Does Strattera give you energy like Adderall?

Strattera (atomoxetine) can help improve your attention if you have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which may make you feel like you have more energy. It is considered a nonstimulant medication, and it works differently than other ADHD medications. There have been reports of both drowsiness and trouble sleeping during clinical trials of Strattera in both children and adults.

Strattera differs from other ADHD medications in the way that it works in the brain. Specifically, it increases norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, but not in the mesocortical or mesolimbic regions. It also increases dopamine in the prefrontal cortex and does not affect reward-related areas of the brain. Some researchers believe this is one reason it has a low risk of abuse or dependence.

Does Strattera make you tired or awake?

Strattera can make you feel tired or more awake. During clinical studies, some patients with ADHD who took Strattera reported feeling tired or drowsy as a side effect. However, trouble sleeping was also commonly reported. This suggests Strattera could have either effect, and this will vary among individuals.

If you are experiencing significant tiredness or sleep disturbances while taking Strattera, talk to your healthcare provider.