Unable to take ADHD medication

[Nextchapter4me]

I was recently diagnosed with ADHD and because of my heart condition (cardiomyopathy), I can not take any type of medication for ADD or ADHD. Any suggestions on natural alternatives?

[EQGal8]

I take a supplement from Brain MD called “attention support” that is extremely helpful for me. I take 3 capsules every morning. It helps me focus and executive functioning and self-control. I also take some (additional) Magnesium later in the day. I don’t take any adhd prescription meds currently but I’m not opposed to them. My 9 year old takes adderol and it really helps him.

[Gettingittogether]

Finding a supplement is not the answer. You will need to run your supplement by the doctor who doesn't want you to take a stimulant. Supplements can be bad for the heart as well. A supplement is just an unregulated medicine.

[STEM_Dad]

While stimulant medications might be ruled out, there are some non-stimulant medications that are approved to treat ADHD. You should discuss non-stimulant ADHD medications with your doctor. Some non-stimulants might still agitate the heart (which I think is a rare side effect of the one I'm taking, atomoxetine, aka Strattera). But one in particular was originally developed as a blood pressure medication, and was discovered to help treat ADHD as well ... guanfacine (known under the brand name Intuniv).

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As was already mentioned, you should talk to your doctor before starting on any supplements. There is a chance that certain ingredients in supplements can agitate the heart. Single ingredient supplements, like perhaps magnesium, might be safer to try. (Magnesium has been used to help lower blood pressure, so would be inadvisable for someone with low blood pressure.) It has been said to help reduce stress and anxiety. Many people don't get an adequate amount of it in their diet, and so might need a supplement.

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There are, however, non-medication and non-supplement treatments and interventions which studies have shown can have a positive effect on ADHD:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet

• Get an adequate amount of sleep (if you struggle with insomnia or sleep disturbances, talk to your doctor about possible treatments and the possibility of a sleep study)

• Exercise regularly (any amount and any type of exercise can have a positive effect on ADHD, even just walking, but some studies suggest that forms of exercise which utilize coordination and challenge balance can have even more positive effect; e.g. yoga, martial arts, cross training, sports)

• Manage stress and anxiety (I can attest that anxiety makes my ADHD symptoms more pronounced, so my ADHD treatment started with managing my anxiety)

• Practice some form of mindfulness meditation (there are many types of meditation; it doesn't have to be a particular type; a very basic type of mindfulness is just breathwork, which can at least help reduce feelings of anxiety)

[Nextchapter4me in reply to STEM_Dad]

Thank you for your encouragement