Highlights
- Nootropics are substances that may improve cognitive functions like memory and focus, but only prescription ADHD medications are FDA-approved for this purpose.
- Over-the-counter and natural nootropics may provide small benefits, but results are inconsistent, and research quality is low.
- All nootropics come with risks — including side effects and lack of regulation — so medical supervision is essential.
If you live with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), then you likely experience difficulties with cognitive functioning. For example, you might have a hard time remembering things or get easily distracted. This is because of the way ADHD affects your brain, and often is not congruent with intelligence.
Nootropics are gaining popularity as a way to improve cognitive functioning — to think faster and more accurately. Here’s a detailed guide to these substances, including which nootropics can be helpful for ADHD and what considerations to keep in mind before trying them.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics, also known as “cognitive enhancers,” are any type of substance that can increase your cognitive ability. They include both prescription medications as well as natural supplements.
Some of the cognitive skills that nootropics can help with include:
- Memory
- Focus and concentration
- Learning ability
- Problem-solving
- Creativity
- Motivation
These substances have gained in popularity, especially in recent years, for their alleged ability to make your brain work better. The nootropics industry is estimated to grow to nearly $20 billion by 2034. They’re popular with people who live with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions that affect cognitive performance. But many people take them for an extra cognitive boost as well, even if they’re otherwise healthy.
Although they’re popular, the American Medical Association (AMA) discourages healthy people (who don’t live with ADHD or any other condition) from using nootropics, especially prescription ones.
Nootropics can include different types of substances, including:
- Prescription Medications: These mostly include stimulant medications that are used to help people who live with ADHD, narcolepsy, or any other condition that can impair cognitive functioning.
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Other synthetic medications under the “nootropics” umbrella can be obtained over-the-counter.
Natural Remedies: Some supplements and natural remedies are considered nootropics because some research has shown that they could be helpful for memory and other cognitive functions.
It’s important to keep in mind that while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does approve certain prescription medications for improving cognitive functions, other non-prescription strategies can also help support cognitive health. And these should only be used as prescribed by a medical professional. Make sure you see a healthcare professional to decide which treatment is right for you; you can start ADHD care at MEDvidi to get help online.
How Nootropics May Help ADHD
The way ADHD affects the brain can significantly impair cognitive functioning. Some cognitive skills that people with ADHD tend to have a hard time with include:
- Sustaining attention
- Using working memory effectively
- Organization and planning
- Impulse control
- Emotional regulation
Nootropics, including but not limited to prescription ADHD medications, may help people manage these and other types of cognitive impairment that can often come along with ADHD.
Instead of directly releasing brain chemicals, many nootropics work by supporting the brain’s overall health. They may improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, protect brain cells from damage, and help the brain use energy more efficiently. Most nootropics don’t show immediate effects after a single dose and usually need to be taken consistently over time.
Effectiveness of Nootropics for ADHD
Research has generally found that nootropics can help improve cognitive functioning. But some research has had mixed results, and the quality of the findings may not be very high for some substances.
If you’re thinking about taking nootropics for ADHD, it’s essential to look into the research supporting the exact substance you’re considering. Some substances that are marketed as “nootropics” may not have any evidence base at all.
Nootropics that are prescription, FDA-approved ADHD medications — especially stimulants — have the strongest evidence base. These medications have been repeatedly shown, by high-quality research, to improve cognitive function in people with ADHD.
No other nootropic has been able to prove its effectiveness for ADHD. They may be helpful, but they’re generally not as helpful as prescription ADHD medication, as well as may have side effects. More long-term, larger-scale studies are needed to be able to say whether any of the other nootropics are definitely helpful for people with ADHD.
Types of Nootropics for ADHD
There are several types of nootropics that can help manage ADHD. The most effective type — and the only one that’s regulated and approved for ADHD treatment — is prescription medication. When it comes to other supplements, there is limited research on their effectiveness.
Prescription ADHD Nootropics
All medications that are used specifically to treat ADHD are technically considered nootropics. This is because they’re all designed to decrease ADHD symptoms, which inherently improves cognitive functioning.
The most effective type of prescription medication for ADHD is stimulants, including:
These medications have repeatedly been found to be very effective for helping people with ADHD improve their cognitive skills. They’re all approved by the FDA to treat ADHD.
It’s important to note that these medications should only be taken as prescribed by a medical professional. Some people who don’t live with ADHD take these medications as a “cognitive enhancer,” but doing so without a prescription is dangerous (and illegal).
Other prescription medications that may be used to improve cognitive functioning in people with ADHD include:
- Atomoxetine (Strattera): A non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for ADHD
- Modafinil (Provigil): A stimulant that is not approved for ADHD, but is sometimes used off-label for this purpose
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin): An antidepressant medication that may be prescribed off-label for ADHD treatment.
Over-the-Counter Synthetic Nootropics
These are synthetic substances you can get over the counter that may help reduce ADHD symptoms (and consequently improve cognitive functioning). Examples include:
- Piracetam: This is a man-made GABA-derivative substance that may help improve cognitive functions like memory.
Some research[1] has found that it may be helpful as an adjunctive treatment (alongside prescription stimulants) for ADHD. - Noopept: Noopept is another synthetic substance that’s based on the chemical structure of piracetam (and has similar effects).
- Citicoline: This is a naturally occurring substance in humans that has been created synthetically to be put into supplements.
Some research[2] has found that, combined with caffeine, citicoline may improve cognitive performance. Butother studies[3] have found that it has no effect for people with ADHD. - Alpha-GPC: Like citicoline, this is another compound that’s naturally occurring in the brain (but is created synthetically for supplements).
A study[4] found that it was no more effective than caffeine for ADHD, but greatly increased jitteriness. - L-Theanine: This substance can be naturally found in tea, but is also synthetically created. Combined with caffeine, L-theanine
may improve overall cognitive performance[5] in people with ADHD.
It’s important to note that none of these substances are FDA-approved for treating ADHD, although research has found that some of them can be helpful for cognitive function.
In addition, keep in mind that these substances are uncontrolled and unregulated, which comes with additional risks. You should always talk to a medical provider before taking one of these substances.
Natural Nootropics & Supplements
Lastly, there are natural supplements and remedies that may help improve cognitive functioning for people with ADHD. The research behind nootropic plants is generally low, and the results may be subtle, but individual responses can vary.
Again, however, these nootropics should never replace prescribed ADHD medication. Also, just because something is “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean it is safe for everyone, so consult with your healthcare provider to learn more.
Examples of natural nootropics for ADHD include:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These natural acids are often found in fatty fish, but they can also be taken as a supplement. Some research has found that omega-3 supplementation might be helpful for ADHD. But
a large systematic review[6] determined that no findings have been significant enough to support this claim. - Ginkgo Biloba: Research has found that the extracts from the ginkgo biloba tree may be a helpful add-on to methylphenidate for ADHD. It’s significantly less effective than methylphenidate, although it may come with fewer side effects, and it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before combining medication with any supplements.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and other products. A systematic review found that caffeine may reduce both hyperactivity and inattention in people (children) with ADHD. But it can also cause uncomfortable side effects like insomnia and anxiety.
- Bacopa Monnieri: This is a flowering plant also known as water hyssop that’s used in Ayurvedic medicine. A
small India-based study[7] found that it could help reduce ADHD symptoms (restlessness) in children with ADHD. - Rhodiola Rosea: This plant
may have anti-fatigue properties[8] (which is something that people with ADHD often battle against). This can make it helpful for some people with ADHD, although no research specifically shows that. - Panax Ginseng: Also called Korean red ginseng;
one small Korean study[9] found that taking panax ginseng for 8 weeks significantly improved ADHD symptoms in children. - L-Tyrosine: This natural supplement, as well as other amino acids like taurine, GABA, and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), may be
considered supplementary treatments[8] for children with ADHD.
Safety, Risks, and Side Effects
Many nootropics, when taken appropriately, are generally safe for use. However, all of them come with the potential for side effects. In rare cases, people may have severe negative reactions. It’s important to consult with a medical provider when starting to take any nootropic, even if it’s “natural.”
- Prescription Nootropics: Prescription nootropics are generally safe when taken as prescribed and under medical supervision. But they can come with some side effects like insomnia and increased heart rate. Always tell your provider about side effects, and never stop taking prescription medication suddenly.
- Over-the-Counter Synthetic Nootropics: These substances aren’t controlled or regulated by any official government body. This can make these types of nootropics dangerous, because there is no guidance around ingredient purity, dosage, and drug interactions. Some synthetic nootropics can be “spiked” with other unregulated ingredients.
- Natural Nootropics: Many people assume all natural supplements are completely safe, but this is a mistake. Natural nootropics can also come with significant side effects, some of which can be dangerous or even deadly. Many of them are generally safe, but it’s important to consult with a provider to avoid interactions and serious side effects. These types of nootropics are also not regulated by the FDA.
You should be especially careful with non-prescribed nootropics if you’re:
- A child
- Pregnant or planning to be pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Live with other health conditions like heart or kidney problems
- Taking other medications that may interact, including ADHD medications
Untreated ADHD can lead to long-term challenges, but treatment choices should also be made with safety in mind and after carefully weighing potential risks. It is recommended to get support and supervision of a medical professional when taking nootropics.
Combining Nootropics With Other ADHD Treatments
Most of the research doesn’t look at supplements or synthetic nootropics as stand-alone therapies, but as adjuncts — meaning they’re studied as add-ons to prescription ADHD medication.
For example, some natural remedies, like ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng, have been studied in combination with methylphenidate (Ritalin). Results suggest that while these supplements may provide additional improvement in cognitive function, they are far less effective than medication alone.
However, combining treatments without supervision can be very risky. Supplements and synthetic nootropics are not regulated by the FDA, which means the dosage, purity, and safety data aren’t reliable. There’s also very little research about how they interact with prescription medications.
“Stacking” different nootropics — a practice that’s sometimes encouraged in online communities — can be dangerous. It can increase the risk of side effects, drug interactions, or even toxicity. If you’re considering combining nootropics with your current ADHD treatment, it’s essential to do so only under the guidance of a medical professional.
Pros and Cons of Natural and Over-the-counter Nootropics for ADHD
Pros | Cons |
May improve focus, memory, and overall mood | Research results are inconsistent across substances |
Some are derived from natural sources like plants or amino acids | Many lack strong, high-quality research evidence |
Accessible over the counter without a prescription | Non-prescription options are unregulated and may contain unsafe additives |
Can sometimes be used as add-ons to stimulant ADHD medications | Possible side effects, including insomnia, jitteriness, or interactions with other medications |
Offer more options for people who can’t tolerate stimulant medication | Generally not as effective as FDA-approved ADHD medication |
How to Choose the Right Nootropic
Choosing a nootropic for ADHD can be tricky. Because many substances are unregulated, and the research quality varies widely, you need to be very careful. Here are some detailed steps to make the process safer:
- Talk to your doctor before starting any nootropic. This is the most important step. A medical professional can help you sort through which substances have actual evidence behind them and whether they’re safe in combination with your existing medications. Do not skip this step.
- Don’t combine supplements with prescription medication without approval. Even “natural” supplements can interfere with how your body metabolizes stimulants or non-stimulants. It can also increase side effects.
- Start with one at a time. If you add multiple new nootropics all at once, you won’t know which one is responsible for changes in your focus, energy, or side effects. Introducing just one allows you to monitor its impact clearly.
- Avoid unregulated online “stacks.” Many websites sell pre-made blends of nootropics that claim to improve focus or creativity. These products often don’t list exact dosages, may contain hidden stimulants, and are not tested for purity. Taking them can be risky, especially if you’re also on prescription medication.
Next Steps
Nootropics are thought to improve cognitive functioning, and some of them may be helpful add-ons for ADHD. But only certain prescription ADHD medications are FDA-approved. Other options — whether synthetic or natural — have mixed evidence. Never replace prescribed treatment with these options.
If you want to explore safe, effective ADHD treatment options, connect with a medical provider at MEDvidi.
FAQs
Are nootropics like Adderall?
Adderall is a prescription stimulant, which is the most effective and well-researched type of nootropic for ADHD. Non-prescription nootropics don’t work in the same way.
What nootropic is most like Adderall?
Prescription stimulants such as Ritalin are the most similar alternatives to Adderall. No supplement or over-the-counter nootropic has the same effects.
What is the best supplement for ADHD and focus?
Omega-3s, ginkgo biloba, and caffeine have shown some potential, but none are as effective as prescription stimulants.
How long do nootropics stay in your system?
It depends on the type. Stimulants like Adderall may last 4 to 12 hours, while supplements may stay in your system for a shorter time.
Are nootropics addictive?
Prescription stimulants can be habit-forming if misused. Most natural and synthetic nootropics aren’t addictive, although that doesn’t always mean they’re safe.
How long do nootropics take to work?
Prescription stimulants usually work within hours. Most supplements may take weeks of regular use before showing any noticeable effect.
Can you take nootropics while pregnant?
It’s not recommended. Both prescription and non-prescription nootropics can pose risks in pregnancy and should only be considered with medical supervision.
