Last updated: November 27th, 2019
While there’s nothing wrong with using an ADHD medication that works well for your mind and body, it’s good to keep in mind that there are some great alternatives available.
In fact, I don’t use ADHD medication to treat my ADHD symptoms all that much anymore.
Instead, I take advantage of these 10 best ADHD medication alternatives that actually work in 2020.
Why use ADHD medication alternatives?
There are a number of reasons why you might want to try alternatives to ADHD medication. For example…
- Your health insurance might not cover the full costs of your ADHD medication
- You’re worried about the long-term side effects of ADHD medication
- You know that you have an addictive personality
- You’d simply prefer to take a holistic approach to treating ADHD symptoms
Regardless of your exact reasoning for wanting to take the natural route to treating ADHD, you’re in good company.
What are the best ADHD medication alternatives to take?
I fully support anyone who wants to try alternatives to ADHD medication. At this stage of my life, I take a mostly holistic approach to treating ADHD symptoms.
Over the course of my short lifetime, I’ve tried hundreds of cognitive enhancers, ADHD herbs and spices, nootropics, supplements, drinks, and other goodies.
So, when it comes to ADHD supplements and remedies, I have a pretty good idea of what works and what doesn’t.
Out of everything that I’ve tried, these are the top 10 ADHD medication alternatives that I personally use and recommend…
1. NAC Sustain
This supplement is an ideal ADHD medication alternative.
NAC Sustain (BulkSupplements) contains a ‘mega dose’ of the amino acid L-cysteine. This amino acid is considered to be an precursor to glutathione. So, to put it simply, NAC Sustain is a mega antioxidant that can help to rid your body of free radicals. It cleanses your liver, helps you breathe better, and has a surprising effect on your level of anxiety.
Surprisingly, there seems to be an interesting connection between your liver and how your brain functions, which is still being researched to this day. The brain-liver relationship isn’t totally understood yet. But, the connection is extremely interesting.
Could it be that NAC Sustain cleanses your liver, which helps your brain feel more calm and relaxed, and ultimately helps to fight ADHD symptoms?
Speaking from personal experience, I don’t think that’s so far-fetched. NAG Sustain has had a seriously positive impact on my level of anxiety, ADHD, and overall well-being.
Try taking NAC Sustain a few times per week at first. Don’t go overboard with the stuff, because a little bit goes a long way.
2. True Calm
True Focus (Amazon) (formerly True Calm) is an awesome supplement that I usually take a few hours before going to bed, watching a movie, or doing anything that involves needing to relax.
The supplement contains a blend of GABA, vitamin b-6, taurine, valerian, and a few other amino acids. True Calm essentially plays on your neurotransmitters, and helps you mentally unwind after a stressful day.
It’s a perfect treat after a long day of work, or for using right before you go to bed.
3. Complete B-Complex Vitamin
While there are plenty of b-complex multivitamin supplements on the market, I like this B-Complex supplement from Rainbow Light (Amazon) because it’s cost-effective, made from real food-based ingredients, and is a high-quality supplement in general.
As you can probably already tell, the ADHD brain is a little bit wacky at times. So, I know from first-hand experience that using b vitamins is basically a necessity.
Taking a good b complex supplement will give you energy, stabilize your mood, and help you experience greater mental clarity. Plus, when you pair a b complex multivitamin with a lot of coffee or green tea, it feels almost as good as taking an ADHD medication.
4. Raw Turmeric Powder
Organic raw turmeric powder (Amazon) is an anti-inflammatory spice that’s been used in India and other parts of Asia for thousands of years.
This organic superfood is used to fight against disease, help the liver heal, and lower oxidative stress in the brain. It’s also used to treat many other ailments.
Most importantly for people with ADHD, using turmeric may reduce inflammation in the brain, which is thought to relieve some ADHD symptoms.
I personally take turmeric everyday for its general health benefits. And, I love that it potentially helps to treat ADHD symptoms as well.
5. Organic Maca Root Powder
While Organic Maca Root Powder (Amazon) is by far the worst-tasting supplement on this list, it’s also one of the most effective natural powders in the world for helping people with ADHD.
I usually take organic maca root powder before working out, taking care of work, or do anything else that requires a sudden boost of energy. Organic maca powder actually gives me an intense pump that’s even better than most energy drinks.
People with ADHD can also benefit from taking maca root powder to study, concentrate during the day, or take care of boring tasks around the house. This supplement makes life more interesting.
6. Rainbow Light Probiotic
If you already eat a lot of yogurt and vegetables, then you might not need to take a probiotic supplement.
But, if you have trouble remembering to take good care of your gut, then using a probiotic like Rainbow Light ProbioActive (Amazon) could absolutely change your life for the best.
People are usually shocked to find out that their mood is influenced by gut health.
Yep, it’s true.
By using a probiotic to take care of your gut, you’ll think more clearly, feel better, and enjoy a more positive outlook on life. This is perfect for people with ADHD.
7. Vitamin D
When I was first prescribed Vyvanse, I had my blood work done at the same time. When the results came in, my doctor told me that I was low in vitamin D.
And, when I found out that I was low in vitamin D, I started to take a good vitamin D supplement, and I felt better almost immediately.
I recommend getting your blood work done if you haven’t done so in a while. Because, if you’re like most people, then odds are strong that you’re probably experiencing a vitamin D deficiency as well.
By the way, I use Rainbow Light Sunny Gummies Vitamin D (Amazon) because this supplement tastes good, and comes in a low ‘strength’ form of vitamin d3 (1000 IUs). I like this low-strength form of vitamin d3, because taking too much vitamin D can actually make you feel worse.
If you prefer taking ‘stronger’ vitamin D, there are similar vitamin d3 supplements from Pure Encapsulations (Amazon) that work well too.
8. Liquid Fish Oil
Fish oil is a classic ingredient for managing ADHD that often goes overlooked.
The reality is that if you don’t live on the coast, or if you don’t eat a lot of seafood in general, then you probably aren’t getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.
Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent for helping you think more clearly, improving your mood, and even fighting against diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Yes, there are some massive mental benefits that come with taking fish oil. So, it’s pretty easy to understand why taking fish oil can be great for ADHD symptoms.
I prefer Nordic Naturals Liquid Fish Oil (Amazon) because it comes from quality fish, tastes good, and doesn’t require you to choke down yet another capsule.
9. Magnesium Citramate
Magnesium is a must for people with ADHD. Taking magnesium is known to help people with ADHD enhance brain function, improve the cardiovascular system, and sleep better at night.
The truth is that most people with ADHD take magnesium to feel more mentally calm, which can make it easier to function in social situations, and sleep well at night.
However, the type of magnesium that you take is important too…
This is why I recommend taking Magnesium Citramate (Amazon) or magnesium citrate. These types of magnesium are easily absorbed in the body, and give you results that you can feel almost instantly.
10. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is a type of tea that’s been used throughout South America for centuries.
It’s one of my favorite teas because it’s calming, stimulating and tasty all at the same time (like an all-in-one solution for ADHD).
I like to use Guyaki Brand Yerba Mate Tea Bags (Amazon) for convenience sake.
But, if you like to brew loose leaf tea (in the traditional style), there’s also a Loose Leaf Yerba Mate (Amazon) option available for you too.
ADHD Medication Alternatives Conclusion
These are the 10 natural products that I now live by, ever since I began limiting my intake of ADHD medication.
Like I mentioned before, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking high-quality medication for ADHD.
In fact, I still occasionally take ADHD medication for busy workdays, and for taking care of difficult tasks where I need superhuman focus.
But most of the time, I rely on the natural supplements, herbs, spices and other ingredients listed in this article to go about my daily life.
And I’m perfectly happy and healthy to do so…
But, best of all, I truly believe that you can live a more fun, interesting and fulfilling lifestyle when you supplement with these medication alternatives too.
Because, if you really want to, you can effectively treat ADHD naturally. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Have you heard of Protandim? It increases the body’s production of glutathione 300%.
I just looked it up, and it doesn’t look like a good product. I’m not a fan of MLM’s. Way overpriced.
You can actually check out my opinion on MLM’s in this article about essential oils:
http://adhdboss.com/essential-oils-adhd/
Do you take all of these supplements every day?
Other than the TrueCalm, do you take everything in the morning? Throughout the day? When you feel the need?
Thanks!
Hi James. For the most part, I take these supplements every day. But I only use Maca powder occasionally, because it tastes pretty bad (even though it’s super energizing).
I take them any time during the day really. Morning is ideal, but the afternoon works perfectly fine too.
The only exception is magnesium citramate, which I take just before going to bed (it’s very calming).
Thanks for your comment, and let me know if you have any other questions!
I take the Omega 3’s, I sometimes drink yerba mate (maybe no need for maca if you yerba mate), B6 and B3 (B3 is often recommended for ADHD, but you should start at low doses for your body to get used to it), I also take glutathione, B complex. The liver cleanse one is a good one. I haven’t taken it, but in Chinese medicine they mention a problem with the liver when it comes to ADHD. Also, some people with ADHD have problems with their bowels. I take glutamine and MSM to strengthen my bowels. Oh yes, I also take a lot of vitamin E as some studies have shown that it combined with Omega has helped many people.
Amazing comment Basil thank you for the tips. I agree 100%.
HI Stef, Thank you so much of your honesty and information. My 10 year old seems to have it. We have been given a prescription which I am wary of. I really like the supplements you have listed. So far we have a B and the same Thorne Cal Mag but in powder form. I will look into the others today.
Questions-
1- How do you take the tumeric?
2- Do you follow a Gluten or dairy/egg free diet?
3- Do you stay away from refined sugar and simple carbs (If you do eat wheat)?
4- When you were 10 and your mom could do something- what do you think she should do? 🙂
My son is bright, intelligent and clever. But forgets ‘things to do’ , has trouble paying attention to direction in class, unfocused at home and school, but laser focused when he is into something. Like nothing else matters…..Should we take him jogging every morning for instance?
Sorry for so many questions. I am just beginning the journey on this subject. I think I have it too, bc once I begin researching something- watch out. All stones will be turned. Thank you so much for your time. Looking forward to hearing back. PS Your site is the first site, I am interested in on this subject. 🙂
Hi Pauline.
You’re very welcome for the information. Thank you for reading.
1. I sprinkle turmeric over eggs and make sure to add black pepper as well. Black pepper increases turmeric’s bioavailability. It doesn’t taste very good, but it’s extremely healthy.
2. Yes, I avoid gluten and dairy as much as possible. I know eggs are controversial, but my body responds perfectly well to eggs, so I eat them often.
3. I absolutely avoid refined sugar and all forms of gluten. My preferred diet is Intermittent Fasting / Paleo (I’m always tweaking my diet).
4. I love your commitment to helping your son. Enroll your son in competitive sports, help him explore his interests, and allow him to freely pursue whatever he’s interested in. Whether that’s music, art, dance, sports, programming or whatever.
Yes, you should absolutely take him jogging, or help him get involved in a sport ASAP. Tennis is a really good sport to get involved in when you’re young. I also find that ADHD works well with team sports like hockey or soccer.
Thanks again for reading Pauline, and good luck with you and your son’s journey!
Do you think It would hurt if I take the rainbow light b- complex supplement in the morning then take my vyvanse later in the day ?? Cause I wake up at 7am but I don’t like to take the vyvanse until 12pm . I would like to know your opinion
Thank you
Hi Sanquan. Thank you for your comment!
I don’t think it’s a good idea to take your b-complex supplement in the morning, because it could potentially flush some of your Vyvanse out of your system.
Of course, you’re definitely welcome to try it for yourself and report back how it works for you.
When I was taking Vyvanse, I would always take my multivitamin in the evening to help with the “Vyvanse crash” – when the medication was already wearing off. This seemed to be the best time for my schedule.
Would you be able to take your b-complex supplement around 7 p.m. – or is that too late for you?
Nope 7am is not to late at all . Thank you so much for the reply
You’re welcome!
I’d actually do the opposite. B-Vitamins will not flush Vyvanse out of your system. The only thing that does that is things high in Vitamin C for example and other things that make your stomach more acidic which will in turn make the Vyvanse not absorb as much.
Taking the B-Vitamins will help with the side effect of Vyvanse (which in high doses causes Neurotoxicity).
Substances that have been shown to lessen / halt this are CoQ-10, baicalein and melatonin.
Hey Oz,
Thanks for your comment!
The Rainbow Light B-Complex supplement that Sanquan is referring to actually contains vitamin C, which is why I recommended against taking that particular B-complex product with Vyvanse.
Otherwise, great tips on the CoQ10 and baicalein.
Thanks for the top 10 ADHD list. I think my son has tried half of the prescription ADHD meds on the market (Quillivant, Daytrana, Focalin XR, Vyvanse, Intuniv, Adderall…). Some work for a short while, then we up the dose. And up, and up, then change meds. Partially due to this, I also like to periodically try natural meds on the weekend to see what works. Besides being hyper, he has a real problem with impulse control. And, so far, I have yet to find a natural remedy for that. I feel like I have used Google half of his life trying to find something that works. I just discovered info on NAC today, and found it interesting that it is on the top of your list. If you have a suggestion for impulse control, I would love to hear it. Thanks so much!!
Hey Suzanne. Thank you for your comment.
Impulse control is a really tough one, because it’s basically the cornerstone of ADHD.
Honestly, ADHD medication works for impulse control. So I can’t really knock medication in that regard.
But like you said, it’s nice to periodically take a break, and try natural remedies.
In my experience, CBD oil has been one of the more promising solutions for easing your mind, and helping you focus on whatever needs to be taken care of.
I can’t say that it works specifically for impulse control, because I’m not sure if that’s true. But it does help you feel more calm and focused temporarily.
I love NAC too, because it’s amazing for anxiety (in my experience). But again, I can’t comment on how it affects impulses, because I’m not sure if it actually helps with that or not.
Either way, I hope you find what you’re looking for. Remember to ask your doctor if you have any questions about these supplements.
Thanks again Suzanne.
Thank you! I just ordered cbd oil, and I plan on trying NAC on him as well. I’ll let you know how it works out. Thank you for all the great information on this website.
Hey Suzanne. That’s awesome to hear that you’re trying some CBD oil and NAC. I wish you the best. You’re very welcome for the information. I’m glad that it’s helped you out.
what CBD oil did you try?
Hey there,
I actually stumbled onto your page tonight after praying to find natural remedies. I’m 41, mother to a 12 year old boy with ADHD. I also have it but did not get a diagnosis until 2016. Vyvanse was a game changer. It’s like I finally became me again. Unfortunately I tend to have an addictive personality and because I was finally able to focus and get things done, I would take more Adderall IR, especially before the Vyvanse crash.
I’ve been off meds for a year because at 41, I gave birth to my baby girl. I have spoken to a pharmacist, a lactation consultant and with infant risk in regards to starting my meds again bc I breastfeed.
I was told there are no major risks not to exceed 40 mg.
I would love to not need medication if it’s an option. I guess I have a lot of research to do to see if any of your suggestions have contraindications with breastfeeding. The way I look at it, natural supplements couldn’t be any more harmful than stimulants in breast milk, even at a very minimal amount.
Sorry for the long post and thanks.
Thank you very much for your comment Rachell.
Even though natural supplements might appear harmless, this isn’t always the case.
I really encourage you to do extensive research, and most importantly, please talk to your doctors before using any of these supplements. Especially while you’re breastfeeding.
Don’t get me wrong. I want you to experience amazing results. But at the same time, you can’t really take any chances when you’re dealing with infant risk, like you said.
Thanks again for your comment and I wish you the best Rachell.
Thank you for this list and information! I’ve been using maca capsules for about a year as prescribed by my phyciatrist for an enhancement for my depression meds. It really gave my mood, energy levels and libido a boost as well as overall well being. Because it improves hormone balance and menopausal symptoms I was cautious about taking it due to my history of estrogen sensitive breast cancer. Up until recently I could find no advisement to avoid maca for breast cancer patients/survivors. Last week in the same day I found two such recommendations to not use it with that history. Very sad for me.
I’m very happy to learn of some of these supplement to try, and especially good recommendations for my husband who no longer takes medication for his ADD but could use some help with some symptoms.
Maca is amazing Marilyn and I’m glad to hear that it’s working so well for you. Thank you very much for leaving your thoughts on here.
Update: since taking Vynase have now moved to Strattera and already doing better. Which of these remedies would you recommend I take with it. Unfortunately, doctor was not very helpful on this question. Do you have any thoughts?
Hello, just started taking Strattera and all ready seeing better effects. Looking to add a few natural remedies to my diet.
Would the following be okay:
1. Fish oil
2. Tumeric
3. Rainbow light antibiotic
I’m generally on the inattentive side and suffer from overthinking and nervousness. What are your thoughts are there any other remedies I should consider too?
100% Thomas. That’s a great supplement stack. Great stuff.
Hello Stephen,
I suffer from add with anxiety/over worrying. Just started taking strattera any natural supplements you recommend I take from your experience.
Tom
Hi, the herbs Rhodiola Rosea, brahmi, Ashwagandha. will be able to work with me add? thank you for your article
Hi there, you will have to experiment for yourself and figure out what works best for your lifestyle! Every one is different. This is a cliche answer I know but the truth is you have to experiment a bit like a scientist. Hope this helps.
Maca root in warm milk is actually quite nice … a comforting drink. I use a milk steamer, which helps blend the powder into the liquid. There are different coloured maca roots with somewhat different properties, look out for the perfect blend of black, red and yellow.
Completely agree Belinda thank you for your comment!
Looovveee your post! I was already taking almost of these for other reasons but now I am more aware. Thank you 😊 I would give Ginkgo Biloba a try as well! It’s like lifting fog from your eyes