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Well, stellinator, here's the deal. Concerta, like many of the meds on the market for ADD, is methylphenidate. It is a central nervous stimulant and yes, it does carry with it the potential for abuse.

Straterra is not a stimulant. It's mechanism of action on the neurotransmitter norepinephrine more closely resembles that of *some* of the antidepressant medications. It does not carry the same risk of abuse. Most females experience the side effects of Straterra as being mild and transient. Adult males, on the other hand, are reporting persistent sexual side effects. You may see some benefit from Straterra in a couple of weeks, but it may take a couple of months to see full benefit.

The benefits of Concerta are that it acts immediately and more is known about its side effects. Straterra is less likely to be addictive, but is the "devil you don't know". You, together with your doctor, have to weigh the risks vs the potential benefits.

And, by the way, I think the surest way to NOT be prescribed a stimulant is to demand it. The docs are going to assume you are a "druggie" if you take that approach...