*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Common alternatives to Adderall include stimulants, such as Vyvanse and Ritalin, and non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera and Intuniv. Some may use lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments instead of Adderall to manage symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help you consider all your options and safely change medications, if necessary.1
If you’re considering an Adderall alternative, you will be limited in your options for obtaining an assessment and prescription online. Circle Medical is an online psychiatry platform that can and will prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances. Circle Medical’s providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about Adderall’s side effects.
Boxed Warning: Amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts (Adderall) - Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Adderall has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Amphetamines, an active ingredient in Adderall, have a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication, serious heart conditions, and even sudden death.
Adderall is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Key Takeaways
Adderall alternatives may be necessary for some to consider. Adderall is prescribed to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions at times, but may not be right for everyone.
Several ADHD medications can be used as Adderall alternatives, including stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Some may find natural and over-the-counter treatments helpful.
If you are considering an alternative to Adderall, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms can provide assessments and prescriptions to non-stimulant medication. Circle Medical can and will provide evaluations and prescribe controlled substances such as stimulant medications.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same day appointments.
Reasons to Consider Adderall Alternatives
Some looking for ADHD treatments need to consider alternatives to Adderall. While Adderall is a safe and effective medication for many, it may not be a good fit for everyone. Each person responds uniquely to stimulants, and switching to a different medication can sometimes lead to better symptom relief.
Some individuals may experience uncomfortable side effects with Adderall, such as stomach ache, decreased appetite, or nervousness. Some may be taking medications that interact with Adderall, leading to potential toxicity or reduced effectiveness. Those who have allergic reactions to ingredients in Adderall will need to avoid it, considering other medications or non-medication treatments instead.
Insurance coverage, costs, and personal preference are additional key factors to consider. Some patients may find the cost of Adderall a burden. If you are considering Adderall alternatives, communicate with your prescriber and pharmacist to identify the treatments that may be a good fit for you.
What Medications Are Alternatives to Adderall?
Adderall is a commonly prescribed medication for treating symptoms of ADHD, but Adderall alternatives may be necessary for some needing treatment. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications are available to help manage ADHD symptoms. Every Adderall alternative medication carries risk and the potential for side effects.
Some of the most common Adderall alternatives include:
- Stimulants: Concerta, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Focalin, Provigil
- Non-stimulants: Strattera, Intuniv, Qelbree, Clonidine
- TCAs: Imipramine, desipramine
- Atypical antidepressant: Wellbutrin
- SNRI antidepressant: Effexor XR
Other Stimulant Medications
Stimulant medications increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters involved in attention regulation. Stimulants can be fast-acting (immediate-release) or long-acting (extended-release). These categories describe how quickly a medication takes effect and how long these effects last. Due to their potential for abuse and addiction, stimulants are controlled substances and are only available with a prescription from a healthcare professional.
While all stimulants share many similarities, there are differences with how they work and associated side effects that can make them good alternatives to Adderall. Common side effects for stimulants include increased heart rate, dry mouth, loss of appetite, headache, and trouble sleeping. And because each person has a unique response to medication, some may find that one stimulant works better than others they try.
Here are some stimulants prescribed as Adderall alternatives:
- Concerta (methylphenidate) – Concerta is a long-acting stimulant, FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children and adults. It may also be used off-label for apathy associated with Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) – Vyvanse is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and binge-eating disorder (BED). Its extended-release long-acting formula is taken once daily, typically in the morning. This may be a good option for those who want to avoid taking medications multiple times a day or need symptom relief for extended periods.
- Ritalin (methylphenidate) – Ritalin is a versatile medication that comes in both long-acting and short-acting formulas. It is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, and may be used off-label to treat several conditions such as depression and chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) – Dexedrine is a short-acting stimulant medication FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, and may be used off-label to treat obesity caused by hypothalamus dysfunction.
- Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) – Focalin is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and is also used off-label for treatment-resistant depression and narcolepsy. Focalin’s active ingredient, dexmethylphenidate, is more potent than some stimulants used to treat ADHD.
- Provigil (modafinil) – While not a true stimulant medication, Provigil has stimulant-like effects that promote alertness and improved attention. It is FDA-approved to treat sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, but may also be used off-label to treat ADHD.
Non-stimulant Medications
Non-stimulant medications are an alternative for individuals with ADHD who may not benefit from or have difficulty tolerating stimulant medications. These medications work differently than stimulants and typically have a more gradual onset of action.
Non-stimulant medications may be particularly beneficial for those with a history of substance abuse, anxiety disorders, or cardiac issues, as they tend to have a lower risk of abuse and fewer cardiovascular side effects than stimulant medications.
Here are some non-stimulants prescribed as Adderall alternatives:
- Strattera (atomoxetine) – Strattera is an FDA-approved serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) for treating ADHD. It works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain to help improve social functioning, motivation, and memory. Most individuals tolerate this medication relatively well, often experiencing mild adverse effects.
- Intuniv (guanfacine) – Intuniv is an FDA-approved high blood pressure medication. However, this medication can be used off-label as a non-stimulant ADHD medication for adults. Intuniv can improve focus and concentration and reduce impulsivity. Intuniv is a once-daily tablet taken at bedtime.
- Qelbree (viloxazine) – Qelbree (viloxazine) is an SNRI that works by increasing norepinephrine. Clinical trials have shown the drug can reduce inattention and hyperactivity, helping adults with ADHD manage their symptoms. Side effects of Qelbree are generally mild. However, pediatricians and parents should closely monitor children and teens due to the increased risk of suicidal ideation.
- Clonidine – Clonidine is FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure, however it is a common off-label treatment for ADHD. Clonidine works by increasing norepinephrine, helping improve focus and concentration in those with ADHD. Although most of the research focuses on clonidine use in children, this medication can also benefit adults.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same day appointments.
Antidepressant Medications
If typical ADHD treatments aren’t well tolerated or effective, prescribers may consider antidepressants. Several types have been shown to be effective for treating ADHD symptoms.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Although stimulants are often the most popular treatment for ADHD, tricyclic antidepressants have gained significant attention in recent years. One meta-analysis examining 33 studies found that 91% of children and adults reported symptom improvement after taking this medication. Imipramine and desipramine have been the most widely studied.2
Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
Wellbutrin primarily affects norepinephrine and dopamine levels. Also, the risk of sexual side effects with Wellbutrin is lower than for other antidepressants. Common side effects include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, constipation, and nausea.
Effexor XR
Because of its extended-release formula, some Effexor side effects may not be as likely to occur when starting the medication than with other antidepressants. Common side effects of Effexor include nausea, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, and sleepiness.
How to Get a Prescription for Adderall Alternative Medications
To get prescribed Adderall online or in person, you will first need an evaluation to determine whether it is a good fit for treating your symptoms of ADHD. The process of getting diagnosed and potentially prescribed Adderall online or in person may vary for people of different ages.
The first step is to book an appointment with an online provider that can and will prescribe controlled substances, such as Circle Medical. These are the primary online providers that prescribe stimulants like Adderall. A few online ADHD providers offer services for children under the age of 18.
Due to special regulations for controlled substances, it can be difficult to find a provider to prescribe controlled substances like Adderall online. We have thoroughly reviewed these platforms, and in using the services ourselves, we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation.
A good place to start for an in-person ADHD evaluation is with your primary care provider. This may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If they determine it is needed, they can refer you or your child to an ADHD specialist, such as a psychiatrist. They can further evaluate whether to include Adderall as a part of the treatment plan for you or your child.
See If You Have ADHD - Same Day Appointments
Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same day appointments.
Non-medication Alternatives for Adderall
Some with ADHD may consider non-medication alternatives to Adderall. Over-the-counter treatments, lifestyle changes, and psychotherapy are non-medication alternatives for treating ADHD symptoms. These options vary in effectiveness and research support.
Discuss these alternatives with your primary provider to understand which may be most helpful to you. Before taking an over-the-counter treatment or supplement, consult with your primary provider as they can interact with other substances and medications.
Over-the-counter Adderall Alternatives
Currently, there are no FDA-approved over-the-counter medications to treat ADHD. Many over-the-counter and natural products claim to help with the treatment of adult ADHD. Quality studies are limited and have yet to show whether such supplements improve ADHD symptoms. However, some individuals may find them beneficial for their symptoms.
- L-tyrosine: L-tyrosine is a molecule that makes up dopamine. Research has shown some promise using L-tyrosine for ADHD symptoms in some people.3
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Attention and other ADHD symptoms have improved with omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.4
- Vitamin D and magnesium: In children, 50,000 IU per week of Vitamin D and 6 mg per kilogram per day of magnesium were shown to help improve the emotional and social symptoms of ADHD.5
- Phosphatidylserine supplements: Phosphatidylserine has been shown to improve short-term auditory memory, attention, and impulsivity for some people.6
- Nootropics: Nootropics are supplements that enhance thought function. For some, they can help with attention, muscle speed, attention, and impulsivity.7
Over-the-counter treatments can interact with other medications you may be taking. Check with reputable sources and your healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
Lifestyle Changes
Making positive lifestyle changes can improve your mental wellbeing. Healthy activities and routines can enhance the effects of therapy and/or medication. And for some with mild symptoms, lifestyle changes alone may be enough to improve quality of life.
Important lifestyle changes for managing mental health conditions include:
- Getting enough sleep: The impact of sleep on mental health can benefit your mood and may help with ADHD symptoms.
- Healthy eating: Eating well is also great for your mental health. It can make you feel satisfied, accomplished, give you energy, and may be beneficial for ADHD symptoms.
- Exercising: The mental health benefits of exercise can also be really impactful. Regular activity may be helpful with ADHD symptoms by enhancing your mood and giving you energy.
- Avoiding other stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine: Stimulants can increase the amount of time it takes for your body to adjust without Adderall since it is also a stimulant.
- Avoiding depressants such as alcohol: Depressants also affect your brain’s chemistry and can make it harder for you to adjust.
- Following structured routines: Establishing consistent daily routines can provide a sense of organization and predictability, helping you manage your time more effectively.
- Time management strategies: Learning and implementing time management techniques can help individuals with ADHD organize tasks and activities, leading to enhanced productivity.
- Limiting distractions: Minimizing environmental distractions, especially during tasks that require concentration, can aid in maintaining focus and productivity.
- Practicing mindfulness and meditation: Practicing mindfulness techniques and meditation can enhance self-awareness, impulse control, and attention span. These practices contribute to an improved overall sense of well-being.
- Speaking with a therapist: A therapist can help your mental health and help you think of ways to enhance your mood and thoughts while experiencing symptoms. They can also provide encouragement and keep you accountable.
- Attending online support groups: Support groups are another great way to receive encouragement and you don’t have to attend a group specific for ADHD.
How to Get Therapy Online & In Person
Therapy is a research-backed treatment approach for ADHD and many other mental health conditions. While therapy and medication are often used together, it can be an alternative to Adderall or other psychiatric medications.
Start by finding a therapist with the experience and training to treat your condition. For in-person treatment, your primary care provider or insurance company can provide a referral, or you may get one from family or friends. To find an online therapist, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
When considering a new Adderall alternative medication, consult your doctor and pharmacist to better understand what treatment may be the best fit for you. Prepare for your appointment by creating a list of questions addressing issues such as side effects, effectiveness, other medications you take, and more.
Questions to ask your provider about Adderall alternatives include:
- Is it safe to take ADHD medication with my other medications?
- Am I at risk for side effects from ADHD medications or supplements if I am already taking other medications, such as antidepressants or anxiety medications?
- What ADHD medications should I consider for fewer side effects?
- Will my ADHD symptoms get better without medication?
- What are the potential benefits and risks of transitioning to an alternative ADHD medication?
- How often will I need to monitor and adjust my medication dosage, if necessary?
- Are there any alternative medications that are better suited to my age group or specific circumstances?
- What support resources are available to help manage the transition to a new medication?
- Could I benefit from therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy alongside medication?
- What are the long-term effects of the alternative ADHD medication compared to Adderall?
- How does Adderall compare to phentermine as an alternative?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your prescriber will share important information about your Adderall prescription. They will explain how to take and store your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and what to do about side effects. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Adderall.
- Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects. When taking antidepressants, this approach can prevent withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, brain zaps, and flu-like symptoms.8
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can help determine the optimal timing based on your sleep patterns and initial medication response.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. Antidepressants have a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults.
- Some antidepressants can cause drowsiness and may affect your decision making. Talk to your doctor about how taking one of these medications may affect your ability to drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities safely. Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking your medication.
- Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications. This is because they are processed by the same gut enzymes, cytochrome P450 (CYPs). These interactions can lead to unwanted side effects or reduce the effectiveness of your prescription medication.9
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Generic Version of Adderall Work the Same as the Brand Name?
Amphetamine mixed salts is a generic version of brand name Adderall with the same uses and risks as Adderall.
Why Might I Need to Consider an Adderall Alternative?
Adderall alternatives may be needed for people who have taken Adderall but did not respond well enough, had an allergic reaction, or had intolerable side effects. Adderall can also interact with other substances and medications.
Do I Need to Consider an Adderall Alternative if I’m Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
It’s possible. The impact of stimulant and non-stimulant medications are unclear on pregnancy and breastfeeding. Patients and prescribers need to weigh the risks and benefits of these medications for each situation.
What If I Switch to an Adderall Alternative & It Still Doesn’t Work for Me?
Some people try more than one medication before they find one that works for them. Consult your prescriber about which medications may work for you and how to safely make a change, if needed.
How Can I Minimize Adderall Withdrawal Effects When Stopping or Switching Medications?
You can prevent experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping Adderall by working with your doctor to create a plan to taper off of your medication slowly. Other habits that may help to limit withdrawal symptoms include eating healthy, getting exercise, doing activities that make you happy, avoiding other stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, avoiding depressants such as alcohol, and getting enough sleep.
How Long Should I Take Adderall Before I Consider an Alternative?
It may depend on the reason for considering an Adderall alternative. Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms of a medication interaction, serious side effect, or an allergic reaction. When evaluating side effects and symptom improvement, it may take a few weeks to observe changes and make a determination.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
-
Adderall – dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate tablet. (May 29, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
-
Budur, K., Mathews, M., Adetunji, B., Mathews, M., & Mahmud, J. (2005). Non-stimulant treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3000197/
-
Colzato, Lorenza & Steenbergen, Laura & Sellaro, Roberta & Stock, Ann-Kathrin & Arning, Larissa & Beste, Christian. (2016). Effects of L-Tyrosine on working memory and inhibitory control are determined by DRD2 genotypes: A randomized controlled trial. Cortex. 82. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27403851/
-
Bos, D. J., Oranje, B., Veerhoek, E. S., Van Diepen, R. M., Weusten, J. M., Demmelmair, H., Koletzko, B., de Sain-van der Velden, M. G., Eilander, A., Hoeksma, M., & Durston, S. (2015). Reduced Symptoms of Inattention after Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Boys with and without Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Neuropsychopharmacology, 40(10), 2298–2306. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2015.73
-
Hemamy, M., Pahlavani, N., Amanollahi, A., Islam, S. M. S., McVicar, J., Askari, G., & Malekahmadi, M. (2021). The effect of vitamin D and magnesium supplementation on the mental health status of attention-deficit hyperactive children: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Pediatrics, 21(1), 178. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-021-02631-1
-
Hirayama, S., Terasawa, K., Rabeler, R., Hirayama, T., Inoue, T., Tatsumi, Y., Purpura, M., & Jäger, R. (2014). The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics : The Official Journal of the British Dietetic Association, 27 Suppl 2, 284–291. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12090
-
McGlade, E., Agoston, A. M., DiMuzio, J., Kizaki, M., Nakazaki, E., Kamiya, T., & Yurgelun-Todd, D. (2019). The Effect of Citicoline Supplementation on Motor Speed and Attention in Adolescent Males. Journal of Attention Disorders, 23(2), 121–134. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054715593633
-
Marken, P. A., & Munro, J. S. (2000). Selecting a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor: Clinically Important Distinguishing Features. Primary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC181142/
-
Warner, C et al. (2006). Antidepressant Continuation Syndrome. American Academy of Family Physicians. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2006/0801/p449.html
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Retitled and revised the following “When to Seek Professional Help” to “How to Get Therapy Online & In Person”. Revised and retitled “Lifestyle Changes That Help Manage ADHD” to “Lifestyle Changes”. Revised “Non-medication Alternatives for Adderall” and “Over-the-counter Adderall Alternatives”. “Revised and expanded “The Best Alternatives to Adderall” (retitled “What Medications Are Alternatives to Adderall?”), “Stimulant ADHD Medications”, “Non-stimulant Medications”, and “Are There Affordable Alternatives to Adderall?”. Added new sections; “Key Takeaways”, “How to Get a Prescription for Adderall Alternatives”. Retitled sections “Questions to Ask Your Health Team” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Retitled and expanded “In My Experience” section to “Prescriber’s Tips”. Removed “What Is Adderall?”, “What Are the Common Side Effects of Adderall Alternatives?”, “For Further Reading”. Added FAQs.
Author: Max Ruvinov, PharmD, MBA
Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
Your Voice Matters
Can't find what you're looking for?
Request an article! Tell ChoosingTherapy.com’s editorial team what questions you have about mental health, emotional wellness, relationships, and parenting. Our licensed therapists are just waiting to cover new topics you care about!
Leave your feedback for our editors.
Share your feedback on this article with our editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.
Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
Online Psychiatry
Circle Medical – ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment. Affordable and accessible ADHD evaluations and treatment, including possible controlled substances medication if clinically appropriate. Diagnosis and prescription over video. Insurance accepted. Same & next day appointments available. Visit Circle Medical
Talkiatry – Get help from a real doctor who takes your insurance. Talkiatry offers medication management and online visits with expert psychiatrists. Take the online assessment and have your first appointment in days. Free Assessment
ADHD Medication Management + Therapy
Brightside Health – Different people experience ADHD in different ways. That’s why Brightside Health develops personalized plans that are unique to you and offers 1-on-1 support from start to finish. Brightside Health accepts United Healthcare, Anthem, Cigna, and Aetna. No controlled substances. Appointments in as little as 24 hours. Start your free assessment.
ADHD Management Tools
Inflow App – Inflow is the #1 science-based app to help you manage your ADHD. Their support system helps you understand your neurodiverse brain, and build lifelong skills. Free Trial
Do you think you have ADHD?
Answer an evidence-based questionnaire for Circles Medical to learn more. Takes 45 seconds.
Best Online Psychiatry Services
Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
