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7 Best Adderall Alternatives: Natural OTC ADHD Meds

Do you have trouble focusing on work or school? Has a medical professional diagnosed you with ADHD, but you’re unsure whether Adderall is right for you? Are you looking for a way to manage ADHD symptoms naturally?

13 November 2023, 4:02 pm Edit

7 Best Adderall Alternatives: Natural OTC ADHD Meds

Do you have trouble focusing on work or school? Has a medical professional diagnosed you with ADHD, but you’re unsure whether Adderall is right for you? Are you looking for a way to manage ADHD symptoms naturally?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, an over-the-counter Adderall alternative may suit your needs. These natural supplements contain ingredients to enhance cognitive function and mimic the effects of stimulant medications without the harsh side effects. Better yet, you can get them without a prescription.

Below, we have reviewed the six best Adderall alternatives available on the market today. Learn the pros and cons of each option and everything you need to know about natural alternatives to Adderall.

Best Natural Alternatives to Adderall

1. Brain Pill – The Natural Alternative

Brain Pill makes the ideal natural alternative providing faster recall, better concentration, and improved mental performance under pressure. Essentially, Brain Pill works to clear the fuzz associated with ADHD helping you focus on the task at hand.

Brain Pill is great for enhancing cognitive abilities, offering support for memory, concentration, and overall mental performance. It’s particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain a sharp mind and high levels of productivity throughout the day. This natural alternative is also designed to combat brain fog, making it easier to stay focused and effective in high-pressure situations.

With its focus on boosting mental stamina, Brain Pill is well-suited for individuals who strive for peak mental performance and long-term cognitive resilience. If you’re on the hunt for an Adderall alternative that will provide long-lasting support, Brain Pill could be a natural solution for you.

Benefits

Based on the Brain Pill website, taking this natural alternative can produce the following benefits:

  • Reduces brain fog
  • Improve learning skills
  • Improve memory and ability to recall
  • Supply nutrients
  • Reduce mental fatigue
  • Improve focus
  • Neuroprotection
  • Improve problem-solving and multitasking

How It Works

Brain Pill consists of carefully selected natural components tailored to enhance overall brain health. These ingredients are grouped based on their health benefits, with one set aimed at enriching overall brain vitality and another to boost cognitive prowess.

For enhancing mental energy and cognitive fuel, the formula includes:

  • Cognizin: 250mg
  • Tyrosine: 175mg
  • Phosphatidylserine: 100mg
  • Vitamin B12: 50mcg
  • L-Theanine: 100mg
  • Vitamin B5: 30mg
  • Vitamin B6: 6mg

For the advanced memory matrix and to support brain function, it contains:

  • Bacopa Monnieri (Synapsa): 320mg
  • Huperzine A: 5mg
  • Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): 400mcg
  • Vinpocetine: 5mg
  • Ginkgo Biloba: 100mg
  • DHA Complex: 100mg

Each of these components is chosen for its potential to assist in the maintenance and enhancement of memory, focus, and overall cognitive function making it a great Adderall alternative.

Directions

For best results from Brain Pill, it’s recommended that you take two capsules daily. The first, should be taken around the same time each morning so you can have a productive start to your day. The second easy-to-swallow capsule can be taken in the afternoon for enhanced mental performance throughout the day. Each capsule should be taken with 8-ounces of water for maximum absorbency.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Long-term brain-boosting benefits
  • All-natural formula
  • Bulk discounts
  • Clinically-studied ingredients
  • Money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Must take daily to keep seeing results

Overall, we’re convinced that Brain Pill could make the best possible long-term Adderall alternative for focus, mental clarity, and beyond.

Click Here for the Lowest Price on Brain Pill

2. Vyvamind – Boost Motivation and Drive

Vyvamind is our top choice for the best OTC Adderall alternative on the market. This natural supplement works quickly and targets a wide range of cognitive benefits. It contains a powerful formula of clinically proven ingredients.

Benefits

According to the Vyvamind creators, this Adderall alternative can produce the following benefits:

  • Maximize focus and clarity
  • Boost motivation and drive
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Prevent burnout

The company also boasts that Vyvamind begins working quickly. Some users experience these benefits within the first few days of taking Vyvamind. Still, the company recommends taking it for at least two to three months to begin seeing the most powerful benefits.

How It Works

Vyvamind uses what it calls “broad spectrum formulation” to produce the above benefits. This means the supplement contains diverse ingredients that produce unique benefits for cognitive function.

The supplement’s full ingredient list includes the following:

  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin B12
  • L-tyrosine
  • Citicoline
  • L-theanine
  • Caffeine anhydrous

Citicoline is a chemical that occurs naturally in the brain and consists of choline and cytidine. Vyvamind uses a supplement form of citicoline to boost focus, productivity, and brain energy. This ingredient may also raise antioxidant activity in the brain, protecting your brain function and supporting your neurotransmitter function.

The formula also includes the amino acid L-theanine. This component, commonly found in tea leaves, may support your dopamine, serotonin, and GABA levels. These are all neurotransmitters that serve different functions:

  • Dopamine contributes to memory, mood, attention, and motivation
  • Serotonin is a natural mood stabilizer
  • GABA produces a calming effect

Vyvamind is a neurostimulant, which means one of its main effects is helping you stay alert and focused. The main ingredient that produces this effect is caffeine anhydrous, a dehydrated form of caffeine.

The supplement contains 75 mg of caffeine in each dose. For reference, the average cup of coffee has about 100 mg of caffeine. Vyvamind probably won’t leave you feeling jittery unless you’re sensitive to caffeine, but it should provide just enough stimulation to keep your mind alert.

L-tyrosine is another amino acid that impacts dopamine levels. However, it also plays a role in your thyroid hormone levels. This hormone contributes to your mental energy along with several physical processes, including metabolism, body temperature, heat production, and skin, hair, and nail growth.

The final ingredients are vitamins B6 and B12. These are both water-soluble vitamins that play a role in cell metabolism and red blood cell synthesis. Together, they may also help lower your homocysteine metabolism.

High levels of homocysteine may lead to brain degeneration, mood imbalances, and cognitive decline, so taking these vitamins could prevent those effects.

Directions

Each bottle contains 60 pills, and the Vyvamind creators recommend taking one or two capsules each day. You may want to start with one and then increase your dose to two if you would like more powerful effects. In either case, take your dose with water.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Broad spectrum formula
  • Numerous benefits for brain health
  • Discounts when you buy more than one bottle
  • Overwhelmingly positive reviews

Cons:

  • Contains caffeine, which may not be suitable for everyone

Overall, Vyvamind is a reputable Adderall alternative that boasts many cognitive benefits and includes a reliable formula, topping our list of the best Adderall alternatives.

Click Here for the Best Price on Vyvamind

3. Nooceptin – Best for Keeping You Calm, Centered & Focused

Nooceptin is another great choice if you’re looking for the best OTC Adderall alternatives. The company describes this supplement as an “all-in-one cognitive enhancer,” and we’ve deemed it the best option on the list for cognitive benefits.

Benefits

Taking Nooceptin could produce the following cognitive benefits:

  • Boost cognitive function
  • Improve memory recall and retention
  • Help you stay calm and centered while dealing with stress
  • Improve mental energy throughout the day
  • Boost natural brain regeneration and neuron growth
  • Enhance mental clarity

How It Works

Nooceptin contains a curated blend of natural ingredients that enhance cognitive function. The formula consists of the following ingredients:

  • Lion’s mane extract
  • Citicoline
  • L-theanine
  • Panax ginseng extract
  • Rhodiola rosea extract
  • Bacopa monnieri extract
  • Ginkgo biloba extract

Lion’s mane extract is one of the formula’s key ingredients, as it promotes significant benefits for cognitive function. Lion’s mane is a type of mushroom rich in hericenones and erinacines, both of which stimulate the production of nerve growth factor in your neurons.

Nerve growth factor plays a significant role in the growth and maintenance of neurons, which send and receive neurotransmitters between brain cells. In a nutshell, stimulating nerve growth factor directly promotes cognitive health.

Next, citicoline is a naturally occurring brain chemical that affects several cognitive processes, including:

  • Focus
  • Learning
  • Working memory
  • Information processing

This is the fastest-acting ingredient in the Nooceptin formula and is what allows you to begin experiencing benefits quickly when you take the supplement.

One of the main functions of citicoline is raising your levels of acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine supports brain functions like memory, learning, and attention. Many researchers believe that people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have malfunctioning acetylcholine receptors.

Nooceptin also contains Panax ginseng extract, which is a nootropic that may support several aspects of brain performance. First, this extract may have neuroprotective qualities, helping your brain fight stress and anxiety. It may also help improve memory, perhaps as a result of its anti-anxiety effects.

Rhodiola rosea extract is another ingredient that may reduce anxiety. This extract is an adaptogen, which is the broad term for plant substances that help the body manage stress. The ingredient’s ability to lower stress levels may also lead to other benefits like improving mood, focus, and memory.

Bacopa monnieri extract is another adaptogen in the Nooceptin formula. People have long used this extract to naturally treat a wide range of cognitive conditions, such as:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • ADHD
  • Depression
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

It contains bacosides A and B, which are bioactive components that may help protect the brain against oxidative damage and promote the growth of new dendrites. Dendrites are the branches that connect neurons, and stimulating their growth can help neurons communicate more effectively.

Directions

The creators of Nooceptin recommend taking three capsules each day with a glass of water soon after you eat breakfast. To optimize your results for ADHD treatment, take your daily dose at the same time and always follow the instructions on the package.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Non-stimulant OTC Adderall alternative
  • Comprehensive formula for boosting cognitive function
  • Well-researched ingredient list

Cons:

  • Three-capsule daily dose

Overall, Nooceptin is one of the best Adderall alternatives for individuals looking for well-rounded benefits for cognitive function.

Click Here for the Best Price on Nooceptin

4. NooCube – Best for Brain Productivity

NooCube is another one of the best OTC Adderall alternatives. This supplement may be the right choice for people who have trouble staying productive, whether with work, school, or hobbies. The formula is caffeine-free, so you won’t need to worry about giving up your daily cup of coffee (or feeling jittery after taking it).

Benefits

NooCube promotes several benefits to help reduce ADHD symptoms and boost your focus and productivity. These benefits include:

  • Reducing brain fog
  • Protecting the eyes from screen-related fatigue
  • Enhancing focus
  • Improving problem-solving skills
  • Boosting mental alertness
  • Enhancing memory

How It Works

NooCube includes 12 nootropic ingredients that each offer varying benefits. The full ingredient list includes:

  • Lutemax® 2020
  • Bacopa monnieri
  • Pterostilbene
  • Panax ginseng concentrate
  • L-theanine
  • Resveratrol
  • Choline from VitaCholine®
  • L-tyrosine
  • Vitamin B1
  • Cat’s claw
  • D-biotin
  • Vitamin B12

One of the formula’s most potent ingredients is Lutemax® 2020, a proprietary extract from marigold flowers. This ingredient is a derivative of marigold plant extract, which contains three critical eye-brain nutrients:

  • Lutein
  • RR-zeaxanthin
  • RS-zeaxanthin

These nutrients play an important role in protecting eye health. Doctors often recommend them to patients at risk of macular degeneration, as they can slow the progression of this disease. They may also help prevent fatigue from staring at a screen for too long.

NooCube also mentions that Lutemax® 2020 may promote benefits for your brain’s ability to process information. This proprietary formula may aid processes like:

  • Memory
  • Listening comprehension
  • Visual acuity

The company references a double-blind study involving Lutemax® 2020, which found that participants experienced all of the following when taking this supplement:

  • Improved attention span
  • Increased processing speed
  • Stronger memory
  • Reduced mental stress

Lutemax® 2020 is only the first ingredient in the NooCube formula. This supplement contains 11 other nootropics that may boost cognitive function. Many of them are common in the other natural Adderall alternatives on our list.

NooCube recently updated its formula, so we’ll focus on the changes it made. The first change was swapping out glycerylphosphorylcholine for VitaCholine®.

VitaCholine® is a proprietary form of choline, an essential nutrient the body must get through either diet or supplementation. The VitaCholine supplement, through the power of choline and other ingredients, promotes healthy cognition and can support prenatal brain health in pregnant people.

The company also recently removed oat straw extract from its formula and replaced it with Panax ginseng to make the supplement gluten-free. Panax ginseng offers numerous benefits, including promoting cognitive function and alleviating fatigue. This ingredient has even shown promising cognitive benefits in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Another notable change in the formula was the transition from biotin to D-biotin. D-biotin is more bioavailable, helping your body absorb it more readily. In general, biotin plays a role in the metabolism of glucose in the brain, which your brain then uses for energy.

Directions

To see the best results from this Adderall alternative, take two capsules with water each day. You can take NooCube with or without food.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Recently improved formula
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Gluten- and caffeine-free
  • Discounts when purchased in bulk

Cons:

  • Contains a few proprietary ingredients that don’t share their full formulas

NooCube is overall one of the best Adderall alternatives for people who need a boost in productivity and focus.

Click Here for the Lowest Prices on NooCube

5. Hunter Focus – Best For Adults Aged 30+

Hunter Focus is one of the best Adderall alternatives for ambitious, aspirational adults aged 30 and above. The formula creators state that Hunter Focus isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula, as such formulas don’t exist. They specifically say that Hunter Focus isn’t optimized for students or senior citizens.

If you’re an adult aged 30 or older looking to support cognitive function or reduce ADHD symptoms naturally, Hunter Focus is an excellent choice to consider.

Benefits

Taking Hunter Focus can enhance cognitive function in a few different ways:

  • Boost memory retention
  • Improve focus
  • Reduce impulse control
  • Increase energy and prevent brain fog
  • Boost creativity and problem-solving potential
  • Increase happiness and decrease anxiety

How It Works

Hunter Focus contains an extensive formula of 20 ingredients, including the following:

  • Vitamins B6, B9, and B12
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin K2
  • Vitamin D3
  • Acetyl-L-Carnitine
  • L-tyrosine
  • Organic lion’s mane mushroom
  • Ashwagandha root
  • Bacopa
  • L-theanine
  • Citicoline
  • Caffeine
  • Ginkgo biloba
  • Phosphatidylserine
  • Rhodiola rosea extract
  • Maritime pine bark extract
  • Panax ginseng
  • Spanish sage

Almost all of these ingredients appear in other Adderall substitutes on our list. When taking Hunter Focus, you can combine the benefits of some of the other best Adderall alternatives, potentially optimizing your results.

Hunter Focus categorizes its ingredients into these three subsections:

  • Concentration activation
  • Memory matrix
  • Mood amplification

Citicoline is one of the key ingredients in the concentration activation category. This nootropic may boost brain function and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Hunter Focus references a study in which participants with both conditions saw an improvement in symptoms when taking citicoline supplementation.

Hunter Focus also contains Ginkgo biloba as part of its concentration activation category. This tree extract may increase blood flow to the brain and prevent stress-induced rises in blood pressure. A 2011 study even found that Ginkgo bilobasupplementation can reduce cognitive decline in elderly people.

In the supplement’s memory matrix category are ingredients that work synergistically to aid recall and enhance short-term and long-term memory. The main ingredient in this category is organic lion’s mane mushroom extract.

Lion’s mane mushroom may help boost cognitive function, especially in older people. It may also:

  • Reduce anxiety and irritation
  • Help stabilize your mood
  • Increase nerve growth factor (NGF) levels

The memory matrix category also includes Rhodiola rosea extract, which is the extract from a plant common in herbal medicine for boosting mood and reducing fatigue. It may also boost mental performance overall, aiding memory retention.

Hunter Focus’s mood amplification supplements include phosphatidylserine, ashwagandha root, caffeine anhydrous, and Panax ginseng. Ashwagandha root is a natural plant extract that appears in a wide range of supplements. It boasts many benefits, including:

  • Reducing fatigue
  • Lowering anxiety levels
  • Preventing anxiety-induced insomnia
  • Relieving stress
  • Improving sleep quality
  • Protecting hormone levels

This formula also includes 100 mg of caffeine, which is about the same amount you would consume in the average cup of coffee. Caffeine can boost your mental energy, focus, and attention and reduce your perception of fatigue. All of these benefits can help you maintain a stable mood.

Directions

To optimize your cognitive enhancement benefits from Hunter Focus, you’ll need to take six capsules as your daily dose. The company doesn’t specify whether to take them at the same time or spread them out throughout the day.

If six capsules seem overwhelming to you, you can always start with a lower dose and increase it over time.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Diverse formula that tackles cognitive performance from several angles
  • Formulated specifically for adults 30+
  • Positive reviews and testimonials overall

Cons:

  • Six-capsule daily serving
  • Most expensive alternative to Adderall on the list

Hunter Focus is one of the best Adderall alternatives for adults looking to boost brain health and decrease ADHD symptoms. While it is pricey at $90 a month, the cost may be worth it for the high-quality, reputable formula.

Click Here for the Lowest Prices on Hunter Focus

6. Mind Vitality – Best Nootropic for Students

Mind Vitality Focus is an advanced nootropic supplement crafted to boost mental performance and clarity. It targets key cognitive areas including memory enhancement, sharpened focus, increased concentration, and sustained mental energy. Utilizing a blend of natural components, Mind Vitality is dedicated to improving brain health and delivering enduring cognitive improvements.

Benefits

Mind Vitality positions itself as a pivotal tool for elevating everyday productivity, suggesting it can sustain mental alertness while preventing fatigue. It offers a promise to help users conquer the habitual delay of procrastination, boost attention, and fend off the common late-day energy crash. In doing so, Mind Vitality aims to significantly amplify your daily work efficiency, but whether it meets these expectations in practice is another matter.

  • Enhance daily productivity without the risk of burnout
  • Sustain your cognitive energy throughout the entire day
  • Overcome procrastination and embrace consistent action
  • Sharpen your focus and improve concentration levels
  • Eradicate the mid-afternoon energy dip
  • Optimize your daily work performance

How It Works

Mind Vitality harnesses a comprehensive approach to bolster cognitive performance and sustain brain health. The efficacy of Mind Vitality is rooted in its ingredient matrix, which enhances neural communication, boosts neurotransmitter synthesis, and sharpens mental faculties like memory, focus, and attention.

The supplement bolsters neurotransmitter activity, facilitating the production and efficiency of essential cognitive neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, serotonin, and dopamine, which are vital for mood regulation, memory, and mental agility.

In addition to cognitive enhancement and neurotransmitter support, Mind Vitality is infused with antioxidants and protective compounds that defend brain cells against oxidative stress and deterioration, contributing to the longevity of cognitive health.

Key components in Mind Vitality include:

  • Bacopa Monnieri: Enhances memory functions and provides neuroprotection.
  • Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Encourages brain cell growth and boosts cognition.
  • Ginkgo Biloba: Increases cerebral blood flow and sharpens focus.
  • Rhodiola Rosea: Offers fatigue relief and improves mental performance in stressful situations.
  • Phosphatidylserine: Vital for memory, concentration, and overall cognitive capacity.
  • Mind Vitality’s formula is designed to amplify mental clarity, elevate focus and concentration, alleviate stress, and enhance mood. Each ingredient is selected for its proven effect in supporting neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections—thus promoting learning, memory retention, and peak mental performance.

Directions

For optimal results from Mind Vitality, follow the suggested usage instructions provided on the package. Typically, this involves taking two capsules daily with food. Before incorporating this supplement into your routine, it’s wise to seek advice from a healthcare provider.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • May improve memory, focus, and clarity, which can result in better performance in work or study-related tasks
  • Includes ingredients known to help reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve overall well-being
  • Help in elevating mood and improving emotional health
  • Formulated with natural substances that are less likely to cause harsh side effects compared to synthetic drugs
  • Antioxidants and other compounds can protect against oxidative stress and aid in the long-term health of brain cells

Cons:

  • Despite being natural, some ingredients can cause side effects or interact with other medications
  • High-quality cognitive supplements can be expensive, especially if used over an extended period

7. Mind Lab Pro: Best Adderall Alternative Without Caffeine

Mind Lab Pro is one of the best OTC Adderall alternatives that doesn’t contain caffeine. Many Adderall alternatives mimic stimulant medications by including high doses of caffeine in their formulas. With Mind Lab Pro, you can receive mental energy while boosting brain health without the jittery side effects that come with excess caffeine intake.

Benefits

The Mind Lab Pro creators boast that this supplement can help you “unlock your ‘A’ game,” providing the following benefits:

  • Help you process information faster

  • Improve your mental focus and productivity

  • Boost your recall and memory of names and faces

  • Help you think more clearly, even while under stress

How It Works

Mind Lab Pro produces these benefits through a research-backed formula of 11 nootropic ingredients. The creators also carefully examined the doses of each ingredient to maximize benefits.

This natural Adderall substitute contains the following ingredients:

  • NutriGenesis (vitamin B6, B9, and B12)

  • Citicoline

  • Organic lion’s mane mushroom extract

  • Bacopa monnieri

  • N-acetyl L-tyrosine

  • Phosphatidylserine

  • L-theanine

  • Maritime pine bark extract

  • Rhodiola rosea

One of the more potent ingredients in the formula is lion’s mane mushroom extract. This ingredient may stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF), which regulates the growth, maintenance, and development of certain sensory neurons in the brain. Increasing NGF could promote better memory, mood balance, brain plasticity, and overall brain health.

 

NutriGenesis is a proprietary blend of essential B vitamins and other mineral supplements. In the Mind Lab Pro formula, NutriGenesis may help promote a better brain chemical balance and enhance brain blood flow, supporting mental performance.

 

Maritime pine bark extract is a unique addition compared to other natural OTC Adderall alternatives on the list. This extract contains procyanidins, which boast antioxidant properties and may improve blood flow to the brain. Doctors sometimes recommend pine bark extract to prevent memory decline.

 

Mind Lab Pro also contains N-acetyl L-tyrosine, an enhanced version of the amino acid L-tyrosine. This amino acid may provide support to stress-depleted neurotransmitters, improving their performance. In turn, you may have more mental clarity and improved focus.

Phosphatidylserine, also known as PS, is a natural nootropic that may support long-term memory. This nootropic could support neuroplasticity in brain cell membranes, improving cognitive performance. Mind Lab Pro contains a proprietary blend of PS called Sharp-PS® Green, which derives PS from sunflower lecithin.

Directions

The Mind Lab Pro creators say you can take between two and four capsules per day. Start by taking two capsules in the morning before eating your breakfast. You can swallow your capsules with water, coffee, or any other beverage.

If your cognitive performance still seems a little slow around lunchtime, you can take one or two more capsules for an extra boost. Just don’t exceed four capsules in 24 hours.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Caffeine-free nootropic formula

  • Thoroughly researched formula of natural supplements

  • Flexible dosage to suit your needs

  • Plant-based, vegan-friendly gel capsules

Cons:

  • Contains a few proprietary formulas

We recommend Mind Lab Pro as one of the best Adderall alternatives for people looking to replace non-stimulant ADHD medications.

Click Here for the Best Prices on Mind Lab Pro

What Is Adderall, and How Does It Work?

Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Doctors often prescribe Adderall to people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to improve their focus and reduce impulsivity.

Dopamine

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that contributes to pleasure, motivation, and learning. When dopamine is released in the brain, you feel a sense of temporary pleasure.

People with ADHD often have low levels of dopamine, leading them to seek out stimulation. This is one of the major reasons people with ADHD have trouble focusing; they quickly lose interest in tasks because their dopamine levels are low.

However, Adderall and other stimulant medications can directly increase dopamine levels in the brain. For people with ADHD, this stimulant medication can restore dopamine levels to a normal state.

In people who already have sufficient dopamine, Adderall can produce a sense of euphoria, increased alertness, and better resilience. Adderall can easily be misused for these effects.

Norepinephrine

Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that increases alertness, arousal, and attention. People with ADHD also sometimes have norepinephrine deficiencies, specifically because their norepinephrine transporters malfunction.

Like dopamine, Adderall also directly increases norepinephrine in people with ADHD. The main way it does this is by inhibiting monoamine oxidase, the enzyme that breaks down monoamines in your body. Excess monoamines lead monoamine oxidase to break down more neurotransmitters and recycle them for later use.

Because Adderall inhibits this process, it prevents the breakdown of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine.

Why Adderall May Not Be the Right Choice for You

There are a few reasons Adderall may not be the right choice for you or others with ADHD symptoms. These are the most prevalent reasons people look for the best Adderall alternatives rather than relying on these prescription medications.

Addiction

One of the main reasons Adderall may not be the right choice for you is that it is highly addictive. If you read the previous section, you may understand why: It increases your dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which can be an addictive feeling.

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S., which means the Drug Enforcement Agency has deemed that it has a high risk of addiction or potential for abuse. As a result, many people hesitate to begin taking Adderall and other prescription stimulants.

In contrast, natural Adderall alternatives aren’t addictive, as they contain only natural ingredients and plant extracts.

Side Effects

Side effects are another compelling reason Adderall may not be right for you. Like any prescription medication, Adderall comes with potential side effects. It is a good idea to weigh these side effects against the potential benefits of taking the medication before committing yourself to a regimen.

The most common side effects of Adderall include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Mood swings
  • Dry mouth
  • Stomachache
  • Fever
  • Headache

Often, these side effects resolve as your body becomes used to the medication. If they don’t, you may want to switch to one of the best Adderall alternatives we’ve reviewed above instead.

Stimulant

Adderall may not be the right choice if you are sensitive to stimulants or want to avoid their potential risks. Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant, and as a result, it can produce unwanted effects like:

  • Restlessness
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Aggression
  • Increased heart rate
  • Paranoia
  • Psychosis
  • Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and seizures

These symptoms are more common among users who don’t have ADHD. People who do have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can also experience the negative effects of stimulant medications.

What Are Nootropics?

Nootropics are a class of compounds that improve cognitive function. They can include natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic molecules and can cover prescription and non-prescription medications. For the purposes of our article, nootropics are non-prescription, over-the-counter supplements.

Nootropic supplements support brain function in several different ways:

  • Enhance working and long-term memory
  • Improve focus and thinking
  • Boost mental alertness
  • Reduce cognitive decline
  • Support brain cells

People often take nootropics as natural alternatives to Adderall. They contain natural ingredients that can increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels and support other cognitive processes.

Do Nootropics Work?

Natural nootropics do work — to an extent. Researchers have studied many of the most common natural supplements in these products and found that they do provide mild benefits for cognitive enhancement, focus, attention, memory, and mood.

People with mild ADHD symptoms may benefit more from these natural alternatives to Adderall than from harsh stimulant medications. However, they aren’t a direct substitute for ADHD medication.

For those who need help managing ADHD symptoms effectively, taking a stimulant medication or selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor may be necessary.

Who Should Consider Natural Adderall Alternatives?

Natural Adderall alternatives aren’t just for people who have received an ADHD diagnosis. The supplements on our list offer broad benefits for cognitive function and are suitable for a wide range of people.

You may want to consider taking the best Adderall alternatives if you fit any of the following criteria.

College Students

College students may want to consider natural Adderall alternatives to improve their productivity, focus, and energy while studying. If you’re a college student, you probably understand the feeling of wanting to get an assignment done or study for a test, only to experience brain fog, lack of attention, or unproductivity.

The natural alternatives to Adderall on our list each promote benefits to support cognitive function while studying and completing assignments. But Feedamind may be the best Adderall alternative for students, as it contains ingredients to prevent eye fatigue and boost mental clarity.

Seniors

Seniors who are looking to prevent cognitive decline may also want to consider taking natural Adderall alternatives. Cognitive decline is the broad term for worsening confusion and memory loss that happens with age.

Taking steps to maintain your cognitive performance now could help slow cognitive decline. With the supplements on our list, you can target specific neurotransmitters, hormones, and naturally occurring chemicals in your brain and boost their performance and production.

Athletes

Athletes should also consider taking natural Adderall alternatives for the energizing benefits of these supplements.

Many of the Adderall alternatives above contain caffeine or other natural energizers. They may also improve your mood and motivation, helping you stay focused on your athletic goals.

However, there’s another major reason athletes may want to consider natural alternatives to Adderall. Many sports organizations ban the use of Adderall because it is a performance-enhancing drug. Even those that do allow prescription stimulants only permit them for athletes with valid prescriptions.

With the natural alternatives to Adderall above, you don’t need to worry about failing a drug test or threatening your athletic opportunities.

Choosing the Right Natural Adderall Alternative for ADHD

When choosing the right natural Adderall alternative for ADHD, consider all of the following elements that make up these dietary supplements:

  • Formula: What ingredients make up the supplement’s formula? Are those ingredients research-backed and effective? Does the formula include high enough doses of each ingredient to provide the stated benefits?
  • Dosage: How many capsules will you need to take each day to receive the recommended dose? Will you have trouble taking this dosage every day at the same time?
  • Cost: How much will the natural OTC Adderall supplement cost you on a monthly basis? Can you receive a discount if you purchase the supplement in bulk? Does it come with a money-back guarantee?
  • Benefits: Does the natural Adderall substitute check off all the benefits you’re looking for? Does its formula support those benefits?
  • Reviews: Does the Adderall alternative have mainly positive reviews? All of the best Adderall alternatives on our list have overwhelmingly positive reviews

Benefits of Taking the Best Natural Over-the-Counter Adderall

Taking one of the best natural over-the-counter Adderall alternatives could produce a wide range of benefits, including the following:

  • Enhance cognitive function: These natural alternatives to Adderall can improve your cognitive performance and brain health overall, supporting processes like thinking, recall, impulse control, and more.
  • Improve memory recall: A natural alternative to Adderall can help you recall names, words, and facts more readily.
  • Slow cognitive decline: For those past middle age, natural OTC Adderall substitutes may help slow mental decline, preventing or delaying symptoms like memory loss, brain fog, and mental fatigue.
  • Improve mood: A natural alternative to Adderall may also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and improve your mood overall.

How Much Do Adderall Substitutes Cost?

Here is how much the best Adderall alternatives on our list cost:

  • BrainPill: $69.95 for one month, $130.95 for two months, and $354 for six months
  • Vyvamind: $74.99 for one month, $139.98 for two months, and $390 for six months
  • Nooceptin: $69 for one month, $138 for two months, and $414 for six months
  • NooCube: $64.99 for one month, $129.98 for two months, $259.96 for six months
  • Mind Vitality: $69.99 for one month, $139.99 for two months, $259.96 for six months
  • Hunter Focus: $90 for one month, $180 for two months, and $209.99 for five months
  • Mind Lab Pro: $62.10 for one month, $124.20 for two months, and $310.50 for six months

Natural OTC Supplements for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Over-the-counter supplements for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often contain overlapping ingredients. Below are the most common dietary supplements you will see in natural OTC Adderall alternatives:

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a natural supplement that may assist with managing ADHD symptoms. It is rich in antioxidants and supports several areas of brain health, including thinking, learning, and memory. One study found that Ginkgo bilobaextract improves memory ability in mice.

Inositol

Inositol is another dietary supplement that may alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is a form of sugar alcohol that is abundant in the brain. Taking it as a supplement could help balance your serotonin and dopamine levels, acting as a natural Adderall alternative.

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine is an amino acid that is also common in natural supplements for ADHD. It may improve memory and cognitive performance under psychological stress. It may also help replenish catecholamine levels in the brain, which decrease when in stressful situations.

Citicoline

Citicoline is a natural supplement that may also help with managing ADHD symptoms. It’s a naturally occurring brain chemical that, when supplemented, promotes benefits for:

  • Attention
  • Mental energy and alertness
  • Memory

A 2021 study found that citicoline improves overall memory performance, especially episodic memory, which is a type of long-term memory for everyday events and experiences.

B Vitamins

Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 are also natural supplements that can help you manage ADHD symptoms. This class of vitamins may help slow mental decline, supporting attention, working memory, and brain processing speeds.

Mineral Supplements

Several mineral supplements can also act as natural alternatives to ADHD medication. The most common include:

  • Calcium
  • Selenium
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Vitamin C
  • Folate

These dietary supplements are important to brain health and cognition.

Methionine

Methionine, when consumed in moderation, may also impact brain health and act as a natural OTC supplement for ADHD symptom management. While too much methionine can impair cognitive function, ingesting a controlled amount of animal methionine rather than plant methionine may promote cognitive enhancement.

Pine Bark Extract

Pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) is another supplement common in the best Adderall alternatives. This plant extract may improve cognitive performance by supporting attention and improving specific professional skills, such as spatial working memory, executive functions, and pattern recognition memory.

Caffeine

Caffeine is one of the dietary supplements that can mimic the effects of stimulant medications for ADHD. In balanced doses, it may improve mental clarity, energy, attention, and focus. It stimulates the central nervous system, which may help some individuals manage ADHD symptoms.

GABA

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that produces a calming effect on the brain. It is commonly found in dietary supplements for ADHD. This supplement may improve your mood, relieve anxiety, enhance sleep quality, and help with managing ADHD symptoms.

L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid that acts as a natural alternative to ADHD medication. This compound may have neuroprotective effects, supporting your brain cells and boosting cognitive performance overall. It may specifically improve your attention and reaction times, helping with effectively managing ADHD symptoms.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola is an OTC plant extract that may help with managing ADHD symptoms. Mental Health America has reported that this dietary supplement can treat forgetfulness, irritability, decreased memory, concentration deficiencies, and susceptibility to stress.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a dietary supplement that may help with managing ADHD symptoms and other cognitive disorders. This extract may boost mood, provide relief from depression symptoms, and aid the acquisition and consolidation of memories.

Ginseng

Ginseng is another dietary supplement that may promote natural ADHD treatment. People have used this ingredient as an herbal remedy for centuries, and it has a reputation for increasing energy and enhancing brain function. It may also help prevent age-related mental decline and memory loss.

Other Nutrients That May Help ADHD

If you want to treat ADHD naturally, try incorporating foods into your diet that contain these nutrients:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish, nuts and seeds, plant oils
  • Iron: Spinach, dark chocolate, tofu, beef, pumpkin seeds
  • Magnesium: Cashews, avocados, almonds, leafy greens
  • Melatonin: Milk, pistachios, almonds, rice, oats, goji berries
  • Probiotics: Yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, tempeh
  • Zinc: Fish, whole grains, eggs, nuts

Alternative Treatments for ADHD

You can also try incorporating certain activities into your day to promote natural ADHD treatment. The following activities may help with treating ADHD alongside the best Adderall alternatives above:

  • Acupuncture
  • Yoga
  • Meditation
  • Exercise
  • Exposure to the outdoors
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Biofeedback

Frequently Asked Questions

Are natural Adderall substitutes effective for treating ADHD?

Natural Adderall alternative medications are effective for treating ADHD to an extent. These supplements can enhance mental performance, impulse control, focus, and mental clarity, but their results are typically mild. As a result, they won’t be an effective ADHD treatment for everyone.

Prescription ADHD medications contain stimulant drugs that directly increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, targeting the symptoms that come with ADHD. For individuals who have trouble functioning with their ADHD symptoms, these stimulant medications are often necessary.

However, for those who require non-stimulant ADHD medications, only have mild symptoms of ADHD, or prefer a natural alternative, the supplements on our list may be suitable.

If you currently take prescription medication for ADHD, talk to your doctor about whether an alternative to Adderall may be right for you.

What ingredients should I look for in an Adderall supplement?

When choosing a natural Adderall supplement, look for the following nootropics or “smart drugs” that may help treat ADHD:

  • Citicoline
  • Lion’s mane extract
  • Ginkgo biloba
  • Rhodiola rosea
  • Caffeine
  • B vitamins
  • Ginseng
  • Pine tree bark extract

Can an OTC Adderall alternative be taken along with other supplements?

You can typically take one of the best Adderall alternatives alongside other supplements as long as they do not contain overlapping ingredients. You should avoid overdosing on any of the natural ingredients in these supplements, as doing so can cause uncomfortable side effects like nausea, stomach upset, and vomiting.

If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor before taking multiple supplements at once.

Does ashwagandha help with ADHD symptoms?

Ashwagandha is a natural plant extract that may help alleviate ADHD symptoms. This extract boats benefits like:

  • Enhanced focus and mental stamina
  • Reduced irritability
  • Decreased stress and anxiety
  • Increased energy and mental clarity

This plant extract may promote overall brain health and improve cognitive function, providing relief from ADHD symptoms for some people.

Can Adderall be bought over the counter?

No, Adderall is not available over the counter. It is a prescription medication that contains stimulant drugs. You can only purchase Adderall and other ADHD medications with a doctor’s prescription.

However, the natural alternatives to stimulant medications on the list above are available over the counter. You can purchase these supplements online without a prescription, then ship them directly to your house.

Keep in mind that there is a black market for Adderall, so you may stumble upon this stimulant medication available for sale online. But you should never take Adderall or any other stimulant medications without a prescription.

Which nootropic is like Adderall?

Several nootropics or “smart drugs” produce similar benefits to Adderall. One of the most similar is the amino acid L-tyrosine, as it directly increases your dopamine levels like Adderall and other stimulant medications.

In terms of nootropic supplements like the ones on our list, Vyvamind may be the most similar to Adderall. This supplement targets several of the most common ADHD symptoms and is a suitable alternative to ADHD treatment for many people.

Are nootropics prescription medications?

Nootropics can include prescription medications, semi-synthetic molecules, and natural supplements. Any type of compound that produces cognitive enhancement may be considered a nootropic.

All of the nootropics above are natural supplements, not prescriptions. When people talk about “prescription nootropics,” they’re often referring to ADHD medications and other treatments that provide mentally stimulating effects. However, when you hear the term “nootropics” by itself, you can assume it refers to natural alternative versions of stimulant medications.

Are nootropics addictive?

Natural nootropics are generally not addictive, but prescription nootropics can be. Knowing this could help you decide which option better suits your lifestyle and temperament. If your situation is not severe enough to warrant prescription medication, exploring one of the natural alternatives above may be right for you.

One of the reasons people look for the best Adderall alternatives to treat ADHD is because Adderall is highly addictive. Adderall users get accustomed to the stimulating effects it produces and sometimes have a hard time weaning off of the medication. This prescription medication may be even more addictive for people who don’t have ADHD and misuse it.

Summary of the Top Natural Adderall Alternatives

Disclaimer:

Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely substitutes for sound medical or financial advice from a licensed healthcare provider or certified financial advisor. Make sure to consult with a professional physician or financial consultant before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed as the statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA, or Health Canada approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and do not provide any kind of get-rich money scheme. Reviewer is not responsible for pricing inaccuracies. Check product sales page for final prices.

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