4 Ritalin Alternatives

Ritalin (methylphenidate hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

As per the Nemours Foundation, Ritalin works by maintaining normal levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. 

Children and adults suffering from ADHD are reported to have deficiencies in producing these neurotransmitters. 

Ritalin is part of a group of ADHD medications called stimulants. For most children, this medicine is effective in alleviating ADHD symptoms, and they tolerate it well.   

However, as with any medication, side effects might occur, or the medication might not effectively control symptoms. 

This is why many individuals seek alternatives to Ritalin. Fortunately, there are several alternatives available to treat ADHD. Here are the 4 most commonly used and effective Ritalin alternatives: 

Changes in Diet: 

There have been several studies and researches which show that a change in diet can help control ADD and ADHD symptoms. 

Experts recommend that individuals inflicted with ADD and ADHD must take a diet high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. 

Foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids and protein include lean meat, beans, eggs, and cheese. Fish, such as salmon and tuna, and nuts are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. 

Both Omega-3 fatty acids and protein encourage the production of norepinephrine and dopamine. 

Diet Exclusion: 

As reported by the Mayo Clinic, a study done by the Food Standards Industry in the United Kingdom has shown a connection between food additives and hyperactive behavior. 

It is believed that certain elements, such as dyes, sugar, caffeine, should be completely excluded from the diet to decrease the intensity of ADHD symptoms associated with the disorder. 

Some experts also believe that individuals suffering from ADD or ADHD are more responsive to food additives, such as caffeine, sugar, and dyes, and hence they should be excluded from the diet. 

Changes in Lifestyle: 

Changes in environment and lifestyle can prove to be helpful in controlling ADD and ADHD symptoms. 

Any type of behavioral change requires a well-balanced ADHD treatment plan, including educational, social, and mental therapy. 

Some of the different types of therapies that can be used for ADHD are: behavioral therapies; psychotherapy; parenting skill training; social skills training; behavioral interventions; and support groups. 

Providing a more stable and predictable environment may also help in decreasing the stimuli experienced by an ADHD sufferer. 

In some cases, children with an attention disorder just require some counseling support. At times, the entire family may need assistance, because the condition affects the family as a whole. 

Alternative Medications for ADHD: 

Ritalin is perhaps the most popular medication for ADHD; however, you may consider other stimulants as alternatives to Ritalin. 

Other stimulant medications for ADHD include similar ingredients, but they vary in how long the medicine lasts or how the medicine is released (instant release versus extended release). 

Some of the alternative medications for ADHD are Daytrana, a methylphenidate patch; Methylin, available in chewable tablets and liquid form; Adderall XR; Desoxyn; Vyvanse; and Focalin. 

There are two non-stimulant medicines approved for the treatment of ADHD. They are Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine ER).

You may also consider using ADHD supplements such as Listol, ADD-care, Learning Factors, and Focus Formula,  to alleviate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children.