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Loading...Strattera and modafinil are popular treatment options for chronic fatigue and various other conditions. While they treat similar conditions, they belong to different drug classes, have distinct mechanisms of action, and pose varying health risks. In this article, we compare both of them and explore their differences, effectiveness, and benefits.
Whether you’re looking to use either of them to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or enhance cognitive function and ultimately improve productivity, you will discover the most suitable med for your specific needs.
What Is Strattera?
Straterra is a brand name for a drug called atomoxetine. It is the first and only non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA to treat ADHD, and it belongs to a class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). While it is not as popular as Adderall, Straterra effectively manages the core symptoms of ADHD, including impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. It works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and promoting balanced neurotransmitter activity, an action that brings about improved focus, impulse control, and attention span [2][3].
Strattera is not as strong as Adderall, but it serves as an alternative treatment option for people who cannot tolerate stimulant medications commonly used to treat ADHD. While it is generally well-tolerated, it should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare provider.
What Is Modafinil?
Modafinil is a medication that promotes wakefulness in individuals who find it difficult to stay awake during the day. Commonly sold under the brand name Provigil, it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). In some cases, doctors prescribe it as an off-label treatment for ADHD, chronic fatigue, depression, and certain other medical conditions [1].
The drug is also commonly used off-label by healthy individuals looking to enhance their cognitive abilities. It is believed to increase alertness, boost memory, improve focus, increase mental processing speed, and ultimately enhance productivity. This is why celebrities, entrepreneurs, presidents, students, and top-level executives of Fortune 500 corporations take it.
Modafinil works by altering the levels of dopamine and certain other chemicals in the brain that regulate mood, sleep, and wakefulness. But while it is effective and safe, it may not be suitable for certain users. It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting treatment with it.
Compare Strattera and Modafinil
To better understand the individual characteristics of these medications, let’s compare them, examining their dose strengths, approved & off-label use, and key considerations. The information provided in the following table will bring you a step closer to making an informed decision regarding which one to use.
| Drug | Strattera | Modafinil |
| What class does this drug belong to? | selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor | eugeroic, or wakefulness-promoting agent |
| What form does it come in? | oral capsule | oral tablet |
| What strengths does it come in? | 10 mg, 18 mg, 25 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg, 100 mg | 100 mg, 200 mg |
| What is it used for? | treatment of ADHD |
|
| What is its half-life? | 4–5 hours | 12–15 hours |
| Is it a controlled substance? | no | yes |
| Does it have the potential for abuse? | no | yes |
| Is there a risk of withdrawal from this drug? | yes | yes |
| How long does it take for the drug to become effective? | may take several weeks for its effects to become noticeable | effects become noticeable within 30–60 minutes |
| What is the duration of treatment? | long-term | long-term |
At this point, it is worth noting that the information provided in the above table is based on general information. Different individuals may have varying experiences due to differences in their biological makeup. For example, modafinil may last longer in one individual vs. another. It is important to seek advice from a doctor or healthcare provider before taking any of these medications.
Strattera vs. Modafinil: Difference Between…
One question most people looking to find an effective treatment for ADHD or cognitive enhancement ask is, Strattera vs. modafinil: What is the difference between them? Well, while both medications prove effective in treating the primary conditions they were specifically developed for, they have some noticeable differences.
One of the key differences, as we mentioned earlier, is their scheduled class. While modafinil is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, Strattera isn’t. This simply indicates that it doesn’t have a potential for abuse. However, this does not make modafinil less favorable, as it has an incredibly low potential for misuse and addiction, especially when compared to stimulants like Adderall. In fact, Oxford and Harvard researchers deemed it the “world’s first safe ‘smart drug’” for that reason.
Another major difference between them is based on what they’re specifically approved for. While Strattera is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD, modafinil doesn’t have approval for that use. Doctors just prescribe it off-label to manage the associated symptoms.
One more notable difference between both medications lies in their duration of effects. While modafinil’s effects kick in within 30 minutes to one hour and typically last for 12–15 hours, Strattera requires several weeks (usually 4–8 weeks) of consistent use to bring about significant improvement in ADHD symptoms, as it takes time to build up in the system. Its half-life is just 4–5 hours [4][5].
Dosages
Strattera and modafinil are both effective medications, but how they’re used can affect their effectiveness. For the best results, they must be taken correctly. Note that their dosing and time of administration may vary from individual to individual based on factors such as weight, age, sex, metabolic rate, etc. In the meanwhile, here is a general usage guide for both of them.
Strattera
Strattera is approved for use in adults and children over the age of 6 living with ADHD. For adults, the starting dose is 40 mg taken once per day. However, after monitoring your response to the medication for 3 days to 4 weeks, the doctor may increase the daily dose to 80 mg or the maximum dosage of 100 mg per day.
For children aged 6 years and older, the starting dosage is typically 0.5 mg per kg. Consequently, a child who weighs 80 kg may be given a dose of 40 mg. As with adult treatment, a doctor may increase the dose to 1.2 mg or 1.4 mg per kg for best results after observing the child’s response for days or weeks [6].
In some cases, doctors typically start patients on the lowest dose of 5 mg intending to find the lowest effective dose.
Modafinil
The recommended starting dose of modafinil is 200 mg. However, it may be increased or reduced based on the user’s tolerability and sensitivity, respectively. Note that the dosage may vary from individual to individual based on their response and the specific condition looking to be treated. The condition to be treated may also affect the time of administration. A doctor is in the best position to specify how to use this medication.
Regardless of what drug you are taking, it is important to consult a doctor to help determine the appropriate starting dose, duration of use, time of administration, and necessary adjustments based on your specific needs.
Side Effects and Safety
Strattera and modafinil are generally safe, but they pose risks of side effects, just like all other drugs. Here are the mild and severe adverse effects associated with both of them [7][8]:
| Drug | Common Side Effects | Severe Side Effects |
| Strattera |
|
|
| Modafinil |
|
|
It is worth noting that the table above does not reflect the complete list of possible adverse effects that may result from the use of modafinil or Strattera. Consult a doctor for a more comprehensive list. Also, you can refer to the information leaflet in their respective drug packaging.
The severe adverse effects associated with both medications are rare and are mostly caused by an overdose and other forms of misuse. This is why it is important to strictly adhere to their recommended instruction for use.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that modafinil and Strattera may not be safe for certain users. For example, modafinil is only approved for use in individuals 17 years of age and older. It is contraindicated in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with a history of heart attack, high blood pressure, and certain other medical conditions.
On the other hand, Strattera is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to its active ingredient. It should not be used by patients with cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, severe liver impairment, and certain other medical conditions [9]. Consult a doctor before starting treatment with any medication.
Interaction with Other Meds, Food, and Alcohol
Before taking either of the medications, it is important to be aware of the drugs they interact with, as well as if they interact with food and alcohol. Interactions can increase the risk of adverse effects and, in some cases, reduce the effectiveness of one or more of the meds taken concomitantly. Let’s take a look at the substances Strattera and modafinil interact with.
Modafinil is known to interact with antifungals, antibiotics, blood thinners, birth control pills, hormonal medications, and antidepressants. It also interacts with alcohol, leading to a worsening of possible adverse effects and even a complete blackout. Modafinil can be taken with or without food; however, fatty foods are an exception, as they can delay absorption and ultimately delay its onset of action.
On the other hand, Strattera interacts with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, antihistamines, sleep medications, and antidepressants, among others. Do not take alcohol shortly before or after taking this drug, as it can increase the risk of adverse effects occurring [10][11].
Note that it is always a great idea to consult a doctor before starting treatment with a new medication while using other drugs.
Where to Buy These Nootropics Online?
Several online pharmacies sell modafinil and Strattera meds. However, it is important to prioritize safety when purchasing, as many fake vendors sell counterfeit versions. If you’re interested in getting high-quality meds at the best possible price, then here are a few pharmacies to order from.
BuyModafinilOnline
BuyModafinilOnline (BMO) is a reputable and trustworthy online pharmacy with a proven track record of selling high-quality medications and providing excellent customer service. But while it sells modafinil and a wide range of other popular “smart drugs,” it does not sell Strattera.
BMO fulfills orders to most parts of the world, so it likely ships to your location (you can confirm that on its shipping page). It employs Registered Airmail and Express Mail Service (EMS) for speedy and smooth deliveries. The shipping time generally ranges from 7–12 business days for EMS shipping to 10–18 business days for Airmail shipping if you’re placing an order from the US, the UK, New Zealand, and some other countries. Generally, shipping time may vary based on shipping location.
It also offers US domestic shipping via USPS Priority Mail and UK domestic shipping via Royal Mail. Orders shipped via these shipping options typically arrive within 3–4 business days or even overnight. This makes it ideal for individuals interested in getting their orders delivered in a short time.
The vendor offers lots of incentives to encourage customers to remain loyal. For example, it offers free shipping on all orders worth $130, free sample pills, and 10 free pills to returning customers. It also offers a special 23% discount to those who make payments with Bitcoin. However, it accepts other payment methods for easy transactions, including MasterCard, Visa, PayPal, Bill Pay, and Zelle.
Afinil
Afinil is yet another reliable online pharmacy that sells high-quality modafinil pills at an affordable price. It has several hundred positive customer reviews, which is indicative of the quality of its services.
Like BMO, Afinil ships to most parts of the world via EMS and Airmail. It fulfills orders relatively fast, with orders to the US, the UK, New Zealand, and some other countries arriving within 7–12 business days with EMS and 10–18 business days with Airmail. It fulfills deliveries to other parts of the world within 14–30 days. For an even faster delivery, the vendor offers US-to-US shipping via USPS Priority Mail and UK-to-UK shipping via Royal Mail. While domestic shipping takes 3–4 business days, there’s an option for overnight delivery.
The vendor provides free shipping on all orders worth $130, a special 24% off payments made with Bitcoin, and $25 off to returning customers. This is not to mention other profitable offers it makes available via coupon codes and vouchers. Besides, Afinil provides a 100% money-back guarantee, meaning that you bear zero risks of loss (if you follow due process). The pharmacy provides either a full refund or free reshipment if it fails to deliver an order within the stipulated time. Its accepted methods of payment include credit cards (Visa or MasterCard), American Express (AmEx), PayPal, Zelle, and Bill Pay.
BuyModa
BuyModa is also a trustworthy online pharmacy you can bank on for affordable pricing, high-quality meds, fast shipping, and hassle-free transactions. It fulfills orders to most parts of the world via international shipping. Like the two other vendors listed in this guide, it equally provides a 100% money-back guarantee. Thus, you can rest assured you will get either a full refund or a new parcel reshipped to you at no extra cost if it gets damaged during delivery.
Some of the benefits this vendor provides for shoppers include a special 20% discount on all orders paid for in Bitcoin, 20% extra pills for returning customers, and 30 free modafinil pills on all orders worth $150 and above. BuyModa also offers parcel tracking, so you can pinpoint the specific location of your parcel at every step of the way until it reaches your doorstep.
While it guarantees the fulfillment of all orders within 30 days, customers ordering from the US, the UK, and the EU, among certain other countries, can get their parcels within 4–14 days. BuyModa accepts the following payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, PayID, PayPal, SWIFT wire transfers, Zelle, and BPay.
BMO, Afinil, and BuyModa, among a plethora of online pharmacies, do not sell Strattera because it is not in demand. However, it is available on Amazon if you’re interested in getting it. Remember to consult your doctor before starting treatment with any medication.
The Verdict: Strattera vs. Modafinil
Strattera and modafinil are distinct medications that can be used to manage the symptoms of ADHD and certain other medical conditions effectively. Strattera is specifically approved for ADHD, while modafinil is primarily approved to treat narcolepsy, SWSD, and OSA. However, no one is exactly better than the other. The best medication for you will depend on what you’re looking to achieve. Because modafinil provides 12–15 hours of action, it may be a better option for individuals who find they need to stay awake, alert, focused, and mentally sharp for longer durations. On the flip side, Strattera may be preferable for individuals who need milder effects and a shorter duration of action.
What’s more, for some users, Strattera makes them feel extremely drowsy after taking it. On the other hand, modafinil is known to provide wakefulness without causing sudden energy crashes. However, it is important to remember that the effects of these medications can vary from user to user. It is always best to consult a doctor, as they can help determine the best medication, dosage, and adjustments based on your specific condition.
References
- Modafinil. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Wikipedia.org.
- Strattera (Atomoxetine) Side Effects, Uses, Dosages, and Warnings. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Additudemag.com.
- Strattera Non-Stimulant ADHD Medication. Written by Vincent Iannelli, MD. Medically reviewed by Dale Garber, MD. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Verywellhealth.com.
- Strattera (Atomoxetine). By Kathleen Smith, Ph.D., LPC. Medically reviewed by Merihan Raouf, PharmD. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Psycom.net.
- How Long Does Modafinil Stay in Your System? By Alyssa. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Banyantreatmentcenter.com.
- Strattera Dosage: Forms, Strengths, How to Take, and More. Written by Malini Ghosha. Medically reviewed by Alex Brewer, PharmD, MBA. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Healthline.com.
- 9 Strattera Side Effects You Should Know About. Written by Kristine Foley, PharmD. Medically reviewed by Tegan Smedley, PharmD, BCPS, APh. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Goodrx.com.
- Modafinil: MedlinePlus Drug Information. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Medlineplus.gov.
- Atomoxetine. By Douglas Fedder, Himanshu Patel, and Abdolreza Saadabadi. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
- The Dangers of Mixing Strattera (Atomoxetine) & Alcohol. By The Recovery Village. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Therecoveryvillage.com.
- Strattera (Atomoxetine HCI). Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Interactions. Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP. Retrieved: July 9, 2023. Rxlist.com.
Author Details
MBBS, MD - Psychiatry, Consultant Psychiatrist
MBBS, Doctor Of Medicine MD
Head Modafinil Researcher
