What Happens If You Take Strattera & Adderall Together?

Medications for ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is treated with medications designed to regulate the chemicals in the brain that are not produced in correct amounts. Stimulants such as Adderall XR, an effective but potentially habit-forming drug, are one common treatment. Another more-recent development is Strattera (atomoxetine), which works a little differently in the brain but toward the same effect. In some cases, doctors may prescribe the two drugs in combination.

Reasons to Combine Medications

Some people may respond partially to either Adderall or Strattera, but find that either the medication alone wears off too fast, or that symptoms continue to be bothersome. Sometimes changing dosage doesn't help. In these cases, doctors may combine medications so that each one covers the areas where the other leaves off. The idea is that in combination, these two drugs will work better than either medication alone.

Interactions and Side Effects

There are no known adverse interactions between Adderall and Strattera. Although each drug has a laundry list of potential side effects, no new ones have been noted due to the combination. If your doctor does prescribe this combination of medicines, monitor yourself carefully so that you can report any changes, for better or worse.

References

• DrThomasEBrown.com: Atomoxetine and Stimulants in Combination for Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Four Case Reports
• Drugs.com: Drug Interactions between Adderall and Strattera
• Consumer Reports Blog: Parents: Don't Rush to Adderall XR, Concerta, Strattera