Jaundice in Babies: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Understanding Jaundice: What You Need To Know

When red blood cells die, they leave behind bilirubin, a yellow-orange pigment in the blood. The liver filters bilirubin from the bloodstream to be removed in your stool. If too much is in your system or your liver is overloaded, it causes a buildup known as hyperbilirubinemia. This causes jaundice, where your skin and the whites of your eyes look yellow.

Newborn babies often get it. About 60% have jaundice, also known as icterus, within the first couple of days after birth. Adults can get it, too, although it's less common. See a doctor right away if you think you have jaundice. It could be a symptom of a liver, blood, or gallbladder problem.

If too much bilirubin is left in your system, you can develop hyperbilirubinemia. This can lead to jaundice, which causes your skin and the whites of your eyes to turn yellow. (Photo Credit: Zay Nyi Nyi/Dreamstime)

There are four main types of jaundice, which are grouped by where the bilirubin collects in your body. A blood test can determine which type you have. 

Prehepatic

If bilirubin builds up before blood enters the liver, it's known as prehepatic jaundice. This means you're breaking down red blood cells and creating more bilirubin than your liver can process. 

Hepatic

If your liver isn't able to process bilirubin well, it's called hepatic jaundice.

Posthepatic

Posthepatic jaundice is when bilirubin builds up after passing through the liver and your body can't clear it quickly enough. 

Obstructive jaundice 

This condition is when bile isn't able to drain into your intestines because of a blocked or narrow bile or pancreatic duct. This type of jaundice has a high death rate, so it's important to catch and treat it early.

Jaundice may have no symptoms. Any signs you have may depend on how quickly the condition is getting worse. Well-known symptoms are yellowing of the skin and jaundice eyes (also called scleral icterus). But there are others to watch for, including: 

Fever

Stomach pain

Chills

Dark urine

Tar- or clay-colored stools

Flu-like symptoms

Itchy skin

Weight loss

Feeling unusually irritated

Confusion 

Abnormal drowsiness

Bruising or bleeding easily

Bloody vomit

How long does jaundice last in adults? 

How long jaundice lasts depends on what's causing it and the treatment you need. If a medication is causing it, jaundice will fade after you stop taking it. If hepatitis is causing it, medications can be taken to treat the condition. If there is a blocked bile duct or gallstones, surgery may be required. 

Jaundice in adults is rare, but you can get it for many reasons. These include:

Hepatitis: Liver inflammation can be caused by a virus, autoimmune disorder, alcohol or drug use, or chemical exposure. It may be short-lived (acute) or chronic, which means it lasts for at least 6 months. Long-term inflammation can damage the liver, causing jaundice.

Alcohol-related liver disease: If you drink heavily over a long period of time – typically 8 to 10 years – you could seriously damage your liver. Two diseases in particular, alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis, harm the liver.

Other liver disease: Cirrhosis can also be caused by autoimmune diseases, genetic conditions that are passed down in your family, and hepatitis. A severe condition known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis can cause nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. With this kind of liver disease, fat builds up in your liver along with inflammation, which damages it over time. 

Blocked bile ducts: These are thin tubes that carry a fluid called bile from your liver and gallbladder to your small intestine. If the tubes are blocked by gallstones, cancer, inflammation, or rare liver diseases, you could get jaundice.

Pancreatic cancer:This is the 10th most common cancer in men and the ninth in women. It can block the bile duct, causing jaundice.

Certain medicines: Drugs like acetaminophen, penicillin, birth control pills, and steroids have been linked to liver disease.

Blood clots: If your body reabsorbs a large blot clot (hematoma) under the skin, it can increase bilirubin levels.

Hemolytic anemias: Destroyed blood cells are sometimes removed from the bloodstream too quickly, increasing bilirubin levels. 

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They'll then give you a physical exam to see if there's swelling in your liver. 

To get more information, your doctor will likely order blood tests to measure bilirubin and cholesterol levels and get a complete blood count (CBC). If you have jaundice, your level of bilirubin will be high. Your doctor may order other tests to find the cause of your jaundice and how severe it is, including:

A hepatitis panel, which is a blood test that shows if you have, or have had, hepatitis. It tests for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. If there are no hepatitis antibodies in your blood, it means you don't have the condition, or you had it in the past, but your body has cleared it. 

Tests to check enzyme levels in the liver to see how well it is functioning. If enzyme levels are higher or lower than normal, it can mean you have disease or damage to the liver or bile ducts. 

Imaging, like a CT scan, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, a type of MRI that checks for blocked ducts near the gallbladder 

A liver biopsy, to show if you have damage to, or disease in, your liver. During the test, a small piece of your liver is removed either with a needle inserted into the belly to the liver, through a vein in your neck, or through a cut in your belly.

Prothrombin time, which measures how long it takes for blood plasma to clot. Your blood will be taken, and a laboratory will test it to see if it clots faster or slower than the normal range (which is between 10 and 13 seconds). If it clots too slowly, that may mean there are problems with your liver. 

In adults, jaundice itself usually isn't treated. But your doctor will treat the condition that's causing it.

If you have acute viral hepatitis, jaundice will go away on its own as your liver heals. If a blocked bile duct is to blame, your doctor may suggest surgery to open it. If your skin is itching, your doctor can prescribe cholestyramine to be taken by mouth. This medication is used to remove bile acids from your body, which cause itching. 

Phototherapy for jaundice

Phototherapy uses a fluorescent white or blue-spectrum light that breaks down bilirubin so it can be released from the body. This treatment is used for newborns, but phototherapy has not been shown to be effective for treating jaundice in adults. 

You may have a higher risk for jaundice if you drink too much alcohol or have hepatitis. It is also more common in people during middle age. 

You can reduce your risk of jaundice through lifestyle changes like:

Avoid herbal supplements (which can be toxic to the liver) unless recommended by your doctor 

Stop smoking

Reduce or cut out all alcohol (the CDC recommends no more than two alcoholic drinks per day for men and one daily for women)

Don't use intravenous drugs (drugs that go into your vein)

Don't take more prescription medication than you are prescribed

Get all recommended vaccines before traveling overseas

Use safe sex practices

Maintain a healthy weight

Keep your cholesterol in a healthy range

Unlike newborn jaundice, jaundice is not common in adults. It usually goes away on its own, but your doctor may recommend treatment if there is a condition causing it. If you have jaundice symptoms, including yellowish skin or eyes, flu-like symptoms, dark urine, or belly pain, talk to your doctor right away. 

Is jaundice very serious? For infants with high neonatal bilirubin levels, or jaundice, it is usually not serious and goes away on its own. But if it lasts more than 2 weeks, your doctor may suggest treatments to lower bilirubin levels or find out if it's caused by another illness. Jaundice is usually not harmful in adults and goes away over time. If you have symptoms, talk to your doctor right away to see if they suggest tests, imaging, or treatment. 

How do they fix jaundice? Your doctor will test you to figure out if there is a condition like hepatitis, liver disease, cancer, or blocked bile ducts causing jaundice. If so, that condition will be treated. 

What does jaundice in adults feel like? Sometimes there are no symptoms. Or you may feel like you have the flu, a stomachache, or itchy skin.

Can adults recover from jaundice? Yes, sometimes without treatment. If a health condition is the cause, that will need to be treated.

6 Best Natural Adderall Alternatives For Adults In 2023

If you're looking for a natural and effective alternative to prescription adderall medication, this guide is for you. The best adderall alternatives can offer a variety of brain health benefits such as improved memory, better focus, more energy, increased productivity, and enhanced mental clarity.

But with so many nootropic pills and brain supplements on the market, choosing the best adderall substitute isn't easy. To help you decide, we've reviewed the top natural adderall replacements on the market. Each supplement below was evaluated on a variety of factors including benefits, ingredients, price, and reviews.

Whether you have ADHD or just want to unlock 100% brain power, here are the best brain boosting supplements of 2023.

Best OTC Adderall Alternatives

Vyvamind: Best natural alternative to prescription ADHD medication

Noocube: Best for focus, problem-solving, and brain fog

Nooceptin: Best for brain cell regeneration, anxiety, and mood

Mind Lab Pro: Best for students and learning

Hunter Focus: Best for entrepreneurs and high-performing professionals

#1. Vyvamind: Best Adderall Alternative Overall (Norcal Marketing)

Vyvamind is a new addition to most lists of the best Adderall substitutes, but it is steadily climbing the rankings due to its potency, reliability and safety profile.

Vvyamind was created to mimic the main beneficial effects of smart drugs and ADHD medications but without the side effects or addiction risks. The result is an effective natural adderall alternative which provides the mental energy boost of a potent caffeine pill with the cognitive enhancement and motivation support of a daily nootropic.

It seems to be working already, with some customers referring to Vyvamind as "natural Vyvanse" albeit unofficially.

Vyvamind Benefits

By combining a handful of carefully selected, clinically proven nootropics, Vyvamind is able to improve cognitive function, making you more focused and productive.

The benefits you can expect from taking Vyvamind include:

Increased attention span

Intense focus

Help getting into a 'flow state'

Increased brain energy and less mental tiredness

Increased alertness

Reduced need to sleep

Faster processing speeds

How Vyvamind Works

Vyvamind gets to work immediately, launching a multi-pronged attack against low motivation, distractedness and brain fog. The ingredients have been selected and dosed in such a way as to produce broad improvements in cognitive function, with a particular focus on boosting concentration and mental stamina.

The main mechanism of action of Vyvamind is neurotransmitter manipulation. Specifically, the ingredients in Vyvamind quickly increase the production of two key neurotransmitters: acetylcholine and dopamine. Acetylcholine is responsible for executive cognitive functions (speech, working memory, information processing, reactions, etc) while dopamine is largely responsible for motivating behavior (as well as supporting a positive mood and confidence).

While it is stimulating neurotransmitter production, Vyvamind also dramatically increases mental energy with its precision dose of caffeine anhydrous. This caffeine dose is combined with a generous serving of theanine to help control side effects, reduce anxiety and prevent "burnout".

All of this is backed up with comprehensive brain health support and help with natural stress management to keep you functioning at 100% over long periods of time.

Vyvamind Formula Overview

Let's take a look at the brain pill ingredients in Vyvamind and how they work:

Citicoline: Arguably the most effective cholinergic in existence, Citicoline quickly raises acetylcholine levels in the brain. This increases focus, concentration, and learning ability.

Tyrosine: Taking this amino acid has been found to significantly increase dopamine levels, boosting motivation and enhancing overall cognition.

Theanine: Found in abundance in tea, Theanine is a potent nootropic which eliminates brain fog, reduces anxiety and suppresses the side effects of caffeine while making the stimulant stronger at the same time.

Caffeine: This Vyvamind ingredient needs no introduction. Caffeine is probably the strongest natural stimulant used as a supplement today. Taking just 75mg can eliminate fatigue, heighten alertness and sharpen focus.

B6: Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient required for the synthesis of dopamine, healthy energy metabolism in brain cells, and more. B6 deficiencies are linked to higher incidences of ADHD.

B12: Vitamin B12 is another vital B vitamin. It is used in many nootropics because it increases mental energy and helps maintain healthy neurons.

When to Take Vyvamind

We think Vyvamind is best for people in need of a sharp increase in focus, motivation and mental energy and less suitable for people looking for a daily brain health supplement. We recommend taking Vyvamind when you know you need to be mentally switched on and 'locked in' on your work for 6-8 hours.

For best results, take Vyvamind first thing in the morning with a full glass of water, orange juice, or tea. It is not advised to take Vyvamind with a heavily caffeinated drink. Taking Vyvamind with or immediately after breakfast should make it less powerful initially but also longer lasting.

Natural OTC adderall alternative with rave reviews

Great substitute for prescription medication for treating ADHD

Natural ingredients with no known adverse effects

One of the best brain supplements for high-performing adults

Discounts when buying more than 1 bottle

Click Here for the Lowest Price on Vyvamind

#2. Noocube: Best for Focus and Memory (Norcal Marketing)

Noocube is our pick for the best adderall alternative of 2023. Noocube is an all-in-one nootropic formula that offers razor sharp focus, improved memory, better problem solving skills, and enhanced mental clarity.

Unlike other smart drugs, Noocube contains zero caffeine or stimulating ingredients, which frequently cause adverse side effects. Instead, this over-the-counter (OTC) Adderall alternative relies on all-natural science-backed ingredients.

The formula's star, Lutemax 2020, even won the Nutraceutical Business Review Nutraaward for the best natural ingredient in 2018. The company used information from a randomized, double-blind, placebo study on the ingredients with 59 participants for a full year to confirm the promised results.

Noocube Benefits

What can you achieve when taking this natural OTC Adderall alternative? Available online without a prescription, Noocube offers the following benefits:

Sharpens cognitive function and focus capabilities

Heightens problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Improves memory retention rates

Helps you feel more alert without the jitters that caffeine causes

Boosts mental energy

Reduces mental stress

Helps you feel more motivated to complete work or school projects

Reduces brain fog and stress

Protects your eyesight and boosts brain health

Achieves mental clarity

Enables you to sleep well at night and feel balanced moods during the day

Fuels your brain with safe and organic ingredients

Decreases your chance of developing Alzheimer's or dementia

How Noocube Works

Noocube scouted some of Europe's top medical professional experts to help craft a unique formula that can offer the results claimed above. The medical professional group gathered ancient herbs and minerals with proven histories to develop a bullet-proof formula with 13 key ingredients. Together, they boost cognitive function, mental energy, brain function, and blood flow to treat ADHD, brain fog, damaged brain cells, or other cognitive performance issues.

Noocube designed this formula to help adult men and women of all ages work more efficiently every day. The company understands how challenging it is to juggle work, deadlines, projects, school, tests, studying, friends, family, and everything else when you're mentally exhausted.

Noocube Formula Overview

The Noocube Adderall replacement is an excellent option for anyone who needs a cognitive enhancer without the risks.

What ingredients does Noocube use to achieve such excellent results? In each bottle, you'll find seven powerful Nootropic supplements that combine to improve cognitive performance and brain functioning abilities.

Alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (Alpha-GPC) helps your brain cells communicate with each other to boost memory, concentration, learning, and recall rates.

Huperzine-A supplies your brain with acetylcholine to prevent depleted brain chemical exhaustion.

Cat's claw is an antioxidant that improves general brain health and brain function.

Bacopa monnieri regenerates damaged brain cells and helps you grow new ones.

Oat straw boosts the cognitive brain function in adults who suffer mental exhaustion.

L-theanine and L-tyrosine amino acids improve mood, reduce stress, and clear your mind for optimal brain performance.

Taking Noocube

Noocube advertises its benefits for:

Stressed-out parents who need help managing the overwhelming job or raising children

Motivated achievers who aim for the stars and need a boost to reach them

Students who struggle to focus on studying for tests or writing papers

Athletes who want to improve their mental clarity, agility, focus, and energy

Adults over 55 who want to sharpen their brain function as they age and prevent degenerative diseases

The company recommends taking two capsules in the morning with a glass of water. You should start feeling the cognitive performance effects in only 30 to 45 minutes. The average user claims that the supplement continues supporting their brain health for around 10 hours after taking it, so it should last you throughout your day.Ou can also check out our in-depth Noocube review for more information on this supplement.

If you're not 100% satisfied with the results, Noocube offers a 60-day money-back guarantee so you can receive a full refund on your purchase.

Click Here for the Lowest Price on Noocube

#3. Nooceptin: Best for Long-Term Brain Health (Norcal Marketing)

Nooceptin is a cognitive enhancer designed to provide total brain optimization. While it is typically used for improving cognitive function, it acts as a powerful and effective Adderall substitute when taken long-term.

Nooceptin dramatically improves focus, working memory, and learning capacity. It allows you to concentrate for prolonged periods, to process information quickly, and to retrieve it from your memory when you need it much faster. All of this makes Nooceptin a fantastic natural alternative to Adderall.

The benefits of taking Nooceptin include:

● Increases focus and concentration

● Boosts working memory

● Speeds up information processing

● Reduces mental fatigue

● Lowers anxiety and improves mental health

● Protects against cognitive decline

All of this makes Nooceptin a great alternative to Adderall, especially for people who want all of the same benefits as Adderall but without the side effects (or without having to get a prescription).

Unlike Adderall, Nooceptin does not contain any stimulants, so does not give you an instant energy kick. However, it does provide many of the same cognitive benefits you get from Adderall and other ADHD medications, and more!

Click Here For The Best Price On Nooceptin

#4. Mind Lab Pro: Best for Students and Learning (Norcal Marketing)

Mind Lab Pro ranks at the top of nearly all best Adderall alternatives lists because of its top-notch potency, clean ingredients list, and extensive clinical research. If other natural alternatives didn't work for you in the past, then you should consider Mind Lab Pro's incredibly strong cognitive performance formula.

As-yet-unpublished independent research by Dr. Andrea Utley at Leeds University with placebo-controlled, double-blind trials demonstrated that this natural alternative isn't a hoax but instead showed promising results, especially for older participants in the clinical trials.

If the research doesn't say enough, consider the company's impressive sales and reviews. You'll find a handful of real reviews on the official website speaking for the millions of bottles sold across six continents. The product has over 2,000 ratings, averaging approximately 4.5 out of five stars.

Mind Lab Pro Benefits

Each Adderall alternative on our list offers varying advantages, so let's look at what you can expect when taking Mind Lab Pro:

Improved concentration for long periods

Better memory retention rates

Sharpened mental clarity and verbal fluidity

Elongated mental strength with brain cell regeneration

Improved creativity and confidence

Stronger mental agility

Faster thinking skills

Heightened moods and energy levels

Better processing and critical thinking abilities

Reduced hyperactivity inside your brain so you can feel calm

How Mind Lab Pro Works

Traditional nootropics, or "smart drugs," target only a few different brain areas to improve the overall cognitive function of each. Mind Lab Pro heightens this concept by unlocking cognitive benefits for your entire mind. Rather than just helping with memory retention or brain fog, this Adderall alternative moves beyond the self-limited formula and provides a natural pathway to all-encompassing improved brain health.

The formula strategy relies on 11 clinically dosed natural nootropics that optimize six brain pathways and four mental performance areas. Brain energy, chemicals, blood flow, alpha brain waves, neuroprotection, and neurodegeneration pathways allow the nootropics to boost memory, performance, mindset, and structural areas.

To prove this theory, the soon-to-be published University of Leeds study researched a group of 105 people for 30 days, with one group taking a placebo and the experimental group taking the nootropic formula. Researchers compared pre and post scores on simple and choice reaction time and anticipation.

Mind Lab Pro Formula Overview

Often, alternatives to Adderall use harsh chemicals that harm your health. The Mind Lab Pro formula includes an appropriate mix of safe and balanced ingredients that work together to reach every nook and cranny in the human brain.

Citicoline improves focus and memory retention.

Phosphatidylserine enhances your brain chemistry to support long-term memories.

Lion's mane mushroom supports brain regeneration and brain health.

Bacopa Monnieri reduces memory recall issues.

L-theanine amino acid helps you stay relaxed while focusing.

Rhodiola Rosea resolves stress so you can avoid mental exhaustion.

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine amino acids improve cognitive performance and multitasking abilities.

Maritime pine bark extract boosts cerebral blood flow.

Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 help allocate your increased brain energy appropriately.

Taking Mind Lab Pro

Taking Mind Lab Pro is easy. The company recommends starting with two capsules daily. Swallow them in the morning with water, coffee, or juice before eating breakfast.

For increased results, you can take two more at lunchtime. Mind Lab Pro recommends using the natural Adderall substitutes if you want to:

Be more productive at work

Study for a test

Improve your communication skills

Gain confidence

Work better under pressure

Excel at any games, sports, or extracurriculars

Think creatively

Take tests with better focus

Remember things easier

Clear your mindset

Rid your body of your Adderall prescription

If you're still unsure, Mind Lab Pro offers a 30-day return period where you can receive a full refund if you're unsatisfied with the results.

Click Here for the Lowest Price on Mind Lab Pro

#5. Hunter Focus: Best for High-Performing Adults (Norcal Marketing)

The company Hunter Evolve understands how trying to achieve your goals while dealing with modern-world stresses is nearly impossible without added support, so it offers a solution. Hunter Focus is a potent, high-dose nootropic that helps unlock your brain's full potential, allowing you to access your deepest creative avenues. Using only safe and scientifically tested ingredients, Hunter Focus provides one of the best natural Adderall alternatives on the market.

Rather than consuming unnecessary fillers and chemicals, Hunter Focus fills your body with only the necessary nutrients for better cognitive function and sharper mental abilities. The Hunter Focus research team hand-picked each ingredient in the formula using extensive peer-reviewed evidence and statistical proof. The company follows the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) Current Good Manufacturer Regulations with only U.S. And U.K.-based facilities that operate with gold-level standards.

Hunter Focus Benefits

With Hunter Focus, you can enjoy various cognitive function improvements that streamline your daily work efforts. The Hunter Focus natural Adderall substitute offers the following advantages:

Enhanced memory retention abilities

Stronger acute concentration skills

Improved moods with less anxiety and depression related to stress

Boosted energy levels without the annoying mid-afternoon crashes

Stronger creativity and problem-solving abilities

Rejuvenated brain activity for optimized learning potentials

Treating ADHD or any cognitive health troubles shouldn't require unsafe chemicals. Whether you're under pressure at work, sweating for a test, or trying to remember a coworker's name, this effective Adderall alternative will help your brain reach its maximum potential.

How Hunter Focus Works

Your brain powers everything you do, so it's no surprise that it uses nearly 20% of your body's energy and oxygen. Different herbs, minerals, amino acids, and nutrients supply your brain with the blood flow and power it needs to function properly. If you miss out on these nutrients due to a poor diet, environmental stresses, or chemical imbalances, then you may struggle with decreased cognitive function.

Hunter Focus works by supplying your mind with the necessary building blocks for paving stronger brain signal pathways. The natural chemical compounds enhance your metabolism, and the enzymes help your neurotransmitters learn to communicate properly.

Unlike the first few natural Adderall alternatives on this list, Hunter Focus uses more ingredients that group into different categories: concentration, memory, and mood. The 20 naturally derived supplements amplify each other's effects to boost all three of those nootropic benefits.

Hunter Focus Formula Overview

Each Hunter Focus capsule includes the following safe ingredients:

Citicoline

N-acetyl-L-tyrosine

L-theanine

Ginkgo Biloba leaf

Spanish sage

Lion's mane mushroom

Maritime pine bark extract

Bacopa

Rhodiola rosea

Phosphatidylserine

Ashwagandha

Caffeine

Panax ginseng

Vitamins B6, B9, B12, C, D3, and K2

Taking Hunter Focus

Hunter Focus primarily advertises its effects for aspirational and ambitious men and women over 3o years old. Unlike the other natural Adderall alternatives we've listed, Hunter Focus isn't ideal for students with diagnosed attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or senior citizens with degenerative diseases. Instead, this natural Adderall substitute is an excellent choice for people who want to take advantage of their brain's full capacity to achieve their life goals.

The company recommends taking six capsules daily for three months to see the full effects. Each bottle contains 180 pills (a one-month supply). Bulk purchasers enjoy free shipping, discounted rates, and included gifts.

Click Here for the Lowest Price on Hunter Focus

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription medication commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Comprising two active ingredients—amphetamine and dextroamphetamine—it functions as a central nervous system stimulant affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. By increasing the availability of specific neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, Adderall helps improve concentration, focus, and impulse control, thus helping to reduce symptoms of ADHD.

The ADHD medication is available in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulations. The IR version is usually taken multiple times a day, while the XR version is designed for once-a-day dosing. As one of the more potent stimulant drugs, Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. This designation means it has a high potential for abuse and is available only through a doctor's prescription.

While effective for treating ADHD, Adderall comes with a range of side effects, including insomnia, dry mouth, increased heart rate, and anxiety. Because of these risks, some individuals look for natural alternatives to Adderall to manage their ADHD symptoms.

Natural Alternatives to Adderall Citicoline

Citicoline, a.K.A. Cytidine diphosphate-choline or CDP-choline, is a naturally occurring brain chemical that increases acetylcholine (ACh) levels.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter responsible for many physiological processes, including learning and memory. Alzheimer's patients suffer from disrupted acetylcholine function, while people with ADHD typically have lower-than-average ACh levels.

Thanks to its ability to boost acetylcholine levels, Citicoline is one of the most popular natural Adderall alternatives on the market. However, it's important to choose a quality supplement since product efficiency may vary between brands.

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine is a common amino acid in various foods like meat, eggs, and dairy products. As a protein building block, L-tyrosine contributes to the production of vital neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine.

Norepinephrine acts as a vasoconstrictor and boosts alertness. Dopamine regulates moods by activating the brain's "reward center" and plays an important role in memory and spatial learning. Low dopamine and norepinephrine levels strongly correlate with ADHD.

It's often difficult to get enough L-tyrosine from the diet alone, so people who struggle with ADHD may benefit from taking an L-tyrosine supplement to boost the production of norepinephrine and dopamine.

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba, a traditional Chinese herbal supplement, can boost cerebral blood flow (CBF), which suggests that this ancient remedy may also improve cognitive function. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba is a powerful antioxidant, which may protect the brain from oxidative stress.

A randomized, placebo-controlled study discovered that Ginkgo biloba might help combat ADHD effects in children as a supplemental treatment. People who use Ginkgo may have to wait several weeks until they feel its full beneficial effect.

Since Ginkgo is a safe, natural supplement, it's worth trying if you're looking for natural supplements to replace adderall.

Mineral Supplements (Zinc, Magnesium, Iron)

Mineral deficiencies may interfere with cognitive functions, memory, and concentration. Clinical studies revealed that zinc levels could be lower in people with ADHD, while iron supplementation may benefit children with ADHD who receive methylphenidate treatment.

Low magnesium levels also correlate with ADHD. Some research shows that magnesium deficiency may reduce attention span and cause irritability, while other studies suggest that a higher level of magnesium in the brain improves memory.

Since excessively high mineral levels may be toxic, it's important to use discernment when choosing and/or combining supplements. A simple blood test can help uncover any existing mineral deficiencies.

B Vitamins

Vitamins of the B group serve as coenzymes in many vital biological processes, from energy metabolism to brain health. Clinical studies have linked vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, to mood regulation and alertness, while low levels of this essential vitamin may cause anxiety and irritability. B6 coupled with magnesium may help combat hyper-excitability in children.

Other studies suggest that a supplement of vitamin B12 combined with iron may help treat ADHD symptoms and learning difficulties.

B vitamins naturally occur in many foods, including fish, spinach, and bananas. Vitamin B12 appears almost exclusively in animal-based products. A balanced supplement may ensure optimal levels of these essential vitamins.

Methionine

Methionine, an essential amino acid, participates in fat breakdown, glutathione production, and other crucial cellular functions. Some research suggests that methionine may enhance memory recall and reduce depression.

While methionine may convert to homocysteine, an amino acid that correlates with heart disease, most healthy people shouldn't worry about their methionine levels or limit methionine-containing foods.

Many foods, including nuts, seeds, meat, seafood, egg whites, and other animal protein sources, are abundant in methionine. Incorporating these foods into a healthy, balanced diet should provide enough methionine for most people's needs without taking extra supplements.

GABA

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid that acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter. GABA decreases nervous system activity, which induces a calming, soothing effect and reduces stress, fear, and anxiety. Reduced GABA concentration corresponds with developmental disorders like autism and ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety.

GABA derives from glutamate, an amino acid that commonly appears in many high-protein foods. However, direct sources of GABA in the diet are rare, so many people try an OTC GABA supplement to relieve stress and boost cognitive function.

Since GABA is a naturally occurring amino acid, supplements are usually safe and may benefit people interested in natural Adderall alternatives.

Caffeine

Caffeine, one of the longest-used and most popular CNS stimulants in the world, is famous for its ability to boost alertness and improve concentration. The coffee bean's powerful energizing and focus-restorative properties make it one of the most effective natural alternatives to Adderall. Caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor, antagonizes sleep-inducing adenosine receptors, and promotes brain function by stimulating calcium release from cells.

Most American adults have at least one cup of coffee throughout the day. Many OTC supplements also contain caffeine for an energy boost. However, excess caffeine may cause restlessness and insomnia, so it's best to stop consuming caffeine at least six hours before bedtime.

L-Theanine

L-theanine, an amino acid, occurs naturally in green tea and may account for some of this healthy drink's beneficial properties. L-theanine may help reduce stress, improve mood, and contribute to improved brain health.

An L-theanine supplement is the perfect partner for caffeine. While caffeine stimulates the CNS, L-theanine acts as a relaxant, which can counterbalance caffeine's side effects of nervousness, restlessness, and sleep disruption. A double-blind study found that combining caffeine and L-theanine improved alertness and accuracy in participants who performed attention and memory tasks.

Since caffeine and L-theanine are natural, safe, and easily available, using both makes sense for people living with ADHD.

Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea, a cold-climate perennial native to northern mountainous areas, is a traditional medicinal herb. Rhodiola rosea contains active ingredients that can act as stress adaptogens. For centuries, people in Scandinavia and Russia have used Rhodiola rosea, a.K.A. Golden root, to treat anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

Several studies have placed Rhodiola rosea on the list of non-pharmacological ADHD treatments. Research suggests that Rhodiola rosea may have a stimulating and emotionally calming effect that can alleviate ADHD symptoms.

As a safe plant-based supplement, Rhodiola rosea may be an excellent choice for people looking to try natural Adderall alternatives.

Prescription Adderall Alternatives Ritalin (methylphenidate)

Ritalin, a popular prescription medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), acts as a central nervous system stimulant. It works by altering brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, to enhance cognitive function and improve focus. Though Ritalin has a shorter active duration compared to some alternatives, it is effective in managing ADHD symptoms through multiple daily doses.

Concerta (methylphenidate extended-release)

Concerta, an extended-release version of methylphenidate, stands as one of the best Adderall alternatives for those seeking steady therapeutic effects throughout the day. By providing a prolonged release of the active ingredient, Concerta helps to reduce ADHD symptoms with a once-daily dose, aiding in the maintenance of improved focus and attention regulation.

Strattera (atomoxetine)

Strattera distinguishes itself as a non-stimulant option among Adderall alternatives, specifically designed to address ADHD symptoms. As a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, Strattera adjusts the balance of brain chemicals, contributing to enhanced cognitive function without the typical stimulant effects, which makes it a suitable choice for certain individuals with ADHD.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)

Vyvanse, a prodrug that is converted to an active form in the body, is a well-regarded option among prescription drugs for ADHD. By offering a smooth onset and offset of action, Vyvanse is effective in providing improved focus while minimizing the potential for abuse. This attribute has positioned Vyvanse as one of the best Adderall alternatives for patients looking to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions Are natural Adderall substitutes effective for treating ADHD?

The effectiveness of natural Adderall alternatives for treating ADHD is still a topic of debate and research. While some individuals report positive results, these natural supplements are not FDA-regulated medications and have not undergone the same rigorous testing as prescription ADHD treatments.

What ingredients should I look for in an adderall supplement?

When seeking a natural Adderall alternative, you may consider ingredients like caffeine for alertness, L-Theanine for relaxation without drowsiness, Bacopa Monnieri for memory enhancement, and Rhodiola Rosea for stress reduction and mental clarity. Ginkgo Biloba is often cited for improving focus, while Panax Ginseng may boost energy and improve concentration.

Can ashwagandha help with symptoms of ADHD?

Ashwagandha is a traditional herbal remedy that some believe may help with ADHD symptoms, primarily due to its adaptogenic and stress-reducing properties. Some preliminary studies suggest it might improve attention and reduce hyperactivity, but robust scientific evidence to substantiate these claims is limited.

Can you buy Adderall over the counter?

No, you cannot buy Adderall over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States or most other countries. Adderall is a prescription medication containing amphetamine salts and is classified as a controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependency. It is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, but it must be prescribed by a healthcare provider following a proper diagnosis. Unauthorized possession or distribution is illegal.

What is the closest thing to Adderall over-the-counter?

There is no over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is equivalent to Adderall, a prescription drug used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Some people turn to natural supplements like caffeine, ginseng, or Ginkgo Biloba as alternatives, but these are not FDA-approved for treating ADHD and their effectiveness is not substantiated by robust scientific evidence. If you're seeking treatment for ADHD or similar symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.

What nootropic is most like Adderall?

While no nootropic precisely mimics the effects of Adderall, some people consider Modafinil to be the closest legal alternative. Modafinil is a prescription drug that promotes wakefulness and is sometimes used off-label for cognitive enhancement. However, it's important to note that Modafinil also requires a prescription and has its own set of potential side effects.

Summary of the Top Recommended Adderall Alternatives

Vyvamind: Best natural alternative to prescription ADHD medication

Noocube: Best for focus, problem-solving, and brain fog

Nooceptin: Best for brain cell regeneration, anxiety, and mood

Mind Lab Pro: Best for students and learning

Hunter Focus: Best for entrepreneurs and high-performing professionals

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