My doc is supposed to start me on Stratera tomorrow for ADHD. My psychologist wanted me to start on Concerta, but my Psychiatrist says it can be abused???? therefore the choice for Statera. Reading all your posts re: Statera I'm wondering if I should demand Concerta instead. My psychologist says I would know immediately if Concerta is right for me as opposed to Stratera (takes a couple weeks). Pleeeeeeeze, give me your opinions and insights. What should I do? I know you're not docs but your experts in my book!

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...

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...



Thanx a lot. I'm going in more informed.

After being on Straterra for one week, I can honestly say that I am disappointed, there is absolutely no motivation, they say you have to wait atleast four weeks. So I will ...concidering, I have never been medicated before, for this condition. I am a very very positive person, so I will give it some time. The cold feet and hands are still continueing. I was told the sexual side affect that I am feeling is like that of an antidepressant. No sensation at all ! I have a question out there for anyone. On a stimulant do you lose this sexual sensation also?

On a stimulant do you lose this sexual sensation also?

I personally haven't heard anyone report any sexual side effects on the stimulants.