Some researchers suggest that low levels of dopamine in the brain may contribute to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). That said, there isn’t enough evidence that this is a direct cause.
Underlying issues with the brain are likely to be the underlying cause of ADHD.
No one knows exactly what causes a person to have ADHD, but some researchers have looked at a neurotransmitter called dopamine as a possible contributor to ADHD.
Learn more about the relationship between ADHD and dopamine below.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. People with ADHD have difficulty maintaining attention or have episodes of hyperactivity that interfere with their daily lives.
People sometimes refer to it as ADD, but ADHD is the medically accepted term.
ADHD is common. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates
ADHD usually begins in childhood. It often continues through adolescence and sometimes into adulthood. The American Psychiatric Association estimates around 2.5 percent of adults have ADHD.
Children and adults with ADHD typically have more difficulty focusing than people who don’t have ADHD. They may also act more impulsively than their peers. This may make it difficult for them to perform well in school or work as well as other activities.
Dopamine allows us to regulate emotional responses and take action to achieve specific rewards. It’s responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward.
Scientists have
Some researchers believe this difference is because neurons in the brains and nervous systems of people with unmedicated ADHD have higher concentrations of proteins called dopamine transporters. The concentration of these proteins is known as dopamine transporter density (DTD).
A higher DTD results in a lowering of dopamine levels in the brain, which may be a risk factor for ADHD. Just because someone has high levels of DTD, however, doesn’t mean they have ADHD. Doctors will typically use a holistic review to make a formal diagnosis.
One of the first studies that looked at DTD in humans was published in 1999. The researchers noted a
Since this early study, research has continued to show an association between dopamine transporters and ADHD.
A 2015 study looked at research showing that the dopamine transporter gene, DAT1, may influence ADHD-like traits.
Researchers surveyed 1,289 healthy adults. They asked about impulsivity, inattention, and mood instability, which are the three factors that define ADHD.
But the study didn’t show any association with ADHD symptoms and gene abnormalities other than mood instability.
DTD and genes such as DAT1 aren’t definite indicators of ADHD. Most clinical studies have included only a small number of people. More studies are needed before firmer conclusions can be drawn.
Additionally, some researchers argue that other factors contribute more to ADHD than dopamine levels and DTD.
A 2013 study found that the amount of gray matter in the brain might contribute to ADHD more than levels of dopamine.
With these somewhat conflicting findings, it’s hard to say whether levels of DTD always indicate ADHD.
Nonetheless, the research showing an association between ADHD and lower levels of dopamine, as well as higher levels of DTD, suggests that dopamine could be a possible treatment for ADHD.
Medications that increase dopamine
Many medications for treating ADHD work by increasing dopamine and stimulating focus. These medications are typically stimulants. They include amphetamines such as:
These medications increase dopamine levels in the brain by targeting dopamine transporters and increasing dopamine levels.
Some people believe that taking a high dosage of these medications will lead to greater focus and attention. This is not true. If your dopamine levels are too high, this can make it difficult to focus.
Other treatments
In 2003, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of nonstimulant drugs to treat ADHD.
Additionally, doctors recommend behavior therapy for both the person who has ADHD as well as their loved ones. Behavior therapy typically involves going to a board certified therapist for counseling.
Scientists aren’t certain what causes ADHD. Dopamine and its transporters are just two potential factors.
Researchers have
Several lifestyle and behavioral factors may also contribute to ADHD. They include:
- exposure to toxic substances, such as lead, during infancy and childbirth
- maternal smoking or drinking during pregnancy
- a low birth weight
- complications during childbirth
The association between ADHD, dopamine, and DTD is promising. Several effective medications used to treat the symptoms of ADHD work by increasing the impact of dopamine in the body. Researchers are also still investigating this association.
That being said, dopamine and DTD aren’t the only underlying causes of ADHD. Researchers are investigating new possible explanations, such as the amount of gray matter in the brain.
If you have ADHD or suspect you do, talk with a doctor. They can give you a proper diagnosis and start you on a management plan that may include medications and other methods that increase dopamine.
You can also do the following to increase your dopamine levels:
- Try something new.
- Make a list of small tasks and complete them.
- Listen to music you enjoy.
- Exercise regularly.
- Try meditation or yoga.
