Adderall Alternatives: Types, Benefits, and Side Effects

Managing ADHD can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding the right medication. Stimulant medications like Adderall are often the standard treatment due to their reliable efficacy, but they have drawbacks, including potential for abuse, dependency, sleep disruption, and other side effects. Fortunately, there are many alternative treatment options available that can help ensure therapy is balanced with safety and well-being. Let's examine some of these alternatives more closely.

What are Adderall alternatives?

Alternatives to Adderall can take many forms, ranging from other stimulants and prescription medications with different mechanisms of action to over-the-counter supplements. Each option has its own distinct set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s helpful to spend some time exploring them individually in more detail.

Types of Adderall alternatives

Adderall alternatives can be broken down into three fairly broad categories:

• Other stimulant prescription medications
• Non-stimulant prescription medications
• Non-prescription supplements and strategies

It’s important to remember that treatment goals and broader health needs can vary significantly among individuals. Researching treatment options can help you have more productive conversations with your healthcare providers. Ultimately, before starting a new treatment or adding something to existing therapy, it’s critical to talk it over with your doctor to gain a full, personalized perspective about the risks and benefits of any potential changes.

Other stimulant medications

Many individuals who find themselves uncomfortable with Adderall ultimately transition to alternative stimulants. In some cases, a new option can provide improved symptom management or fewer side effects. This can be due to individual variability in response to certain medications or more fine-tuned timing of dosage.

Well-balanced stimulant therapy relies on sustained activity when needed and an ability to effectively rest when the day’s activities are complete. In addition to any broader concerns, it’s critical to continue to speak openly with your providers over time to ensure therapy isn’t wearing off too quickly or lasting too long and impacting sleep.

Methylphenidate

Like Adderall, methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that increases levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. Although it works similarly, there have been some important differences established over time in clinical trials. While it’s still important to monitor for potential concerns with things like growth (i.e., height and weight) and blood pressure, methylphenidate has been considered a better-tolerated, preferred option for children and adolescents.

Potential side effects of methylphenidate include:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Decreased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Nausea

If you experience the following side effects, seek medical advice:

• Anxiety
• Palpitations (feeling your heartbeat, i.e., ‘pounding’)
• Tachycardia (elevated heart rate)

Decreased appetite is often considered a primary cause of poor or ‘stunted’ growth in children and must be monitored closely over time.

As Ritalin, methylphenidate is available in both regular and extended-release formulations. Other more unique options are also available, like chewable, liquid, and patch forms, which may be easier to use for some patients. These different forms can vary significantly in price depending on factors like generic availability, choice of pharmacy, and insurance coverage.

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

Many chemical compounds actually exist as mixtures of structures that are mirror images of each other and may interact differently — a good analogy is your right and left hands, for instance. Dexmethylphenidate contains only the more active orientation of methylphenidate. While it could be considered a more pure version, it ultimately has similar effects to other forms of methylphenidate. Because of this, it can also be considered a potentially improved option for younger patients compared with Adderall.

The most commonly reported side effects of dexmethylphenidate include:

• Anxiety
• Dry mouth
• Upset stomach
• Decreased appetite

Like methylphenidate, Adderall, and other stimulant options, dexmethylphenidate has been associated with impaired growth in children and must also be monitored carefully. It’s also critical to monitor for changes in heart rate and blood pressure, particularly in individuals who may be at risk of cardiovascular disease.

A long-acting formulation (Focalin XR) is also available. It can provide more sustained, consistent levels throughout the day, avoiding some of the peaks and valleys seen with regular-release options. However, it’s important to note that extended-release medications are often significantly more expensive than their regular-release counterparts.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

Vyvanse is a prodrug, meaning it has to be metabolized to dextroamphetamine before it becomes active. Dextroamphetamine is among the components provided by Adderall but may provide different responses among individuals. Vyvanse is a relatively long-acting option among stimulants, which may help some patients with improved coverage throughout the day.

Potential side effects include:

• Decreased appetite
• Anorexia
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate
• Difficulty sleeping
• Irritability

Similar to other stimulants, primary concerns are related to anxiety, cardiovascular health, and growth patterns in children.

While methylphenidate is often recommended for children and adolescents due to its relative safety, Vyvanse (like Adderall) has been found to be both more effective and somewhat better tolerated among adult patients. The medication remains brand-only at this time, however, and can be significantly more expensive than alternatives.

Non-stimulant prescription medications

Stimulant medications are often considered to be the most effective for managing ADHD symptoms, but concerns are also common. Aside from potential side effects like difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite leading to poor growth in children, the potential for dependency and abuse are also significant concerns with stimulant medications.

There are some non-habit forming, non-stimulant prescription medication options also available, each approaching ADHD management from a different angle. Let’s explore several of these alternatives in more detail.

Strattera (atomoxetine)

While stimulants act primarily on the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, atomoxetine focuses more specifically on increasing norepinephrine levels. It’s important to note that, like many medications for mental health, atomoxetine takes time (sometimes up to four to six weeks) to become effective and must be used consistently to remain effective. Although it isn’t habit-forming, mild but uncomfortable withdrawal effects can occur if the medication is stopped suddenly.

The most commonly reported side effects of atomoxetine are:

• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Decreased appetite
• Sexual dysfunction

While Strattera isn’t considered a stimulant, it can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, so it’s critical to thoroughly discuss your medical history with your healthcare providers. Like stimulants, it’s also important to carefully monitor growth in pediatric patients due to decreases in appetite.

Ultimately, atomoxetine is considered consistently more effective than a placebo but not as effective as stimulants for managing ADHD in a majority of patients. Overall, pediatric patients seem to tolerate the medication more often than adults.

Atomoxetine is available as a generic, which can help with cost. Pricing is often still heavily dependent on pharmacy choice and insurance coverage, however.

Intuniv (guanfacine)

Guanfacine takes a unique approach to ADHD symptom management by targeting alpha-adrenergic receptors. Unlike many other alternatives, this can result in patients feeling more tired or experiencing drops in heart rate and blood pressure.

Common side effects of guanfacine include:

• Low blood pressure
• Daytime drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Drops in blood pressure can contribute to a higher risk of fainting or falling, so it’s especially important to be mindful of this early in therapy. Special care also needs to be taken when stopping therapy due to a risk of rebound hypertension — when the body is no longer exposed to guanfacine, blood pressure can rise rapidly. Doses should be tapered carefully with the help of a healthcare provider.

Because guanfacine has been used primarily in children and adolescents when managing ADHD, there’s not much data for adults. In children, guanfacine has been more effective than placebo but less effective than stimulants for most patients.

Intuniv is an extended-release version of guanfacine, and a generic is available. Depending on insurance coverage, pricing varies widely and may ultimately be similar to other alternatives.

Wellbutrin (bupropion)

Most prescription medications that manage ADHD symptoms focus on norepinephrine and dopamine. While stimulants work on both, and atomoxetine works on norepinephrine, bupropion focuses more on dopamine.

Potential side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Decreased appetite
• Excessive sweating
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

It’s important to note that bupropion can lower the seizure threshold and should be used with caution with other medications that do the same or in patients with a history of seizures. There are also reports of more frequent manic episodes, paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations in patients with a history of bipolar disorder or psychiatric disorders.

Data has been more reliable for adult patients using bupropion for ADHD. In general, bupropion was well-tolerated and more effective than placebo but may not be as effective as stimulants like Adderall for ADHD symptoms.

Generic regular-release and extended-release bupropion versions are available and may be among the least expensive prescription options for individuals without insurance.

Non-prescription supplements and strategies

Many individuals seek alternatives to prescription medications with the hope of finding more affordable options with fewer side effects. While many supplements have not been associated with as many side effects, it’s important to remember that they have not been studied as extensively in general. More studies would be helpful to determine how much they may be able to help with ADHD symptoms and how safe they are likely to be for larger groups of people.

It’s crucial to discuss all of your medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements, with each of your healthcare providers to ensure they can be combined safely. In some instances, combining supplements with prescription therapy can increase the likelihood of side effects.

There are some natural products and non-drug therapies that have more evidence than others, so let’s review several that have shown some promise.

Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, with roots in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for centuries for various ailments. Among other effects, it has shown a potential for increasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which may have positive effects on ADHD management.

Modern research for ADHD has been limited to relatively small studies in children. Some direct comparisons with methylphenidate have been evaluated with mixed results — in one study, the Ginkgo biloba group had a stronger response, and in another, the response appeared weaker. In general, Ginkgo biloba seemed well-tolerated. Future studies can help identify an ideal dose for both symptom relief and safety.

Ginkgo biloba interferes with blood clot formation, so it should not be used with blood thinners. Individuals with a history of seizures should also be particularly cautious, as some formulations of the herbal supplement may lower the seizure threshold.

Ginseng

Similar to Ginkgo biloba, ginseng (Panax notoginseng) is a commonly used herbal product with many proposed beneficial effects. Antioxidant and neuromodulating effects have been proposed as helpful for managing stress and maintaining cognition, which may also extend to ADHD symptoms.

Studies related to ADHD management are sparse but show some early promise for reducing symptoms with ginseng. As is the case with many herbal supplements, additional studies with standardized dosing, placebo controls, and larger study groups would be very beneficial for establishing which patients are most likely to benefit and at what dosage.

Ginseng is considered safe and well-tolerated overall but does have some important safety considerations. Like Ginkgo biloba, ginseng interferes with blood clotting and may increase the likelihood of bleeding. Ginseng can also impact a number of medications, so it’s important to make sure it can be safely taken with other active therapies.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Whether you choose to use a prescription medication, herbal supplement, or no medication at all, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be beneficial. CBT is a structured approach to therapy with a trained therapist who can provide individualized feedback to help you identify patterns in your thoughts and behaviors and ultimately more effectively manage your thoughts and emotions.

This approach may be particularly helpful for those who also find themselves managing symptoms of anxiety or depression. Overall, adults with ADHD were found to have increased self-esteem and quality of life when CBT sessions were regularly attended.

CBT also offers an opportunity to learn more about strategies for implementing numerous techniques for improving stress management and focus, like breathing exercises, mindfulness, or neurofeedback. Everyone is different and may identify with certain techniques more than others, but there are ample opportunities for personal growth.

Reviewing the benefits of Adderall alternatives

Any benefit gained by switching from Adderall to an alternative or choosing another option first is dependent on your individual needs. Some alternatives may have the potential to:

• Avoid concerns with dependency or abuse
• Lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
• Reduce anxiety symptoms
• Improve appetite and growth rates in children
• Provide better coverage for symptoms throughout the day
• Lessen the impact on sleep patterns

In many cases, multiple important factors must be considered. It’s also possible that Adderall is, in fact, the best option.

Talk openly with your healthcare providers. Ensure they are aware of which goals matter most to you, any concerns you have, and an accurate picture of your health history. By working together, you’ll be able to choose the best path forward to help manage your unique needs.

How to choose the best Adderall alternative?

When searching for the best Adderall alternative for you, it’s a good idea to take a calculated approach and consider all factors in play. Here’s how you can narrow down your options and find the right fit for your needs:

• Understand your needs. Define the areas you want to address, such as focus, energy, or mood. Different supplements target different aspects of cognitive function. Understanding your specific needs will help you narrow down the options that are most suitable for you.
• Research the brand. Not all supplements are created equal, and the brand behind the product matters. Look for companies that are transparent. Check if they provide third-party testing results that confirm the purity and quality of their products and that they manufacture in facilities adhering to cGMP standards.
• Consider the safety profile. Every supplement has its own set of potential side effects, particularly if it contains stimulants. Research each ingredient’s safety profile, especially in relation to your personal health conditions and any medications you may be taking.
• Check ingredients in play. Examine the ingredient list carefully to understand what’s in the supplement. Look for ingredients with clinical backing that support cognitive function. Be cautious of proprietary blends, which can obscure the exact amounts of each ingredient. Transparency is paramount — choose products that disclose precise dosages so you can evaluate their potential effectiveness.

📝Healthnews editor's top picks

If you're considering switching to an Adderall alternative, our dedicated article could be a great place to start. We've rounded up what we believe are some of the best options on the market, each reviewed and approved by the Healthnews Research team.

Hunter Focus — overall best Adderall alternative

• Formulated with science-supported ingredients
• Made in cGMP-certified and FDA-registered facilities
• Offers big savings with bundles

Try Hunter Focus now

We consider Hunter Focus the best Adderall alternative on the market today. Its formula includes ginkgo biloba, ginseng, L-tyrosine, L-theanine, and 100 mg of caffeine anhydrous — a combination which may help support focus and attention. Though the serving size of 6 capsules daily might be a bit much for some, the quality ingredients and the science behind them make it a strong contender in the nootropic market, even if it comes at a higher price.

Vyvamind — best Adderall alternative for concentration

• Contains well-tolerated ingredients
• Manufactured in FDA-compliant facilities
• Is third-party tested

Try Vyvamind now

What we like best about Vyvamind, which led us to rank it as the best Adderall alternative for concentration, is its combination of science-backed ingredients, such as vitamins B6 and B12, citicoline, and L-theanine. The supplement is also third-party tested, and we believe its formula is among the very best for enhancing concentration. Vyvamind, however, also does come with a steeper price tag.

Onnit — best Adderall alternative for focus and working memory

• Clinically-tested
• Easy on the wallet
• Caffeine-free

Try Onnit now

We have named Onnit as the best Adderall alternative for focus and working memory. This caffeine-free supplement features ingredients such as L-tyrosine, L-theanine, oat straw extract, and phosphatidylserine (PS) — all known to support memory and focus. Although Onnit lacks third-party testing, we think the potential is there, and its status as one of the most affordable options on the market further adds to the appeal.

Performance Lab Mind — best Adderall alternative for focus

• Contains science-backed ingredients for the brain
• Allergen-free
• Caffeine-free

Try Performance Lab Mind now

When it comes to finding a solid alternative to Adderall solely for focus, Performance Lab Mind is definitely worth considering. It is packed with nootropics like citicoline, phosphatidylserine, maritime pine bark extract, and the amino acid L-tyrosine — it’s this combination that makes us stand behind this product. Plus, Performance Lab Mind is caffeine-free, allergen-free, and made in GMP-certified facilities, which is also a big bonus.

Nooceptin — best Adderall alternative with plant-derived ingredients

• Clinically-proven ingredients
• Made in FDA-registered manufacturing facilities
• Caffeine-free formula

Try Nooceptin now

If you’re on the hunt for an Adderall alternative formulated with natural ingredients, don’t skip past Nooceptin. See Nooceptin blends nutrients suggested to enhance brain function from six, yes six, plants — rhodiola rosea, lion’s mane, panax ginseng, ginkgo biloba, bacopa monnieri, and L-theanine from tea leaves. Although clinical studies on the full supplement formulation are limited, its manufacture in FDA-registered facilities and the inclusion of clinically proven ingredients are strong indicators of a promising supplement.

Diving into the latest research on Adderall alternatives

Several new therapies for ADHD may continue to gain additional traction over time. Each attempts to address some of the shortfalls or common concerns with more traditional treatment.

Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate combined with dexmethylphenidate) provides a mixture of active dexmethylphenidate with a prodrug that is converted to active dexmethylphenidate over the course of the day. The goal is to provide a more steady concentration for coverage throughout the day while minimizing initial peaks in drug levels. The medication is also considered to have a lower potential for abuse when compared with other stimulants.

A newer non-stimulant option similar to atomoxetine, Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release), has also been developed. Initial studies have shown some promise in both children and adults.

EndeavorRx offers a more novel approach designed specifically for children. It's a prescription-only handheld video game-like device that delivers a form of ADHD therapy with 25 minutes of use daily, five days per week. Initial studies have been positive, with some improvements in symptoms and minimal side effects.

Each of these treatment options, among others, will continue to be evaluated over time and may begin to be used more commonly in treatment.

Article history

Our experts strive to provide up to date information and update articles when new information becomes available

August 08, 2024

Co-written by Dominykas Krimisieras

August 08, 2024

Fact checked by Alifia Fernandes Jokubauskienė, MPharm

August 08, 2024

Written by Matt Sommers, PharmD