Is there an alternative for Straterra?

Question

I am leaving my parent's health coverage in a short amount of time, and I am currently taking Straterra for ADHD. The medication is quite expensive, and I will not be able to afford it until I am back on health insurance. Can anyone recommend a good alternative for Straterra that would be less costly? I know that it means going back on stimulant-based medicines, but sadly I need to focus on cost. Also, if anyone has ever been in my shoes before, could you recommend any actions you took? Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Strattera is a drug that selectively boosts brain levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which, in the brain, serves an alerting and attentional role. As mentioned above, Wellbutrin does the same thing, but it also increases levels of dopamine in much the same fashion as Ritalin does, but Wellbutrin's effects tend to be less marked.

I would think that if you can substitute Wellbutrin somehow, that would indeed be a great alternative.

If you are stuck with non-prescription drugs then you could think about trying something like hydroxycut. (It's supposed to increase NE 40% but I wonder about the scientific rigor--or lack thereof--in making that determination.) This advice is assuming that you are healthy, have normal blood pressure, are not prone to excessive anxiety, et cetera.

Another highly-available drug that has helped me vastly with my own ADD problems is caffeine. The mechanism is different, but a good 200-400 dose really helps me "tune-in" in the mornings. Just don't abuse the heck out of it, especially in the afternoons as stays in your system for several hours and can produce sleep-onset insomnia.

Answer 2

I know that you said you didn't want to go back on stimulant forms but....

There is a program called "adderall achievers" which you can sign up for that will give you a few prescriptions for free. When I used to take medication for ADHD and money was an issue my Dr. helped me sign up for that.

There may also be other programs similar to that for other medications. Maybe you can ask your Doctor about it.

Answer 3

When my insurance would not pay for Straterra, the doc put me on Wellbutrin. Its labeled as an antidepressant but it works on the same principal as Straterra.

Answer 4

You probably should ask the doctor who put you on your current prescription if he can recommend any alternatives.