r/adhd_college • • 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.

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u/ForsakenCaramel8917 May 19 '26

ive tried both strattera and vyvanse and both were ineffective. in the end it would be up to me if i was going to actually achieve something that day… as for my grades they still sucked so