If you’ve had trouble with prescription stimulants for ADHD in the last few years, don’t worry about it. Nearly 50 percent of ADHD clients have tried or are looking for alternative stimulants available over the counter to help with ADHD alternatives.
It is because, over the last couple of decades, Adderall and its generic counterparts, amphetamine salts like the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), are now prescribed too often and priced.
Insurance companies are often unwilling to cover the price of these drugs. So, those with ADHD have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket, as even those who suffer from narcolepsy or Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and those who belong to the category of ADHD a diagnosis. Those who suffer from these conditions can be forced to pay more than $400 per month for ADHD medication when only stimulants are needed to ease their sleep problems.
The over-prescription problem has many causes; however, poor or incorrect physician education is usually mentioned as the most significant factor. Studies have revealed that nearly two-thirds of doctors don’t feel confident when it comes to the diagnosis of ADHD for adults. It is particularly true because most ADHD cases are diagnosed at first in the onset of adulthood.
What Is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder that manifests as difficulties with hyperactivity, focus, and impulsive nature. It is believed that as high as 11 percent of children across the United States have ADHD. While the reasons behind ADHD aren’t known, it is believed that it could be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental aspects.
Signs and symptoms of ADHD can hinder the person’s ability at work or school and affect social interactions. The most commonly used method of treating ADHD has prescribed medications like Adderall and Ritalin. But, these drugs are expensive and can cause side effects like stomachaches, headaches, or insomnia.
ADHD in Adults
If you (or someone you know) are older than 18 years old and are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, There are solutions to help. Although many prescription (OTC) medications contain stimulants such as caffeine, these prescription stimulants that treat ADHD have been tested to determine their effects on adult consumers or have been accepted by adult consumers with no severe side effects.
ADHD is associated with diminished quality of life experienced by adults if not treated. For instance, people with ADHD tend to experience difficulties getting and maintaining jobs in comparison to people who don’t have ADHD. It is mainly the case for those with ADHD who did not receive treatment as children. If the signs of ADHD begin during childhood, the diagnosis is more likely to be diagnosed in the later years of life for a large portion of women who have ADHD.
What are the Pros and Cons of receiving over-the-counter stimulants for ADHD?
Doctors are currently debating the advantages and disadvantages of taking counter ADHD medications. Many people believe this over-the-counter ADHD medication isn’t strong enough, whereas others think that they’re a more economical and secure alternative to prescription medication. There are several alternative medications available over the counter to Adderall that is efficient in the treatment of ADHD.
The FDA doesn’t currently control these over-the-counter stimulants for ADHD. It is, therefore, up to each consumer to study the effectiveness of their over-the-drug stimulants before consuming them.
Many non-prescription medications are utilized to help treat ADHD symptoms. One of the benefits of over-the non-prescription stimulants for ADHD could be a reduction in the cost and fewer adverse consequences. These medications would be an excellent option for hardworking parents trying to survive and parents of children with ADHD.
One drawback of over-the-OTC stimulants prescribed for ADHD is that they’re not rigorously researched. So, the long-term impact of these OTC medications is not known. The second issue is that many prescription stimulants for ADHD are addictive and can result in addiction.
Medications Used to Treat ADHD
Some OTC medicines that have been found as effective for treating ADHD include:
- Caffeine
- Ritalin
- Adderall
- Dexedrine
Each medication has its pros and cons that should be discussed with your medical professional before starting treatment. The most commonly used drug available for purchase is caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant that may help increase focus and concentration. It blocks the adenosine receptors that are present in the brain, which prevents drowsiness.
Caffeine is naturally present in tea, coffee, and chocolate. It is also found in over-the-counter supplements. Caffeine affects the nervous system of central origin. Therefore, excessive use of it can cause restlessness and irritation.
Ritalin can be described as a stimulant neurotransmitter that affects serotonin and dopamine within the brain, increasing the clarity of thinking and concentration. Ritalin has been approved for on-the-counter usage by those over 16 years old.
Adderall is an even more potent stimulant that contains each of Ritalin as well as amphetamine sodium. It is generally administered for a brief duration due to its addictive characteristics. Combining Adderall with other alcohol or substances should be avoided because it may result in anxiety, overstimulation, a stroke, or a heart attack.
Dexedrine was accepted for use by kids by the FDA in 1996. It has since been prescribed to treat more than one million Americans. It contains dextroamphetamine sulfate. It is available in five mg and 10 mg tablets.
Another OTC stimulant is the plant Guarana. Guarana contained twice as much caffeine as coffee beans and was used over many years to boost the level of energy and to aid in weight loss.
Another over-the-counter substance is nicotine. Nicotine is a nicotinic-acetylcholine receptor within the brain, increasing concentration, and alertness. It’s important to remember that nicotine is highly addictive.
What Is Adderall?
Adderall is a medication that is commonly used for treating ADHD. The brand name is for amphetamine in combination with dextroamphetamine. Adderall includes two stimulants that work by increasing neurotransmitter activities in the brain regions that regulate motivation, attention, and reward processing.
The adverse effects of Adderall are different from individual to individual. These effects are generally temporary and disappear once the patient ceases taking the drug.
These prescription drugs increase the levels of dopamine within the brain. Dopamine is one of the neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, and concentration. When these prescription stimulants are used in excess and abused, they can cause an increase in the heart rate and blood pressure.
The potential risks of using Adderall to manage ADHD could include:
- A loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Vision blurred
- Over-stimulation
- Fatigue or depression
But, there is the possibility of developing dangerous side effects such as stroke, heart problems, seizures, and stroke. As with all medications, it is crucial to consult a physician before deciding whether or not to stop treatment.
The advantages of using Adderall in treating ADHD will include improving concentration, focus, and motivation. Adderall could help improve academic performance as well as involvement in social activities.
What Are The Side Effects of Adderall Addiction?
Adderall dependency may result in psychosis-related symptoms, depression, paranoia, and hallucinations. These signs usually result from excessive drug use and disappear once you stop the use. If these symptoms occur when using Adderall, it is essential to stop taking the drug immediately and seek medical assistance.
A few of the adverse consequences of Adderall usage include:
- Stomach pains/aches
- Dizziness
- Trouble falling asleep at night
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Frequent urination
Although most sufferers experience adverse effects of Adderall, these effects could vary for each person based on the person’s body’s chemistry or medical background. There are a few common adverse reactions that may occur during Adderall, which you might want to know about.
There is a chance that you will not notice any of the mentioned symptoms while taking Adderall; however, if you do experience any you do, you must speak with your doctor or pharmacist. There are alternative over-the generic medications that work as stimulants, can be bought without a prescription, and can mimic the adverse side effects associated with Adderall. However, before using these alternative prescription drugs, ensure you talk to your physician about any questions.
What Are Some Natural Alternatives to Adderall for the Treatment of ADHD?
People seeking alternative methods for Adderall to aid in treatments for ADHD frequently opt for over-the-counter stimulants. The over-the-counter stimulants used to treat ADHD are legally available, easily accessible, and can be bought without a prescription.
The most well-known prescription stimulants available for ADHD are nicotine and caffeine. Caffeine is present in tea, coffee chocolate, chocolate, and soft drinks. Nicotine can be found in cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco products.
Both nicotine and caffeine are stimulants that assist in improving focus and concentration. They function by increasing the levels of dopamine within the brain. Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter that helps control mood, movement, and focus. It is also important to remember that nicotine and caffeine are addictive substances.
If you’re considering using nicotine or caffeine to help treat the ADHD symptoms, consult your physician first. Some alternatives are safer.
Alternatives for Adderall to treat treatment of ADHD are:
- Vitamin B12 or Folate
- American Ginseng is a famous American
- Gingko Biloba
- Omega-fatty acids
- Nootropics (brain supplements)
The combination of exercise, sleep, and a healthy diet can improve your overall health and brain function and assist with ADHD or addiction recovery medication. Hydration is an essential aspect of recovery too.
Treatment For Adderall Addiction and ADHD
Addiction Treatment treatment for Adderall in ADHD includes an individual treatment program for addiction that takes into account the individual’s specific factors and situations. For certain people, the treatment could include medication to ease cravings and withdrawal symptoms and behavioral therapy over a specific time.
While caffeine has been linked to various health problems, including the heart and blood pressure, caffeine doesn’t cause the same adverse consequences as alcohol or other substances. It’s been available in the market since.
It’s crucial to know that those sensitive to caffeine should stay clear of items containing caffeine, such as over-the-counter energy drinks, and beverages with caffeine, such as Red Bull and Monster Energy drinks.
Inpatient Treatment
For those suffering from a severe addiction, the over-the-counter drugs aren’t enough to end the drug’s hold on them. So, people with severe addictions may require medical supervision throughout an Inpatient rehabilitation program.
The initial step to recovering from dependence on medications is detoxification, which helps the body cleanse itself of any over-the-counter drugs over five days. In this period, withdrawal symptoms are painful but aren’t life-threatening. The withdrawal symptoms usually subside after medication over the counter leaves their system ultimately.
The long-term addiction treatment program starts when a prescription drug eradicates a person’s body. Therapy can last six months or more and consists of several elements, including group therapy, individual therapy sessions with counselors, groups of support, and self-help classes.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient therapy can be an ideal alternative for patients suffering from addiction to medicines that require work or taking the care of families. It’s because patients in rehab can remain at home while they attend group therapy sessions for many months or even a whole year.
First, it is to recognize the signs of addiction to over-the-counter medicines. It includes giving background information that can help doctors identify over-the-counter medication history, analyze the current health condition, and set boundaries with medicines available on the market.
If patients are ready to undergo treatment with a prescription drug, patients may be offered medications such as bupropion (brand name Wellbutrin). Bupropion is a member of the antidepressant family and works on dopamine receptors within the brain that the over-the-counter medications affect. These medicines are used to alleviate OTC medication withdrawal symptoms.
Other OTC substances may necessitate Medical interventions. For instance, OTC dietary supplements may be misused and cause the addiction to over-the-counter drugs. Additionally, using OTC medications containing sedatives such as benzodiazepines ( Xanax and Valium) over the prescribed use could lead to physician intervention.
The most significant aspect of the over-the-counter medicine rehab is establishing limits with any OTC medication being taken. Specifics vary, but many OTC stimulants withdrawal treatment options are the gradual reduction of dosage or discontinuation of OTC stimulants without replacing treatment for ADHD.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
The treatment for Dual Diagnosis could be a beneficial treatment for those who are addicted to OTC medications. Dual diagnosis treatment can assist OTC drug addicts in dealing with any mental health issues they may be dealing with, contributing to their urge to take OTC medication in the beginning.
After Care Treatment
Treatment for substance abuse may vary in duration and intensity. Most people who suffer from addiction issues to OTC drugs must attend regular therapy sessions in outpatients for several months. The OTC drugs for ADHD can help individuals focus and remain on track.
But, these prescription substances can be addictive and result in abuse of prescription drugs in the absence of a prescription. Whether or not an individual is required to attend aftercare for addiction issues over the prescription stimulants is contingent upon factors like the degree of addiction and the individual’s requirements.
Holistic Addiction Treatment
Holistic addiction treatment is an approach for treating people who are the “whole person.” It means that a person’s emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health are considered when forming the treatment program. Holistic addiction therapy may include meditation, yoga, acupuncture, nutrition therapy, music therapy, and art, in addition to other types of treatment.
While the outcomes of pure holistic addiction treatments aren’t conclusive, treatments that integrate holistic approaches to addiction with evidence-based treatment have shown a better quality of treatment and care.
Improve Your Well-being By Receiving Treatment for Addiction to OTC Substances at Florida Center For Recovery
Utilizing over-the-counter stimulants to treat ADHD is an excellent idea for some. They are more affordable and offer fewer adverse interactions than prescription medications. However, they haven’t been extensively researched, which means their long-term effects remain undetermined. In addition, over-the-counter stimulants for ADHD are often addictive.
Florida Center for Recovery is a place to aid you in understanding the consequences of OTC stimulants used to treat ADHD. We also aim at those who are suffering from dependence on OTC drugs. If you or someone close to you suffer from addiction problems, Contact us now to help you recover and enhance your overall health and well-being.