattera is known to be addictive. Many ADHD medications are stimulants. These medications have a risk of physical dependence and addiction. Because of this risk, they’re considered controlled substances.
Qelbree and Strattera are nonstimulant medications and work differently from stimulants. They aren’t controlled substances and don’t have a risk of dependence. These two medications are possible options if you’re concerned about the habit-forming potential of stimulant ADHD medications.
Yes, you should be able to switch between Qelbree and Strattera (or vice versa). But there are no standard directions to follow for making this switch. And there’s no dose equivalency chart available when comparing the two. So carefully follow your prescriber’s instructions for switching when changing between them.
Qelbree is not an anxiety treatment. But there is some evidence that suggests it may help reduce feelings of anxiety in people who have both ADHD and an anxiety disorder. Larger studies are needed to confirm whether Qelbree can effectively treat anxiety and who might benefit most from it.
No. Neither Qelbree nor Strattera is known to be addictive. Many ADHD medications are stimulants. These medications have a risk of physical dependence and addiction. Because of this risk, they’re considered controlled substances.
Qelbree and Strattera are nonstimulant medications and work differently from stimulants. They aren’t controlled substances and don’t have a risk of dependence. These two medications are possible options if you’re concerned about the habit-forming potential of stimulant ADHD medications.
Yes, you should be able to switch between Qelbree and Strattera (or vice versa). But there are no standard directions to follow for making this switch. And there’s no dose equivalency chart available when comparing the two. So carefully follow your prescriber’s instructions for switching when changing between them.
Qelbree is not an anxiety treatment. But there is some evidence that suggests it may help reduce feelings of anxiety in people who have both ADHD and an anxiety disorder. Larger studies are needed to confirm whether Qelbree can effectively treat anxiety and who might benefit most from it.
The bottom line
Qelbree (viloxazine) and Strattera (atomoxetine) are effective nonstimulant options for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The two medications work differently and have different dosages. But they share many common side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Qelbree or Strattera might be a choice if you can’t take stimulant ADHD medications. Discuss these two medications with your prescriber to see if either is right for you.
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References
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