*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.
Vyvanse alternatives include stimulants, such as Adderall and Ritalin, and non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera and Intuniv. Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments can be used instead of taking Adderall. Your healthcare provider can help you consider all your options and safely change medications, if necessary.
If you’re considering a Vyvanse alternative, you will be limited in your options for obtaining an assessment and prescription online. Talkiatry is an online psychiatry platform that can prescribe stimulant medications, which are controlled substances. Their providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about Vyvanse’s side effects.
Boxed Warning: Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) – Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, the active ingredient in Vyvanse, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate has a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication.
Vyvanse 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.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
Key Takeaways
Vyvanse alternatives may be necessary for some to consider. Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse alternatives, including stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Some may find natural and over-the-counter treatments helpful.
If you are considering an alternative to Vyvanse, 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. Talkiatry can and will provide evaluations and prescribe controlled substances such as stimulant medications.
Reasons to Consider Vyvanse Alternatives
Some looking for ADHD treatments need to consider alternatives to Vyvanse. While Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse, such as dry mouth, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. Some may be taking medications that interact with Vyvanse, leading to potential toxicity or reduced effectiveness. Those who have allergic reactions to ingredients in Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse a burden. If you are considering Vyvanse alternatives, communicate with your prescriber and pharmacist to identify the treatments that may be a good fit for you.
What Medications Are Alternatives to Vyvanse?
Vyvanse is a commonly prescribed medication for treating symptoms of ADHD, but Vyvanse alternatives may be necessary for some needing treatment. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications are available to help manage ADHD symptoms. Every Vyvanse alternative medication carries risk and the potential for side effects.
Some of the most common Vyvanse alternatives include:
- Stimulants: Concerta, Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine, Focalin, Provigil
- Non-stimulants: Strattera, Qelbree, Intuniv, 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.
While all stimulants share many similarities, there are differences with how they work and associated side effects that can make them good alternatives to Vyvanse. 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 Vyvanse 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.
- Adderall (amphetamine mixed salts) – Adderall is FDA-approved to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, and may be used off-label for depression symptoms. Adderall uses a combination of amphetamine salts and comes in short and long-acting forms.
- 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 amphetamine-based stimulant, 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 Vyvanse 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.3 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.
ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
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 Vyvanse Alternative Medications
To get prescribed Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse 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. This is a primary online provider that prescribe stimulants like Vyvanse. 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 Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse as a part of the treatment plan for you or your child.
Online Psychiatry Covered by Insurance
Work with a psychiatrist online. Insurance accepted, and new patients welcome. Get personalized mental care including medication. If allowed in your state and right for you, this can include controlled substances. Start with a short online assessment.
Non-medication Alternatives for Vyvanse
Some with ADHD may consider non-medication alternatives to Vyvanse. 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 Vyvanse 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.4
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 Vyvanse 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 VYvanse 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 Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse?
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Generic Version of Vyvanse Work the Same as the Brand Name?
Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate is a generic version of brand name Vyvanse with the same uses and risks as Vyvanse.
Why Might I Need to Consider a Vyvanse Alternative?
Vyvanse alternatives may be needed for people who have taken Vyvanse but did not respond well enough, had an allergic reaction, or had intolerable side effects. Vyvanse can also interact with other substances and medications.
Do I Need to Consider a Vyvanse Alternative if I’m Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
It’s possible. The impact of stimulant and non-stimulant medications is 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 a Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse Withdrawal Effects When Stopping or Switching Medications?
You can prevent experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse Before I Consider an Alternative?
It may depend on the reason for considering a Vyvanse 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.
ChoosingTherapy.com 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.
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Vyvanse- lisdexamfetamine dimesylate capsule Vyvanse- lisdexamfetamine dimesylate tablet, chewable. (October 13, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Budur, K., Mathews, M., Adetunji, B., Mathews, M., & Mahmud, J. (2005). Non-stimulant treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 2(7), 44–48.
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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/
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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
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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
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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
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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”. Retitled and revised “Natural Alternatives to Vyvanse” to “Non-medication Alternatives for Vyvanse” and “Over-the-counter Vyvanse Alternatives”. Retitled and revised “Is There a Generic for Vyvanse?” and moved to FAQs. “Revised and expanded “What Medications Are Alternatives to Vyvanse?”, “Stimulant ADHD Medications”, “Non-stimulant Medications”, and “Are There Affordable Alternatives to Vyvanse?”. Added new sections; “Key Takeaways”, “How to Get a Prescription for Vyvanse 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 Vyvanse?”, “What Are the Common Side Effects of Medical Alternatives?”, “For Further Reading”. Added FAQs.
Author: Christin Black, PharmD
Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
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ADHD Diagnosis & Treatment at Talkiatry
Talkiatry – can match you with a psychiatrist who takes your insurance. Their clinicians can evaluate you for ADHD and prescribe medication. This can include controlled substances if they’re right for you and allowed by your state. Get started with a short online assessment.
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
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
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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.
