Adderall is a relief medicine used to treat patients with Hyper Activity Disorder, popularly known as ADHD. It can be found in adults or children who are above three years of age. This disorder occurs when the person begins to act faster than s/he should because the brain activity is processing information faster than necessary.
Some of the symptoms of ADHD include inattentiveness, lack of attention to detail, acting without thinking, fidgeting, speedy acts, always moving about, lack of concentration, not being able to sit still, too much energy and a few other hyperactive activities.
Adderall is used to treat this Hyper Activity Disorder which can be found in both children and adults. It is made in oral and tablet forms to suit different age grades. It belongs to the Amphetamine family, and it is used to treat the signs that were mentioned above. It helps to reduce the hyper activities being carried out by the individuals with the disorder.
It also helps to slow down their actions and process things naturally in their brain. Adderall is a stimulant that regulates brain activities. It is also used to treat Narcolepsy, which is a kind of sleeping disorder.
Pros
- Adderall can help to regulate the hyper activities being carried out by the ailing individual.
- It helps to calm the body in emergency situations.
- It improves listening skills.
Cons
- It can cause loss of appetite, drowsiness, nausea and fever.
- The wrong dosage has an immediate side effect.
If you are looking for other Adderall alternatives, you have come to the right place. This post was created mainly to show you the list of drugs similar to Adderall. Below are some of the best Adderall alternatives.
20 Adderall Alternatives
Aside from Adderall, there are a number of other medications that can be used in place of it. Most of them can be used to treat ADHD, while others can be used to treat more ailments. Depending on the person’s body, reaction to the medication, age and allergies, Adderall might not be suitable for everyone.
This is why there are other options available. One thing to note is that these other options must be recommended and prescribed by the Doctor and Pharmacist before they are administered.
1. Concerta
The first alternative on our list of Adderall alternatives is Concerta. Concerta just like Adderall is a medicine taken to treat and control ADHD. It is in the same stimulant drug family as Adderall. It can be used by both children and adults. It helps to reduce the hyper activities of doing too much, being faster than necessary, not being able to concentrate at work or school and overreacting to things. The drug helps the individual to focus, plan, be more organized, take control of his/her activities and be conscious of the environment. Concerta users are likely to have the same results as Adderall users because they perform the same function.
The medicine is used in place of Adderall because some people might react to some ingredients embedded in the former, but in terms of functionality, it is the same. It also works on the brain just like Adderall.
Depending on the individual, either of them is suitable. Concerta is a type of methylphenidate hydrochloride tablet.
Pros
- Concerta lasts for up to 12 hours.
- Works fast.
Cons
- Loss of Appetite.
- Nausea
- Weight loss.
- Extreme cases of seizures or blurred vision.
2. Focalin
Focalin is a stimulant used to treat hyperactivity disorder. It is a mild kind of stimulant that helps the central nervous system to function. It works with the brain to control hyperactivity and impulse disorder. Focalin is also in the generic class of dexymethylphenidate.
The common brand names are Focalin and Focalin XR. It is in the drug class of CNS stimulants. Focalin can be used as a single treatment or a part of the treatment used for ADHD patients. It can function on its own or with other drugs, depending on the situation.
This Adderall alternative must be prescribed by the Doctor or Pharmacist before use. Focalin is not to be used if the patient has been given a MAO inhibitor or a methylene blue injection in the last two weeks. They do not go together.
Also, if the patient has traces of glaucoma, severe anxiety or tics, Focalin should not be administered. It can be taken with or without eating. The usual dosage is two capsules daily, with at least 4 hours gap between.
Pros
- If well kept, it can last till its expiry date.
- It can be taken without eating.
Cons
- Depending on the patient, it can cause circulation problems, chest pain, headache and some reactions.
- It should not be used for pregnant women.
3. Focalin XR
Focalin XR is among the Adderall alternatives and is also known as dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride. It is usually in capsule form. It is the more advanced form of Focalin, with stronger impact and faster results. It can be paired with a group of other stimulants or can be taken alone.
It is also a form of treatment for individuals with deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can also be used for other purposes, depending on the Doctor’s prescription. So far, the drug is known to treat ADHD and a few other diseases that are not clearly stated. It is made in a 30g capsule and is commonly seen in blue or green colours.
The medicine has different names according to different brands, but it must have Focalin XR as its underlined name. It can be used to increase focus, decrease hyperactivity, restore sanity and decrease impulsive actions.
Treatment starts at the age of 6. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy. It can be taken with or without food, but it must be taken according to the doctor’s prescription.
Pros
- It is a mild stimulant.
- Reactions are not immediate.
Cons
- There can be side effects of loss of weight, anxiety, headaches, nausea and others, depending on the individual.
4. Intuniv
Intuniv is used to treat deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is also known as Guanfacine. Unlike Adderall and some others, this drug is not a stimulant. It helps to regulate the body from hyperactivity that is ongoing. It is usually combined with other psychological treatments to produce a good result. The healing process is not particularly known.
What is very obvious is that it reduces the patient’s hyper activities, regulates their activities, increases focus, helps them to listen better and gives a better sense of direction for their activities. The drug works with the brain, which is the central nervous system, to control the body’s activities. Intuniv is usually taken orally. It comes in capsule form, so it is swallowed whole. Most times, just one capsule is prescribed at a time. It can be taken after a meal. It is not to be chewed or crushed, just swallowed directly. Dosage is based on prescription and other individual factors of the patient’s body.
Pros.
- Helps to maintain focus.
- Helps to reduce hyperactivity.
Cons
- If wrongly used, it can lead to low blood pressure, drowsiness, constipation or stomach ache.
5. Kapvay
Kapvay is also an alternative to Adderall. It can also be used to treat ADHD, but it is also used to treat hypertension, menstrual disorder and some other disorders. It is also known as Clonidine Hydrochloride.
It helps to reduce the problems associated with deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a regulatory drug that reduces the problems attached to hyperactivity disorder. Kapvay works for other medical conditions, but for ADHD, it pays more attention to helping the patient retain focus and stop impulsive actions.
It focuses on slowing down their activities to tow in line with their brains. This is why it works directly with their brain to help process the activities and regulate the extreme ones.
It is recommended for use on those who are six years and above. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy and menopause-related issues. Just like others, it is taken orally, with or without food. It is made in tablet forms. It must be taken according to the prescription.
Pros.
- Reduces mental stress.
- Treats other ailments.
Cons
- It can cause hormone imbalance.
- It can cause anxiety and stress.
6. Metadate CD
Metadate CD is a stimulant drug alternative to Adderall. It belongs to the methylphenidate class. It is used to treat Deficit hyperactivity disorder in both children and adults. The medicine’s function differs according to the human body. It has one major purpose; to regulate the central nervous system, but it can also be used as an aiding treatment for other issues in the body.
Metadate CD is a regulatory stimulant that helps to calm the body from hyperactivities. It is a drug that works hand in hand with the body’s reactions to regulate it. According to research, the drug works by changing some natural substances in the brain to help it function better.
This particular Adderall alternative controls behavioural problems and helps to improve consciousness, listening skills and overall attentiveness. The drug comes in different forms and types, depending on the brand. It must be taken according to prescription to enable it to suit the individual’s body. It is taken orally.
It is to be swallowed whole without breaking or crushing. It is not to be taken with alcohol. It should be taken regularly for positive results. It can lead to some side effects depending on the patient’s body response.
Pros
- It helps to regulate the entire body system.
- It helps to organize the patient’s brain activities.
Cons
- Headache, vomiting, drowsiness, nausea and more, depending on the patient.
7. Quillivant XR
Quillivant XR is also a form of methylphenidate hydrochloride. It is a liquid form of medicine used to treat deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can be used for both adults and children alike.
It contains the same ingredients as Adderall, Ritalin and other methylphenidate hydrochloride drugs. It helps to increase direct focus and sensitivity among ADHD patients.
The Medicine helps to reduce the symptoms of the ailment. It helps to reduce overreactions, impulsive behaviours and other extreme characteristics. Quillivant also helps to calm the nerves of patients with the disorder. It keeps their brain in a regulatory mode and helps them to do the right time at the right time.
It is usually given to children from 6 years and above. It is a medicine that must be given with a prescription only so that it would not be abused. It is a restricted and controlled drug to avoid misuse.
The Adderall alternative has been approved to control behavioural activities in children and adults. The dosage depends on the Doctor’s prescription and the individual’s body. It is usually once daily and can last up to 12 hours.
Pros
- It can function well with other administered medications.
- It has a mild effect on the body.
Cons
- Side effects include headache, blurry vision, nausea, tiredness and more.
8. Ritalin
Ritalin belongs to the family of methylphenidate hydrochloride drugs. It is used to treat patients with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is also known as ADHD. It works with the brain, which is the central nervous system, to control the body’s activities. This Ritalin is a stimulant drug.
It has the ability to calm the hyper activities that are ongoing both internally and physically in the body. The medicine is usually recommended for children and adults from 6 years and above. It helps to increase attention span, helps to control focus, helps to organize one’s activities and improves listening skills.
Most patients with ADHD have issues with the aforementioned, so the constant use of the treatment helps to regulate all of it. The medicine comes in tablet form and is usually taken orally.
It must be taken according to the prescription. It can be taken once or twice daily depending on the prescription and individual’s reactions. Regular use is best advised to see good results. Changes should be reported to the doctor during the usage period.
Pros
- It is a mild stimulant.
- Results are visible in no time.
Cons
- Side effects include insomnia, anxiety and nausea.
9. Strattera
The next on our Adderall alternatives list is Strattera. Strattera is a brand of Atomoxetine. It is an oral treatment used to battle Deficit hyperactivity disorder in the human body.
People with this disorder are likely to display symptoms like inattentiveness, no focus, acting faster than necessary, not sitting in a place for more than a few minutes, jumping into conversations, acting without reasoning and many other hyperactivities that are beyond their control.
This is one of the medications that is designed to treat these issues and reduce the problems associated with them. The drug is used alone or together with other stimulants. It can only be used on children who are 6 years and above. It is an enhancing drug to help reduce lack of focus, inattentiveness and others.
It helps to boost the activities of the brain and reduce the speed with which it works. It helps the brain to become more alert, pay attention and limit it activities. It can be used on children, adolescents and adults. Dosage may differ. In comparison with Adderall, it has fewer abuse potentials. It also has leaders responses than stimulants.
Pros
- It has fewer side effects than other medications.
- Results are visible in no time.
Cons
It has some serious side effects that include stroke and heart problems.
10. Vyvanse
This Adderall alternative generic name is Lisdexamfetamine. It is used to treat patients with the Deficit hyperactivity disorder. It can be used for treatment in adults and children alike. The drug is a stimulant just like Adderall and some others.
It helps to regulate the major disorders that occur in the body due to the malfunctioning of the brain. It works with the brain to restore the balance of some natural substances to help reset the brain work.
The medication can be used on its own or with other stimulants to help boost brain activities to regulate it to a normal level. It can be combined with other therapeutic treatments to help speed up its work. It is usually taken orally and can be taken with or without food.
Most times, a single dose is taken daily. A prescription must be according to the Pharmacist’s instructions. The medicine comes in a chewable tablet form and a capsule form.
If it is the chewable one, it must be chewed properly before being swallowed. If it is the capsule, it must be swallowed as a whole without opening. The drug should be used constantly to see the results.
Pros
- It is available in tablet and capsule forms for ease of use on different patients.
- It is a mild stimulant.
Cons
- The side effects include insomnia, headache, nausea, fatigue and weakness.
11. Adhansia XR
Adhansia XR is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is almost the same as Adderall, but from a different brand.
It performs the same activities as Adderall and all the other methylphenidate hydrochloride drugs. It is a fast action stimulant that shows results in about two weeks. Adhansia XR is usually used on both children and adults, as the effectiveness is almost the same for all ages. Adhansia XR is a mild stimulant that is given to ADHD patients to help improve their focus control, attention and brain activities. It works with the brain to restore the balance of some natural chemicals that help the brain to function well. It is also used to treat narcolepsy in adults. It can last up to 16 hours, and the effect is always calming.
This Adderall alternative is usually taken once a day because the effect lasts a long. The drug can be addictive, so it is best advised to be taken only according to prescription and not otherwise. Patients that are pregnant have high blood pressure, have glaucoma or thyroid should not take it. It can cause something worse in return.
Pros
- It can blend in well with other medications.
- The side effects show quickly, so they can be attended to.
Cons.
- Extreme cases of depression and seizures may occur.
12. Azstarys
Azstarys is a brand of Serdexmethylphenidate or dexmethylphenidate. It is a stimulant drug used to treat those with Attention Deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD. The drug is just similar to Adderall but is an alternative to it in cases where Adderall is not available.
As mentioned earlier, it is just a brand name for dexmethylphenidate kind of drugs. It performs the same function as any other type in the same class. What differs is its name. The drug is used to reduce the hyper functionality of the brain’s activities. It helps to reduce the mental stress that comes with hyperactivity of the body.
It is one of the best Adderall alternatives that help to regulate focus, balance attention and give rational thinking to the patient. The drug is also known as KP415. It is a licensed and approved medication by the FDA. It is taken orally. Dosage is usually prescribed and approved by the Doctor or Pharmacist. It must always be taken according to the prescription. It can last up to 13 hours in the body.
Pros
- It can be used to treat both children and adults.
- It can be combined with other stimulants.
Cons
- Side effects include headache, weakness, tiredness and nausea.
13. Daytrana
Daytrana is a central nervous system stimulant approved by the FDA for the treatment of patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Like Adderall, it helps to balance the chemicals in the brain that help the body to function better. It is also known as the methylphenidate transdermal system.
People with the ADHD disorder are usually prone to hyperactive activities, which can cause disorientation in different ways. The use of the drug is to help regulate their function and stop or reduce these activities and give them a normal life.
The drug interacts directly with the brain, which is the central nervous system, to balance the chemicals in it, which would help regulate the entire brainwork. Daytrana is just like any other stimulant but is recommended for people with mild bodies. The reactions are not as harsh as some other ADHD drugs.
It is subtle. Dosage is always based on the medical practitioner’s prescription. It is a once-a-day medication. There is also the Daytrana patch that lasts up to 9 hours daily. It is mostly for children and young adults. It is usually applied two hours before the effect is needed.
Pros
- Works well for kids.
- Doesn’t have a strong adverse effect.
Cons
- Side effects include itching, vomiting and stomach pain.
Read more about it here
14. Dexedrine
Dexedrine is also known as Dextroamphetamine. It can be found in other brands like Dextrostat, Xelstrym and Zenzedi. The medication is used to treat people who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a stimulant that works to regulate the central nervous system, which is the brain.
The ADHD occur when there is an imbalance in the chemicals of the brain. This could make a person act faster than s/he is supposed to. The activities are interpreted by the body in a different way causing the person to act out all forms of speedy reactions.
A hyperactive person is quick to get into uninvited conversations, speak before being asked to, be able to sit easy or rest for a long and exhibit some weird activities. These issues are a result of the brain’s heated state.
They can be controlled by dosages of Dexedrine, depending on the prescription of doctor. It helps to balance the brain’s focus on steady activities. The medication can be addictive and may have side effects. It can also be used to energize a person as an aphrodisiac or a euphoriant. You should add this among your best Adderall alternatives to consider.
Pros
- Functions for long hours.
- Does not have fatal reactions.
Cons
- Side effects include diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal pain.
15. Evekeo
Evekeo is also an approved medication like Adderall. It is also known as Amphetamine. It is used to calm the nervous system of a hyperactive person or improve the nervous system of a slow-acting person.
Mostly, it is used for hyperactive situations. Evekeo is a brand of Amphetamine. It also has other brand names which are common. It is a stimulant or an anorectic used to treat people who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
The medication has proven to be useful in reducing the hyperactive nature of many patients with that ailment. It helps them to focus better on things and do the right thing when necessary.
It works in such a way that it helps the brain to reduce its speed and work at a moment-defined rate to help the body function properly. It is also useful in treating depression, narcolepsy, chronic pain and obesity. It is used to achieve normal functioning of both the brain and body activities.
It helps to engage performance, reduce speedy actions and control activities in patients with ADHD. It is usually recommended by the Doctor and prescribed by the Pharmacist. Dosage can only be taken according to prescription.
Pros
- The medication can be used to treat both children and adults.
- Its effects are visible in a few weeks.
Cons
- Side effects of drowsiness, headache and fever.
16. Methylin
Methylin is also Adderall alternative known as Methylphenidate. It belongs to the class of stimulants which are used to stimulate the body against hyperactivity. It is mostly used to treat patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
It is similar to Adderall. When Adderall is not available, patients can be given Methylin. They are of the same family but with different brand names. It is mainly used for ADHD treatment to help patients reduce their hyperactive nature. The brain processes information faster than necessary for them, and it causes different external behavioural problems. The use of Methylin and other stimulants of the same class can help to reduce them.
It works with the brain to balance the natural chemicals that cause hyperactivity and make the brain controlled. It can be seen as a brain-regulating drug. It should not be used if patients have extreme cases of glaucoma, blood pressure, thyroid or severe anxiety.
The dosage should only be taken according to prescription and should be stopped once there is a life-threatening effect.
Pros
- Methylin helps to control the body’s hyperactivity.
- It works for long hours.
Cons
- The drug can be addictive.
17. Quelbree
Quelbree is a non-stimulant drug just like Adderall and all the others on the Adderall alternatives list. It performs the same function of subduing hyperactivity in the body of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder patients.
If Adderall is not available, it can be taken in its place. It is one of the few non-stimulant medications available for ADHD patients. The medication is designed to help them fight the chemicals in the brain that cause hyperactivity in the body.
Quelbree is made in two different forms; for 6-17 years olds and for 18 years and above. Each age grade has the one that works for them. According to research, it is also used to treat depression and boost mood.
It is also known as Viloxazine. It is available in capsule forms. It is only given from the age of 6 and above. It is to be taken orally and swallowed as a whole. It must be taken according to the prescription.
Pros.
- Available in two forms, separately for children and adults.
- Helps effectively with depression.
Cons
- Side effects include loss of appetite, drowsiness, nausea, irritability and tiredness.
You can read more about it here.
18. Quillichew ER
Quillechew ER is a chewable ADHD medicine that is given to patients suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is available in different sizes. The generic name for it is methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release chewable tablets.
It is an extended-release tablet because it is made to last longer and has more effect on the patient than the regular one. It is a central nervous system stimulant drug. It functions as a stimulant to activate brain activities to become orderly to a certain extent.
Most times, the brain experiences an imbalanced situation when it is hit with this Hyperactivity Disorder. It leads to different hyperactive activities, such as uneasiness and restlessness.
It is assumed that the brain chemicals have destabilized and can no longer function well enough to hold the activities of the brain.
This is why it needs to be corrected by using ADHD drugs like Quillichew ER to help increase focus and attentiveness. It also helps to reduce impulsive actions and regulate the body system.
Pros
- It is available in 20mg, 30mg and 40mg dosages.
- It has quick action results.
Cons
- Side effects include headache, nausea, increased blood pressure and diarrhoea.
- Extreme cases include painful erections and stunted growth.
19. Journay PM
The next on this list of Adderall alternatives is Journay PM. It is also a central nervous system stimulant drug that is used to treat people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
It is recommended for use on those who are six years and above. It is an oral stimulant drug that can be taken once daily or according to prescription. The drug is designed to calm the nerves of hyperactive patients. It is a Federal controlled medication and can only be prescribed after due tests have been done. This medication is the only once-nightly ADHD drug available.
It is taken once a day and usually at night. It helps to relieve the body of any hyperactivity, especially in children. It provides the needed relief at the right time. Journey PM helps to reduce impulsiveness and reduce distraction in children and adults.
The drug is safe and effective. It should not be taken by those who are allergic to methylphenidate hydrochloride. Dosage must be prescribed by a medical practitioner, and it should depend on the individual’s body.
Pros
- It is taken only at night. No fear of effects disrupting the day.
- It is suitable for all age grades.
Cons
- Can lead to heart problems, mental problems and painful urination.
Click here to read more on this site.
20. Aptensio XR.
The last on our list is this Aptensio XR. It is an alternative to Adderall, just like all the others. It is also a type of Methylphenidate drug. Just like some of the ones on this list, it is a stimulant drug.
It is used to treat patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In the absence of Adderall, this Aptensio XR brand can suffice. The drug helps to regulate the brain process and keeps the patient in a stabilized situation for a period of time. It also helps to give permanent treatment to the patient.
This drug helps patients to focus, act normally and rest for a long. Most ADHD patients are usually uneasy and restless for a larger part of their day. The drug helps to control their brain and reduce hyperactivity.
Aptensio XR can be taken in tablet, capsule or liquid form. All of them must be taken orally and properly. The medication is usually prescribed by the Pharmacist and can be taken once or twice daily. It can be taken with or without food.
Pros
- Helps to reduce hyperactive activities in both children and adults.
- Easy to swallow.
Cons
- Extreme side effects of stillbirth, increased blood pressure and uneasiness.
Related: Advil Alternatives
Summary
This is a comprehensive list of 20 best Adderall alternatives that can be used for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. In cases where Adderall cannot be found, any of these can be used. It is important to note that these medications all have different compositions and are made by different brands, so they might work differently. It is advisable that tests should be run on patients to determine which medication works best for them. Again, the prescription must be strictly adhered to avoid overdose or the wrong dose.
Most of them are available in physical pharmacies and online pharmacies. You can also check out the ones with links to read more on how to where to buy and how to use them. Make proper consultations before purchasing any.