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Strattera for ADHD
Atomoxetine — Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Medication decisions should only be made with a licensed psychiatric provider based on your individual needs.
What Is Strattera?
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the first FDA-approved non-stimulant medication for ADHD. Unlike stimulants such as Adderall, Vyvanse, or Concerta, Strattera is not a controlled substance, has no abuse potential, and does not cause the "high" associated with stimulant medications.
Strattera works differently from stimulants — it selectively inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine, providing 24-hour ADHD symptom control. Because it takes 4-6 weeks to reach full effectiveness, it requires patience during the initial treatment period.
Approved by the FDA in 2002, Strattera is particularly valuable for patients with co-occurring anxiety, substance use history, or those who prefer to avoid stimulant medications.
Who Is Strattera Best For?
Anxiety + ADHD
Stimulants can sometimes worsen anxiety. Strattera treats ADHD without the jitteriness or anxiety increase that some patients experience with stimulants.
History of Substance Use
As a non-controlled substance, Strattera is a safer option for patients with current or past substance use concerns.
Stimulant Intolerance
Patients who experience significant side effects from stimulants (severe appetite loss, insomnia, mood changes) often tolerate Strattera well.
All-Day Coverage Needed
Strattera works around the clock — including evenings and mornings — without the wear-off effects common with stimulants.
Learn more about ADHD: ADHD Guide →
How Does Strattera Work?
Strattera works by selectively blocking the norepinephrine transporter (NET) in the prefrontal cortex. By preventing norepinephrine from being reabsorbed, more of this neurotransmitter remains available to support attention, organization, and impulse control.
Interestingly, because there are few dopamine transporters in the prefrontal cortex, blocking the norepinephrine transporter also increases dopamine levels in this brain region — providing a dual benefit without the broader dopamine effects that stimulants produce.
Unlike stimulants that work immediately, Strattera builds up gradually in your system. Most patients begin noticing improvements within 1-2 weeks, with full therapeutic effects typically reached at 4-6 weeks.
Common Side Effects
Strattera's side effects differ significantly from stimulants. Most side effects are mild, occur early in treatment, and improve over time.
Common Side Effects
- • Upset stomach or nausea
- • Decreased appetite
- • Fatigue or drowsiness
- • Dry mouth
- • Dizziness
- • Constipation
- • Mood changes during adjustment
When to Contact Your Provider
- • Signs of liver problems (dark urine, jaundice)
- • Severe mood changes or suicidal thoughts
- • Allergic reaction
- • Difficulty urinating
- • Persistent side effects after 2 weeks
Considering Non-Stimulant ADHD Treatment?
Our licensed providers can evaluate whether Strattera or another ADHD medication is right for you — via same-day telepsychiatry appointments across NC.
Other Medication Guides
Adderall Guide
What Adderall is, how it works for ADHD, side effects, and when to see a psychiatric provider.
Vyvanse Guide
Vyvanse for ADHD — how it works, benefits over short-acting stimulants, side effects, and provider guidance.
Concerta Guide
Concerta (methylphenidate ER) for ADHD — mechanism, dosing, side effects, and when to seek care.
Lexapro Guide
Lexapro (escitalopram) for anxiety and depression — how SSRIs work, side effects, and treatment guidance.
Zoloft Guide
Zoloft (sertraline) for anxiety, depression, and PTSD — mechanism, side effects, and provider guidance.
Wellbutrin Guide
Wellbutrin (bupropion) for depression — how this NDRI differs from SSRIs, side effects, and candidacy.
Prozac Guide
Prozac (fluoxetine) for depression and anxiety — the original SSRI, how it works, and treatment guidance.