22 prescription Adderall alternatives for ADHD symptom relief in 2024
Written by Klarity Editorial Team
Published: Aug 29, 2024
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Paul Hetrick
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If you’ve been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you’ve probably heard of Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine). But if it doesn’t work for you, there are effective Adderall alternatives to talk to your provider about.
In this article, we explore 22 prescription alternatives for Adderall. Learn about the various ADHD medication classes, their strengths and weaknesses, and how they compare to Adderall, including:
If you’re struggling with ADHD or looking for an alternative to Adderall, find a provider for ADHD treatment and have an appointment in as little as 24 hours.
Prescription Adderall alternatives — from stimulants to non-stimulants to antidepressants
About 4.4% of American adults have ADHD. But, for some Adderall isn’t an effective medication or the right choice. Maybe you’ve taken Adderall and experienced side effects like anxiety or trouble sleeping. Maybe you’re concerned about dependence or shortages.
The good news is there are Adderall alternatives. The primary ADHD medications are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and non-stimulants, which include antidepressants to treat your ADHD symptoms.
Stimulant medications, like Adderall, are typically the first choice to treat ADHD. They boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. These neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, play a role in mood regulation and cognitive function. By boosting their levels in the brain, stimulant medications help improve alertness, focus, impulsivity, and motivation.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of stimulants to treat ADHD.
Pros of stimulants
Cons of stimulants
Provide quick symptom relief, often within hours of the first dose.
Often come in short-acting and extended-release forms, offering flexibility. Short-acting forms work fast, while extended-release forms last longer.
Effectively relieve ADHD symptoms.
Can cause side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite, anxiety, and increased heart rate.
Carry a risk of misuse, dependency, and abuse. Immediate-release stimulants have a higher risk of abuse because they’re absorbed more quickly.
Most stimulants are controlled substances due to the risk of dependency and misuse.
Pros and cons of non-stimulants for ADHD
If you can’t or don’t want to take or don’t tolerate stimulants, your provider may prescribe a non-stimulant ADHD medication. They work by gradually changing the levels of brain chemicals related to impulse control and attention. Here’s a breakdown of their pros and cons.
Pros of non-stimulants
Cons of non-stimulants
Typically fewer side effects, such as trouble sleeping or decreased appetite, compared to stimulants.
Less likely to cause dependence or be misused.
Not controlled substances.
Can take several weeks to reach their full effect.
May be less effective in managing ADHD symptoms than stimulants.
Can cause side effects, such as fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches.
Pros and cons of antidepressants
Antidepressants are a non-stimulant medication usually used to treat depression. Some are prescribed off-label for a condition they’re not U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved to treat — in this case to manage ADHD symptoms.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of antidepressants for ADHD.
Pros of antidepressants
Cons of antidepressants
Some research suggests certain antidepressants can help with focus and attention, particularly for people with ADHD and co-existing depression.
People who struggle with stimulant side effects may tolerate antidepressants better.
Lack of research on their effectiveness for ADHD compared to other medication options.
Can take several weeks to reach their full effect.
Now that you understand the categories of ADHD medications, let’s look at some specific Adderall alternatives and how they compare.
22 ADHD medication alternatives to Adderall
Here are the basics of 22 alternatives to Adderall. Learn about the medication type, forms and dosing, side effects, availability, and user ratings for each.
1. Mydayis as an Adderall alternative
Both Mydayis (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Adderall have the same active ingredients, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. They increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to help improve focus and reduce impulsivity in people with ADHD.
One key difference when comparing Mydayis vs Adderall is available forms. Adderall comes in both immediate-release and extended-release (XR) forms. Mydayis is only available as an extended-release option. Adderall XR works for 10 to 12 hours while Mydayis lasts up to 16 hours, making it 1 of the longest-acting Adderall alternatives.
Users on drugs.com give Mydayis a 5.7 out of 10 rating for ADHD, compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Mydayis forms: Extended-release capsule (oral) Most common side effects: Trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, dry mouth, increased heart rate, anxiety, weight loss Mydayis availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
2. Evekeo instead of Adderall
Evekeo (amphetamine sulfate) is a stimulant drug that includes an equal mix of dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine. Adderall has 75% dextroamphetamine and 25% amphetamine (as levoamphetamine). When comparing Evekeo vs Adderall, it’s important to note the difference in formulations. It can impact how you respond to each medication, and how effective they are for managing your ADHD symptoms.
Evekeo is an immediate-release formula that lasts up to 6 hours. That’s comparable to immediate-release Adderall which lasts around 4 to 6 hours.
Evekeo has a rating of 6.9 out of 10 for ADHD on drugs.com. Adderall is rated 7.2 out of 10 on the same site. Reviewers say that Evekeo is “more mild” than Adderall and makes them feel less “wired.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD in children, narcolepsy, and exogenous obesity Evekeo forms: Oral tablet Most common side effects: Headache, stomachache, trouble sleeping, decreased appetite, unpleasant taste Evekeo availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
3. Ritalin as an alternative to Adderall
Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a CNS stimulant that effectively treats core ADHD symptoms, like lack of focus and inattention. When comparing Ritalin vs Adderall, a key difference is their chemical composition. While Adderall is amphetamine-based, Ritalin is a non-amphetamine stimulant. As a result, it may have slightly fewer side effects and be less likely to cause dependence than Adderall.
Reviewers on drugs.com rate Adderall 7.2 out of 10 and Adderall XR 7.9 out of 10, compared to 6.9 out of 10 for Ritalin. Reddit user RN-MaleNurse said, “For me, Ritalin provides a cleaner, brighter clarity of cognition. Adderall is a much harsher systemic stimulant. In my case, Ritalin is more effective, and seems more sustainable long-term.”
Both drugs come in immediate-release and extended-release forms. Note that immediate-release Ritalin (Ritalin IR) only lasts 2 to 3 hours while immediate-release Adderall lasts up to 6 hours in the body. Likewise, extended-release Ritalin lasts 5 to 7 hours while Adderall XR lasts up to 12.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy Ritalin forms: Oral tablet, extended-release capsule, and extended-release tablet Most common side effects: Fast or abnormal heartbeat (palpitations), headache, trouble sleeping, and nervousness Ritalin availability: 10-milligram Ritalin IR is in shortage at the time of publication; other forms have no reported shortages
4. Concerta as an Adderall alternative
Both Concerta (methylphenidate) and Adderall are stimulant medications. Concerta has the same active ingredient as Ritalin, methylphenidate. And, it’s most comparable to extended-release Ritalin and Adderall XR. It uses a special delivery system called osmotic-controlled release oral delivery (OROS). OROS slowly releases the medication into your body over time. Between Concerta vs Adderall, durations are similar — both are effective for up to 12 hours.
Drugs.com users give Concerta a 6.8 out of 10 rating, compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. Reviews from Reddit users are divided. Some people tolerate Concerta better than Adderall and vice versa. Many cited side effects and “crashes” with either drug as the reason for switching to the other.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Concerta forms: Extended-release tablet Most common side effects: Decreased appetite, headache, dry mouth, nausea, and trouble sleeping Concerta availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
5. Quillivant XR and Quillichew ER
Quillivant XR (methylphenidate) and Quillichew ER (methylphenidate hydrochloride) are both forms of methylphenidate, like Ritalin and Concerta. Quillivant XR is a liquid while Quillichew ER is a chewable tablet. Both are extended-release medications.
When comparing Adderall vs Quillivant XR and Quillichew ER, note that different forms suit different needs. While Adderall only comes in pill form, Quillivant XR’s liquid form and Quillichew ER’s chewable form are easier to take if you can’t swallow pills. Although Reddit users mention that it can make taking your ADHD medication more difficult. You have to draw up your Quillivant dose into a syringe and remember to clean the syringe between uses.
Quillivant XR has just a 5.6 out of 10 rating on drugs.com. Compare that to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. This may be due to Quillivant being primarily prescribed for children with ADHD.
Quillivant XR and Adderall XR both last up to 12 hours. Quillichew ER lasts up to 8 hours.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Drug forms: Quillivant XR is an extended-release liquid suspension, Quillichew ER is an extended-release chewable tablet Most common side effects: Mood swings, irritability, fast heart rate, decreased appetite, nausea Availability: No reported shortage as of the time of publication
6. Adhansia and Aptensio instead of Adderall
Adhansia (methylphenidate) is a stimulant ADHD medication that was discontinued in 2022. A similar drug, Aptensio XR (methylphenidate), is also an extended-release form of methylphenidate, like Ritalin XR or Concerta.
When comparing Aptensio XR and Adhansia XR vs Adderall, a key difference to note is that Aptensio XR uses multilayer bead technology in its capsules. The beads release some of the medication immediately and then more over time. This means it works quickly after you take it and its effects last longer in the body — up to 16 hours. In comparison, Adderall XR lasts only 12 hours.
Users on drugs.com rate Aptensio XR at 6.8 out of 10. That compares to a 7.9 out of 10 rating for Adderall XR. Reviews on drugs.com indicate that Aptensio XR may be more commonly prescribed for children with ADHD than adults.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy Drug forms: Extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Stomach pain, decreased appetite, headache, trouble sleeping Availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
7. Daytrana
Daytrana (methylphenidate) contains the same active ingredient as Ritalin, methylphenidate. But, it comes as a transdermal patch that slowly releases medication through your skin to create a steady effect throughout the day. It takes about 2 hours to begin working once applied. It may be preferable for people who can’t take medications by mouth. It can only be used for 9 hours though, so a new patch has to be applied daily.
Metadate CD (methylphenidate) is another methylphenidate-based alternative to Adderall. It uses a unique bead mixture of methylphenidate that releases 30% of the medication immediately and the remaining 70% gradually throughout the day.
Daytrana’s effect on ADHD symptoms is similar to Ritalin, though reviewers on drugs.com rate Daytrana higher than both Ritalin and Adderall. While Ritalin is rated 6.9 out of 10 and Adderall XR is rated 7.9 out of 10, Daytrana has an 8.3 out of 10 rating.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Daytrana forms: Extended-release transdermal patch Most common side effects: Decreased appetite, nausea, trouble sleeping, weight loss, dizziness Daytrana availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
8. Metadate CD as an Adderall alternative
Its effects don’t last as long as Adderall’s though. Metadate CD lasts 8 to 9 hours, while Adderall XR lasts up to 12 hours.
On drugs.com, users give Metadate CD a rating of 7.1 out of 10, compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. Reddit users who take Metadate CD report that its effectiveness can vary from day to day. User Personal_Crow_17 says, “It [Metadate CD] seems semi-effective like maybe more than nothing, sometimes pretty good, and other times like not effective at all. It’s very odd…. I used to be on Adderall XR […], and I don’t remember having such a varied response to the medication.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Metadate CD forms: Extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Anorexia, trouble sleeping Metadate CD availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
9. Methylin as an Adderall alternative
Methylin (methylphenidate) is a non-amphetamine Adderall alternative that’s similar to Quillivant. It’s a liquid solution, which may make it a good option if you struggle to swallow pills. Though it doesn’t last as long as Adderall. Methylin ER lasts up to 8 hours in the body while Adderall XR lasts up to 12 hours.
Reviewers on drugs.com rate Methylin higher than Adderall — 8.2 out of 10, compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. People who reviewed it on drugs.com also say that it’s more effective than other forms of methylphenidate for ADHD, including Ritalin.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy Methylin forms: Extended-release (ER) tablet and oral solution Most common side effects: Increased heart rate, headache, anxiety, weight loss, dry mouth Methylin availability: Limited availability as of the time of publication
10. Jornay PM as an Adderall alternative
Jornay PM (methylphenidate) differs from other methylphenidate-based ADHD medications in that you take it in the evening. Its special extended/delayed-release mechanism kicks in 8 to 12 hours later to help relieve ADHD symptoms that interfere with early morning activities. This unique delivery system offers a steady release of medication throughout the day too.
Overall, Jornay PM can help you maintain focus and productivity without have to take multiple doses throughout the day (which is a possibility with Adderall).
On drugs.com, Jornay PM is rated 9.5 out of 10 (15 reviews) compared to 7.9 for Adderall XR (214 reviews). Reddit user shyforever says, “Jornay PM is a great med. I thought it was more effective and had longer duration than other stimulants I tried, including Vyvanse. And […] it didn’t give me gastrointestinal side effects like every other form of methylphenidate I had tried before. Good stuff! Main drawbacks are: not usually covered by insurance […] and that you have to be pretty rigid with your sleep schedule.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Jornay PM forms: Extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, nausea, vomiting, indigestion Jornay PM availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
11. Vyvanse compared to Adderall
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is an amphetamine-based Adderall alternative. Like Adderall, Vyvanse is a stimulant that’s effective for treating ADHD symptoms. And it has similar side effects.
There are a few differences to note when comparing Vyvanse vs Adderall though. Adderall comes in both immediate- and extended-release forms, while Vyvanse is only an extended-release medication.
And, while Adderall XR lasts up to 12 hours, Vyvanse’s effects last for up to 14 hours — but it can take up to 2 hours to feel them. That’s because Vyvanse is a prodrug. Its active ingredient has to be converted to amphetamine by the body. This also means it’s less likely to lead to dependence than Adderall.
When it comes to popular opinion, drugs.com users rate Vyvanse similarly to Adderall. Vyvanse is rated 7.3 out of 10 while Adderall is rated 7.2 out of 10 and Adderall XR is rated 7.9 out of 10. One Reddit user says, “I have a ‘meh’ experience with Adderall. It doesn’t consistently help me with symptoms but it’s better than nothing. Vyvanse, however, was a game-changer for me. It’s not perfect […], but it made such a difference that I’m able to […] be much more productive.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and moderate to severe binge eating disorder (BED) Vyvanse forms: Oral capsule and chewable tablet Most common side effects: Anorexia, decreased appetite, diarrhea, dry mouth, trouble sleeping Vyvanse availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
12. Focalin instead of Adderall
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is an Adderall alternative with a different active ingredient. Dexmethylphenidate is a prodrug, meaning it’s converted to methylphenidate in the body. It works on dopamine levels in the brain, while Adderall affects dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.
Focalin can be helpful for people who don’t tolerate Adderall or amphetamine-based stimulants well. But Adderall may offer greater symptom relief for some people because it works on more neurotransmitters. Both medications come in immediate- and extended-release forms that work for the same amount of time.
Real people compare Focalin vs Adderall in reviews online. On drugs.com, Focalin is rated just 5.7 out of 10 compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. Reddit users who’ve taken both drugs say Focalin is more physically stimulating — many feel the need to get up and move soon after taking it. And that taking a break from Focalin is harder than with Adderall XR.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Focalin forms: Focalin: oral tablet and Focalin XR: extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Abdominal pain, fever, anorexia, nausea Focalin availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
13. Azstarys as an Adderall alternative
Azstarys (serdexmethylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate) combines 2 active ingredients, serdexmethylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate, in a single tablet. The mix provides a quick onset of action and a long-lasting effect for continuous symptom control throughout the day.
Like Adderall, Azstarys is a CNS stimulant. It works for up to 13 hours, compared to Adderall XR’s 12 hours. There’s no generic version of Azstarys, so it’s often more expensive than getting generic Adderall.
On drugs.com, Azstarys is rated 7.4 out of 10 compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. Reddit user Ga1acticTarantu1a says Azstarys is definitely more expensive than Adderall, but the side effects are less severe. They also find it more effective for their ADHD symptoms than Adderall.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Azstarys forms: Oral capsule Most common side effects: Decreased appetite, nausea, indigestion, weight loss, dizziness Azstarys availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
14. Dexedrine as an Adderall alternative
Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) is an amphetamine-based CNS stimulant, like Adderall. But Dexedrine’s only active ingredient is dextroamphetamine, while Adderall combines dextroamphetamine and amphetamine. Because of this Dexedrine only affects the CNS, while Adderall targets both the CNS and peripheral nervous system (PNS). This means it has a broader action, affecting the nervous system throughout the whole body.
When further comparing Dexedrine vs Adderall, it’s important to note how long their effects last. Dexedrine works for up to 10 hours, while Adderall XR lasts up to 12 hours.
While reviewers on drugs.com rate Dexedrine higher than Adderall (8.5 out of 10 compared to 7.9 out of 10, respectively), Reddit users who tried Adderall first feel differently. Many say Dexedrine makes their anxiety worse and that they have a harder time regulating emotions with it compared to Adderall.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy Dexedrine forms: Extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Fast heartbeat, decreased appetite, tremors, headache, trouble sleeping Dexedrineavailability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
15. Xelstrym compared to Adderall
Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine) has the same active ingredient as Dexedrine. It’s a patch and not a pill though. It releases dextroamphetamine slowly through the skin to help manage ADHD symptoms consistently for up to 9 hours (longer than Adderall XR’s 12). The extended-release mechanism can be a benefit, but remembering to remove the patch on time can be difficult.
Approved in 2022, Xelstrym is much newer than Adderall and not prescribed as much. Out of 5 total reviews on drugs.com, Xelstrym is rated 8.6 out of 10. This compares to Adderall XR’s 7.9 out of 10 rating from 214 reviews. One Reddit user claims, “I’ve been on ADHD meds since 1995. I’ve been on almost every ADHD med released since then, and I would put Xelstrym in the top 2 of meds I have tried so far.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Xelstrym forms: Transdermal patch Most common side effects: Decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, stomach pain, nausea, increased blood pressure Xelstrym availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
16. Zenzedi or ProCentra as an Adderall alternative
Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine) and ProCentra (dextroamphetamine) are Adderall alternatives that have the same active ingredient as Dexedrine and Xelstrym. And their effect on ADHD symptoms is similar. But dosing is slightly different.
Like Adderall, Zenzedi comes in an immediate-release tablet that works for up to 6 hours. ProCentra is an immediate-release oral solution that works for up to 6 hours. All 3 drugs can be taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. If you prefer an extended-release option, Adderall XR lasts up to 12 hours.
Both Zenzedi and ProCentra are rated higher than Adderall on drugs.com, but there aren’t many reviews comparatively. While Zendedi is rated 9.1 out of 10, it only has 32 reviews. And ProCentra’s 9.5 out of 10 rating comes from just 2 reviews. Meanwhile, Adderall’s 7.2 out of 10 rating comes from 468 reviews and Adderall XR’s 7.9 out of 10 comes from 214 reviews. One reason, pointed out by Reddit users who’ve been prescribed Zenzedi, is lack of insurance coverage and availability at pharmacies.
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD and narcolepsy Forms: Zenzedi: oral tablet and ProCentra: oral solution Most common side effects: Fast heartbeat, decreased appetite, tremors, headache, trouble sleeping Availability: No reported shortages at the time of publication
17. Modafinil and armodafinil compared to Adderall
Modafinil (brand-name Provigil) and armodafinil (brand-name Nuvigil) are both CNS stimulants and eugeroic medicines, which means they promote wakefulness and alertness. Both are FDA-approved to treat narcolepsy and sleep disorders. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can improve attention and reduce impulsivity for people with ADHD. As such, they’re used off-label to treat ADHD symptoms. Please note: the use of off-label drugs comes with risks. Klarity Health does not promote the use of off-label or non-FDA-approved medications for any reason.
Modafinil is considered to have a lower risk for abuse and dependence than Adderall. And it’s 1 of the longest-acting Adderall alternatives — it works for up to 15 hours.
For off-label ADHD use, drugs.com users rate modafinil 7.6 out of 10, compared to 7.9 out of 10 for Adderall XR. Reddit user Just-Seaworthiness39 says, “It [modafinil] worked better for focus with my body chemistry than Adderall. Plus, it had less overall physical side effects. The dealbreaker was that it gave me the worst insomnia.”
Medication type: Stimulant FDA-approved uses: Narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and shift work disorder (SWD) Modafinil forms: Oral tablet Most common side effects: Headache, diarrhea, back pain, feeling anxious, nausea Modafinil availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
18. Strattera as an Adderall alternative
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant alternative to Adderall for ADHD. It’s a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) that works for ADHD by affecting neurotransmitters, like norepinephrine and dopamine, in the brain to improve attention and focus.
While they both effectively treat ADHD, stimulant ADHD medications differ from non-stimulants in how they work in the body, and the side effects they can cause. One may work better for you than the other. Strattera for ADHD is a good option for people who can’t or don’t want to take stimulants or are at risk of dependency. Also, you only take it once every 24 hours. But it takes longer to work — it may take up to 8 weeks to fully relieve symptoms.
Users on drugs.com give atomoxetine (Stratterra) for ADHD a 5.2 out of 10 rating compared to 7.2 for Adderall or 7.9 for Adderall XR. Many Reddit users say Strattera’s side effects are worse than Adderall’s.
Medication type: Non-stimulant and antidepressant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Atomoxetine forms: Oral capsule Most common side effects: Constipation, dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, dizziness Atomoxetine availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
19. Qelbree compared to Adderall
Qelbree (viloxazine), like Strattera, is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI). As a non-stimulant, it doesn’t lead to dependence and isn’t likely to cause sleep disturbances. It’s effects last all day, but it may take a few weeks to be fully effective.
Reviewers on drugs.com give Qelbree for ADHD a 4.9 out of 10 rating (compared to 7.2 for Adderall or 7.9 for Adderall XR). Comments on Reddit indicate Qelbree’s side effects may be the reason for the low rating.
Medication type: Non-stimulant and antidepressant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Qelbree forms: Extended-release capsule Most common side effects: Insomnia, sleepiness, nausea, dry mouth, headache Qelbree availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
20. Wellbutrin as an Adderall alternative
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a non-stimulant antidepressant FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder. Providers sometimes prescribe it off-label for ADHD as well. It’s a norepinephrine and dopamine uptake inhibitor (NDRI) that affects both dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This helps improve attention and concentration in people with ADHD and makes it an Adderall alternative for those who don’t respond well to stimulants.
Like other non-stimulant ADHD medications, Wellbutrin takes 2 to 4 weeks to be fully effective but each dose lasts 24 hours.
There are no reviews for Wellbutrin for ADHD on drugs.com, but Reddit users have mixed feelings. Some say it amplifies their ADHD symptoms, while others find it good at addressing symptoms that Adderall didn’t.
Medication type: Non-stimulant and antidepressant FDA-approved uses: Major depressive disorder (MDD) Wellbutrin forms: Extended-release tablet Most common side effects: Headache, dry mouth, nausea, trouble sleeping, dizziness Wellbutrin availability:No reported shortage at the time of publication
21. Intuniv instead of Adderall
Intuniv (guanfacine) is another non-stimulant alternative to Adderall. It’s an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that works on the brain’s alpha-2 receptors to improve impulse control and attention. It works for up to 24 hours, but may take up to 2 weeks before you notice its full effects.
Users on drugs.com give Intuniv a 6.3 out of 10 rating compared to 7.2 for Adderall or 7.9 for Adderall XR. People who like it report it gives them greater productivity and focus.
FDA-approved uses: ADHD Intuniv forms: Extended-release tablet Most common side effects: Sleepiness/fatigue, trouble sleeping, low blood pressure, nausea Intuniv availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
22. Clonidine and clonidine ER (Kapvay)
Clonidine and its extended-release form (clonidine ER) are non-stimulant medications. They can be used alone for ADHD or alongside a stimulant medication. It works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the brain, which lowers heart rate and relaxes blood vessels to reduce blood pressure. Though its specific effects on attention and impulsivity in ADHD aren’t fully understood.
Immediate-release clonidine works for up 8 hours (compared to up to 6 for Adderall). The extended-release form can work for up to 12 hours (similar to Adderall XR).
Users on drugs.com rate clonidine 7.5 out of 10 compared to 7.2 for Adderall or 7.9 for Adderall XR. Reddit users who take clonidine for ADHD often report that it makes them drowsy during the day, but are otherwise positive.
Medication type: Non-stimulant FDA-approved uses: ADHD Clonidine forms: Immediate-release tablet, extended-release tablet, injectable solution, transdermal system Most common side effects: Sleepiness/fatigue, irritability, trouble sleeping (insomnia), nightmare Clonidine availability: No reported shortage at the time of publication
Therapy as an Adderall addition not an alternative
A combination of therapy and medication is considered the most effective treatment approach to ADHD. Studies show that combining therapy with medication is more effective than medication alone. Talk to your provider about incorporating therapy or a medication, if needed, into your ADHD treatment plan.
A licensed therapist can work with you to better understand your ADHD and develop coping skills for your symptoms. They can also refer you to a licensed provider who can prescribe medication as part of your treatment plan. If you already have a provider for medication, they can help you find a therapist if needed. You can also find both types of providers on Klarity Health.
Talk to an ADHD provider about an Adderall alternative
Looking for Adderall alternatives? There’s no better way to know which alternative is right for you than to talk to a licensed medical professional. Find an ADHD provider to talk about which Adderall alternative, if any, may be right for you on Klarity Health.
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. ADHD medications that are controlled substances may not be appropriate for all patients and any mention of these medications is for educational purposes only, not for marketing or encouraging self-diagnosis. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage
If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.
CNS Drugs, A randomized, double-blind, crossover study of once-daily dexmethylphenidate in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: rapid onset of effect, Matthew Brams et al., Aug. 2012, https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00023210-200822080-00006
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, A review of the use of modafinil for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Danielle Turner, Apr. 2006, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16623645/
This article went through rigorous fact-checking by a team of medical reviewers. Reviewers are trained medical professionals who ensure each article contains the most up-to-date information, and that medical details have been correctly interpreted by the author. Learn more about the editorial and medical review process and standards for the HelloKlarity site.
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