Straterra is actually an antidepressant and if used with Wellbutrin, dosages may need to be adjusted on one or both of the medications. (My sister is a pharmacist so I've learned a few things, and she is on Wellbutrin for depression and was temporarily on Straterra but then switched to Adderall).

Not all ADHD medications affect the same neurotransmitters or in the same way. Adderall and Vyvanse(lisdextroamphetimine) positively affect dopamine in the brain, to a larger degree than Straterra or Wellbutrin. Most individuals with ADHD (whether hyperactive type, combined, or primarily inattentive) have a better response to these stimulants than to an antidepressant alone.

I have inattentive ADHD and I am taking Effexor XR for anxiety (also used for depression) and Vyvanse (similar to Adderall but new and improved and not always covered by all insurances). The Vyvanse works great for me. It helps with attention and esp. with my working memory. I'm able to organize my thoughts better and remember multiple steps in my mind.

Good luck in finding the right medication and dosage. Not all doctors are as knowledgeable regarding ADHD medications, and some are afraid to prescribe a stimulant, even though clinical trials and experience have shown them to be the most effective for treatment of ADHD.

Elaine

Quote

Hi there:

I just wanted to make sure that you saw the ADHD Medication Channel here.

You might also find some helpful expert information in our Expert Answers section - lots of user questions and doctor answers about specific meds including Strattera and Wellbutrin.

I hope this helps!

Quote

I too am on Strattera, have been for about 3 months now. Before being diagnosed with ADD/HD, I had was being treated for depression and was on effexor. My current Dr. took me off effexor and put me on Strattera. She said I couldn't be on both at the same time.

The effexor worked really well for stabilizing my moods, but did nothing for my concentration or focus issues. The Strattera started out working really well for my concentration and focus issues, once I had worked up to 40mg. But, the same as you, I didn't show much improvement when I moved up to 60mg. Now it seems, after being on it for about 3 months, it's not helping at all. I have gone back to not being able to focus nor concentrate for more than as few minutes at a time and I feel like I have a million things at once competing for my attention, even when I don't(if that makes any sense).

Also once moving up to the 60mg, I feel exhausted most of the day and have nausea for at least 3 hours after taking it(even if taken with a meal). I'm glad to know that it is possible to treat both ADD/HD and Depression at the same time. My Dr. lead me to believe that I could only treat one or the other. I have an appointment this coming week, and I am going to ask her straight forward, to make sure I didn't misunderstand her initial statement(I have been know to do that at times). And if she continues to tell me I can't treat both, I will then know it's time to find a new Dr.

Thanks to everyone who takes the time to write about their experiences. It's wonderful to know that you aren't alone on this wonderful journey through the world of ADD/HD.

Quote

Of course it is possible to treat ADHD and depression at the same time. My sister is being treated for depression and ADHD. She's had difficulties with finding the right medication for her depression so she is on both Wellbutrin and Effexor XR for her depression. She was initially on Straterra as well for the ADHD but is now taking Adderall.

I take the Effexor XR for my anxiety and Vyvanse (similar to Adderall) for my ADHD. My husband takes medication for depression, heart conditions, a mood stabilizer and Adderall for his ADHD. I have a nephew who is 18 and I know 3 others who all take medication for Bipolar and ADHD.

If your doctor believes you can't treat both depression and ADHD, you need to find another doctor.

Elaine

Quote

That seems to be the message I'm getting from reading on here. Like I said, I may have just misunderstood, it was, after all, before I started any meds for my ADHD, so I may not have been paying enough attention. LOL I have an appointment next Tuesday and I plan to ask her.

I have been looking for other doctors that may have more experience with ADD/HD adults. She admittedly doesn't have but a few adult patients, and most of them are on Strattera, but I live in an area that doesn't offer very much variety in doctors. I have to drive 1hr and 20 minutes to see her and she is one of the closest ones. But, I will drive further if necessary, I just want to feel better. I've spent the better part of my adult life being treated for depression without much success. Now that I know it was more than just depression, I can understand why my past meds didn't work on all areas of concern.

I've checked many of the sites listing doctors by profession, but none list whether or not a psychiatrist is an adult ADD/HD specialist. Does anyone have any suggestions other than start calling every psychiatrist in my provider listing?

Thanks

Quote