15 Alternatives to Adderall

Adderall is a well-known and popular stimulant prescription drug used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulant medications can be effective in treating ADHD by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Adderall can increase attention, cognitive function, and the ability to stay organized and complete tasks. However, despite its known efficacy, the side effects of the drug, the potential for misuse, and the risk of dependency have left some people searching for Adderall alternatives. 

Fortunately, Adderall isn’t the only ADHD medication or ADHD treatment option you have — you can also try other prescription ADHD medications and natural, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. We’re exploring the various Adderall replacement options you have here. 

Please be aware: Holistic methods may not work the same way or be as effective as some more conventional methods of treatment. You should discuss any alternative treatments you decide to try with your doctor or healthcare team. Sometimes natural methods can be most effective when coupled with more traditional forms of psychological treatment, like when used in combination with medication and/or talk therapy.

Prescription Medication Alternatives to Adderall

You might want an alternative to Adderall for many reasons. You may have experienced adverse side effects from the drug or you might not be getting the results you hoped for when it comes to managing ADHD. 

Whatever the reason, there are other stimulant medications and non stimulants you can try. Remember, drugs won’t always work the same way for everyone, so trying something else, even if it’s in the same class of drugs, might be worth it for your ADHD treatment. 

1. Strattera (atomoxetine)

Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication. Unlike stimulant medications like Adderall, Ritalin, and Vyvanse, Strattera does not work by directly stimulating the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Instead, it works primarily by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in attention and impulse control.

One of the key advantages of a Strattera prescription is that, as a non-stimulant, it does not have the same potential for abuse or dependency as stimulant medications. This makes it a suitable option for individuals who may be at risk for substance abuse or who prefer to avoid stimulants due to side effects or personal preference.

The biggest difference: The main difference between Strattera and stimulant medications like Adderall is its mechanism of action and its classification as a non-stimulant. This difference results in a distinct side effect profile and the absence of stimulant-related side effects such as insomnia and increased heart rate. Additionally, Strattera is often reported to take longer to show improvements in ADHD symptoms compared to stimulant medications, with some patients needing several weeks to notice significant benefits.

2. Intuniv ER (guanfacine)

Intuniv is another non-stimulant medication used in the treatment of ADHD. It is an extended-release form of a Guanfacine prescription, a medication originally developed to treat high blood pressure. Guanfacine works by affecting receptors in the brain involved in impulse control and attention regulation.

The drug’s mechanism involves stimulating alpha-2A adrenergic receptors in the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with attention and impulse control. This stimulation helps to improve working memory and executive functioning skills, which are often areas of difficulty for individuals with ADHD.

The biggest difference: Unlike stimulants that increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine throughout the brain, Guanfacine’s effects are more targeted, potentially leading to fewer side effects such as sleep disturbances and appetite suppression. 

3. Ritalin (methylphenidate)

Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a different stimulant that impacts the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Altering these levels can reduce hyperactivity and improve impulse control, brain function, and attention. 

Research suggests that Adderall might be more potent than Ritalin — in some studies, people were able to get better results from lower doses of Adderall. 

The biggest difference: Though similar to Adderall in how it functions, a major difference with Ritalin is that, because it’s not an amphetamine-based drug (like Adderall), it might have fewer side effects and can be more tolerant for some people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

4. Provigil (modafinil)

Provigil (modafinil) was initially developed to treat narcolepsy, but it’s sometimes used off-label to treat ADHD. The drug can help with cognitive enhancement and improve focus without some of the traditional side effects other stimulants often cause. Provigil is considered a milder stimulant, which reduces the chance of it triggering anxiety, irritability, or agitation. 

The biggest difference: A significant difference between these drugs is that Provigil has a unique structure that results in less severe side effects in some people. It’s also a Schedule IV controlled substance, whereas Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, making Adderall a higher risk for dependency and abuse. 

5. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is also a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, just like Adderall. Both raise the levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. 

These neurotransmitters send messages between nerve cells, and it’s believed that increasing levels can effectively enhance impulse control and improve wakefulness in people with ADHD. While they may work the same way to achieve similar effects, the two drugs actually differ in multiple ways. 

The biggest difference: One difference between Focalin and Adderall is the active ingredients in each drug. In Focalin, the main ingredient is dexmethylphenidate, which is similar to the main ingredient in Ritalin; in Adderall, it’s amphetamine/dextroamphetamine. Another difference is efficacy for age groups. One study found that while Focalin might offer better results for children, Adderall may be more effective for adults. 

6. Vyvanse (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)

Vyvanse (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) is a similar stimulant to Adderall in how both drugs work, their efficacy in treating ADHD, and potential side effects. They also seem to have a relatively comparable risk of abuse or dependency — although some researchers believe that Adderall has a higher potential for abuse.

These drugs both work by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine to increase levels in the brain. The result can be cognitive enhancement, improved attention, and reduced agitation. 

The biggest difference: A major difference between Vyvanse and Adderall is that the ingredient lisdexamfetamine in Vyvanse must be converted to dexamphetamine once it’s in the body, and this extra step might mean the drug takes longer to work.

Natural Alternatives to Adderall

Today, it’s common for people to look for natural Adderall alternatives. The motivation for seeking a natural alternative might be wanting something with fewer side effects, fear of becoming dependent on a drug, or just feeling more comfortable with a holistic approach to their treatment plan. Remember that natural alternatives may not work as well as conventional treatments overall and to consult with your doctor before changing your treatment plan.

“Many may choose a natural alternative to Adderall due to the risk of becoming dependent on the medication. Adderall is a controlled substance that has the potential to be abused.”

– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD

Whatever the reason, there are multiple options if you’re looking for natural alternatives to Adderall. 

7. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties and is thought to improve memory and focus. While more research is needed, some studies suggest it might be an effective addition to a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD. 

It’s not fully understood how Ginkgo works to reduce symptoms of ADHD. It’s been suggested that increasing vascular dilation can enhance cerebral circulation, contributing to neuroplasticity, which plays a significant role in learning. Some research found that Gingko may be a beneficial natural alternative option for children with ADHD, although we need to conduct more studies to be sure. 

NOTE: Ginkgo biloba has known interactions with some medications. Talk to your doctor about using Ginkgo as an Adderall replacement before making any changes to your treatment plan.

8. L-theanine & caffeine

L-theanine is an amino acid that’s found in green tea leaves and is known for producing a calming effect. When used with caffeine, the combination might help improve cognitive performance and attention in children with ADHD. The results of one small study found that combining L-theanine and caffeine resulted in higher scores on cognitive tests.

9. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids can offer significant neurological benefits, including improved attention span and cognitive function, which ADHD impacts. A review of 16 randomized controlled trials with more than 1,500 participants with ADHD found that Omega-3 fatty acids improved symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and working/short-term memory in 13 of the studies. 

10. Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa monnieri (B monnieri) is a plant extract frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine — which is based on the principle that disease and stress or imbalance are related. In some studies, B monnieri significantly reduced the severity of ADHD symptoms in children.

11. Therapy

Therapy can be a crucial part of addressing both the primary and underlying aspects of ADHD symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD can offer tools and strategies while encouraging self-management skills to improve symptoms over time. Combining therapy with other natural remedies for ADHD might offer the game-changing results you’ve been seeking. 

“Therapy can promote positive behaviors to help patients manage their ADHD symptoms more effectively. In some cases of ADHD, therapy alone can be adequate for treatment (without medication).”

– Talkspace psychiatrist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Alternatives to Adderall

Some people opt for over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives to treat ADHD. The benefits of using OTCs include reduced risk of potential dependency and, usually, easy access.  

12. Nootropic supplements

There are stimulant and non-stimulant nootropics available by prescription, but there are also supplements available OTC that may be beneficial in managing ADHD symptoms. 

It’s believed that nootropic supplements can potentially boost mental functions, including cognitive functioning, memory, motivation, learning, alertness, and focus in some people.

Some popular OTC nootropic supplements that might improve symptoms of ADHD include:

•  Resveratrol: A naturally occurring antioxidant found in the skins of red and purple fruits — think blueberries and grapes. In some studies, characteristic symptoms of ADHD improved with the use of resveratrol. 
• Creatine: More research is needed, but some studies have found that the amino acid creatine might improve brain health and function, including cognitive processing.   

13. Caffeine pills

The use of caffeine to treat ADHD symptoms has mixed reviews, but in some research, consuming tea had a positive effect in adults with ADHD. 

14. Herbal stimulants

People looking for holistic treatment options may want to try herbal stimulants to address their ADHD. While further research is warranted, some notable herbal supplements have shown promise for reducing symptoms of ADHD in research and studies. 

Some popular herbal stimulants that might improve symptoms of ADHD include:

• Guarana: According to research, guarana has bioactive ingredients and some caffeine content that might help with cognitive performance. 
• Ginseng: Ginseng has been used in China for centuries to enhance energy and promote brain function. “Red ginseng” might be beneficial in calming hyperactivity, too. One study found that within 8 weeks of taking ginseng, children saw improvements in anxiety and social functioning. Another study suggests combining Korean red ginseng and Omega-3 fatty acids might improve attention and memory in children with ADHD.   

15. Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Many vitamin and mineral supplements are thought to offer relief from ADHD symptoms. 

• Zinc: While not as well-researched as some other supplements (like Omega-3 fatty acids), some research has suggested that there is a higher likelihood for people who have ADHD to be prone to zinc deficiencies. 
• Magnesium: A meta-analysis of multiple studies discovered that there may be a link between low magnesium levels and higher rates of ADHD. This mineral isn’t as useful in enhancing attention, but it might help reduce hyperactivity.  

Find Effective Alternative Treatments with Talkspace

Most people find the best way to treat ADHD is through a combined approach that includes therapy. Talkspace has simplified the process, with a secure online platform that lets you get expert mental health guidance from online psychiatrists and therapists from the comfort of your home. 

If you’re looking for an alternative to Adderall to improve symptoms of ADHD, learn how to get ADHD medication with Talkspace today. Talkspace offers a low-stress way to find complete mental health support for ADHD and other mental health conditions.