Adderall Alternatives to Consider Following the 2022 Shortage

Alternatives for the 2022 Adderall Shortage

In October 2022, the FDA announced a shortage of immediate-release Adderall due to manufacturing delays and insufficient supplies. Adderall is often an integral part of treatment for those with ADHD or narcolepsy, and the possibility of missing your medication can be both frustrating and stressful. 

In the guide below, we explore alternatives you can pursue to maintain your health and well-being until the shortage is resolved. Information provided about each medication includes its drug class, what it’s used to treat, potential side effects, interactions, and health warnings. You can use this information to consult with your healthcare provider when choosing an appropriate prescription for your condition.  
If you’re seeking an Adderall alternative for your ADHD treatment because of the shortage, Klarity can help.  At Klarity, we connect you with a qualified online healthcare provider who can prescribe ADHD medication. Book an appointment today to see a healthcare provider in just 48 hours.

1. Ritalin

Like Adderall, Ritalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that increases the brain’s production of norepinephrine and dopamine. This activity allows you to focus and helps you control impulsive behavior. Ritalin does not last as long as Adderall, with its effects wearing off after two to three hours, but it can be a useful alternative.

Side Effects of Ritalin

Ritalin has several common side effects that include:

• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Stomach pain
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Palpitations or increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Headache
• Sweating
• Skin rash
• Numbness or tingling
• Psychosis
• Cold hands or feet
• Vision problems

Warnings for Ritalin

Like Adderall, Ritalin should only be taken as prescribed, as it can lead to habit formation and dependency. Talk to your care provider if you have a history of substance misuse to determine if Ritalin is the right medication for you.

You should not take Ritalin within two weeks of taking one of the following MAO inhibitors:

• Methylene blue injection
• Linezolid
• Isocarboxazid
• Phenelzine
• Selegiline
• Tranylcypromine
• Rasagiline

Ritalin can create or exacerbate psychosis, leading to changes in behavior or mood. If you experience bipolar disorder or depression, talk to your healthcare professional to ensure that Ritalin will work with your current plan of care. 

2. Modafinil

Modafinil, also known as Provigil, is a non-amphetamine central nervous system (CNS) stimulant with effects like increased alertness, wakefulness, and attention span. Initially approved to treat narcolepsy or excessive daytime sleepiness, Modafinil has also been used to decrease impulsiveness in people with ADHD. 

Side Effects of Modafinil

Some side effects of Modafinil may dissipate once your body grows accustomed to the medication. These common side effects include nausea, headache, anxiety, and nervousness.

If you experience any of these less common side effects, contact your healthcare provider:

• Black stool
• Blurry vision
• Chest pain
• Chills or fever
• Clumsiness
• Fainting or dizziness
• Depression
• Increased thirst or urination
• Changes in mood
• Memory issues
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Shakiness
• Tics
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Abnormal tiredness or weakness

Contact emergency medical care if you’ve overdosed and are agitated, have an increased heart rate or blood pressure, and have trouble sleeping.

Warnings for Modafinil

Modafinil can cause severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. If you experience skin rashes, itching, shortness of breath, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the hands, face, and mouth, stop taking Modafinil and seek medical attention immediately. 

Modafinil can also reduce the efficiency of some birth control medications. If you’re taking this medication with contraceptives, use other forms of protection if you do not wish to become pregnant. 

Modafinil Interactions

You should always consult your care provider if you’re taking any other medications or have preexisting conditions or allergies before taking a new medication. 

Modafinil interacts with 449 other medications and nine diseases. Of the medications, the most frequently checked moderate interactions are Lexapro and Wellbutrin. Major interactions with diseases include:

• Cardiac disease
• Hypertension
• Psychiatric disorders
• Liver disease

3. Vyvamind

Vyvamind is a nootropic supplement consisting of natural ingredients that can have neuro-stimulating effects. This supplement contains vitamins like B12, B6, L-Tyrosine, CDP Choline, and Caffeine Anhydrous, which work together to improve cognitive functions like concentration and memory. As it’s an over-the-counter option, you won’t need a prescription.

Side Effects of Vyvamind

Because Vyvamind is a natural supplement, side effects are minimal. You should always take the recommended serving, as consuming more than the recommended dose can lead to serious side effects like:

• Elevated heart rate
• Dizziness
• Severe headache
• Shortness of breath

Warnings for Vyvamind

Talk to your healthcare provider about any preexisting conditions or other medications you’re taking before starting Vyvamind. Vyvamind should not be consumed if you are pregnant or under the age of 18. Additionally, you should not take Vyvamind along with other caffeinated products, other stimulants, or alcohol. 

Vyvamind Interactions

Vyvamind can interact with alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulants, increasing the possibility of negative side effects. 

4. Guanfacine

Guanfacine, also known as Tenex or Intuniv, is a non-stimulant prescription medication in the alpha agonist class. The extended-release form of Guanfacine impacts the part of the brain that controls impulsiveness and attention and can be used to treat symptoms of ADHD.

Side Effects of Guanfacine

Guanfacine has several common side effects, including:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Skin rash
• Impotence
• Constipation
• Headache

If you experience an allergic reaction to Guanfacine, stop taking it and contact your healthcare provider. 

Warnings for Guanfacine

Take Guanfacine exactly as directed by your care provider. If you experience excessive drowsiness, slowed heart rate, vision loss, confusion, or feeling like you might pass out, you may have overdosed. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. 

Additionally, this medication may not be right for you if you have a history of cardiovascular, liver, or kidney disease. 

Guanfacine Interactions

Guanfacine interacts with 422 medications and five diseases. Of the medications most frequently checked for interactions, five are moderate interactions, including: 

• Abilify
• Benadryl
• Concerta
• Seroquel
• Wellbutrin

Guanfacine also has moderate interactions with the following disease:

• Depression
• Hypotension
• ADHD
• Liver disease
• Bradyarrhythmia

You should also avoid consuming grapefruit juice when taking Guanfacine, as it can increase blood levels and the side effects of the medication. 

Summary of Adderall Shortage Alternatives

If you’re looking for an alternative to Adderall to get you through the shortage, you have options. Ritalin may be the best option for you, as it is also a CNS stimulant that’s fast-acting. 

Modafinil is a much milder-acting stimulant as compared to Adderall, but it can have fewer negative side effects. Guanfacine is a non-stimulant prescription medication that can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity, though it does take longer than Adderall to feel results. 

If you want to pursue a natural stimulant, Vyvamind is a supplement consisting of natural ingredients that can improve focus and clear brain fog. Ultimately, you want to discuss your options with a trained medical professional before making a decision as important as changing your medications. 

How Klarity Can Help You

When shortages make it difficult to access your usual prescription medication, it’s vital that you have access to an alternative treatment as quickly and affordably as possible. 

With Klarity, you can meet with a certified medical professional within 48 hours from the comfort of your home. They’ll evaluate your treatment needs and medical history to recommend an alternative prescription. Klarity will then send that prescription to your preferred pharmacy immediately, so there are no gaps in your treatment. 
To access a qualified provider and receive an Adderall alternative as quickly as possible, schedule an appointment today. We’ll connect you to a specialist within 48 hours so you can access the treatment you need to manage your ADHD.