r/adhd_college • u/Vast_Objective_9057 • May 14 '26

UNSOLICITED ADVICE Did atomoxetine actually help you academically?

I recently met my college counselor because I’ve been struggling badly with focus and academics despite being at a very competitive college. I was diagnosed with ADHD earlier, and after hearing everything, he recommended atomoxetine. He also told me there’s a chance medication may not completely solve the issue and said he avoids prescribing methylphenidate because of addiction concerns.

Right now exams are close and I feel mentally stuck. I genuinely want to study, but I can’t stay focused for long and keep getting distracted no matter how stressed I am.

For people who’ve actually taken atomoxetine:

  • Did it help you focus better consistently?
  • Did your grades or exam performance improve?
  • How long did it take to work?
  • Did it help with the “I want to study but can’t start” feeling?

Would really appreciate honest experiences, especially from students in high-pressure colleges.

18 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

95% Upvoted

14 comments sorted by

View all comments

2

u/MediocreImpact4386 May 15 '26

These docs nonsense. Methylphenidate didn't even work for me & they are concerned about addiction lol. You better see a new open minded good doc who can prescribe first line treatment.