Research suggests that dopamine levels may be a factor in the development of ADHD. Medications that target dopamine receptors often relieve symptoms. However, evidence of a cause-and-effect link is limited.

The causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have not been established yet, but researchers have looked at a neurotransmitter (brain messenger) called dopamine as a possible contributor.

Children and adults with ADHD typically have more difficulty focusing than people who do not have ADHD. They may also act more impulsively than their peers. This may make it difficult for them to perform in school or work as well as function in other areas of life.

Dopamine is involved in several key functions, including mood, working memory, attention, and decision making. It helps you regulate emotional responses and take action to achieve specific outcomes. Dopamine is also involved in feelings of pleasure and reward.

A malfunction of dopamine signaling, paired with other factors, may affect these functions, resulting in symptoms like impulsivity, inattention, and difficulty making decisions, among others.

Some research in animals and humans suggests that dopamine activity may be different in people with ADHD compared to those without ADHD.

One possible reason is associated with dopamine transporters (DAT), which modulate dopamine concentrations in the brain by moving dopamine into and out of neurons (brain cells). When these transporters do not work as required or there are more or fewer DAT than needed, dopamine levels may decrease, leading to common ADHD symptoms.

Older research suggests that neurons in the brains and nervous systems of people with unmedicated ADHD have higher concentrations of dopamine transporters. The concentration of these proteins is known as dopamine transporter density (DTD).

Studies in rodents also indicate a potential correlation between DAT and ADHD, mediated by genetic variations.

However, more studies, especially in humans, are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and link between genes, dopamine levels, DAT, and ADHD symptoms.

A strong case for the link between dopamine and ADHD symptoms is the fact that some ADHD medications work directly on dopamine levels and relieve ADHD symptoms.

ADHD drugs that act on dopamine are considered stimulants and include amphetamines like:

These medications target dopamine transporters, blocking the reabsorption of dopamine in the brain, which increases the levels of this neurotransmitter. Higher dopamine levels often lead to ADHD symptom relief, particularly concentration and energy challenges.

As part of ADHD management efforts, medical professionals may also recommend lifestyle changes that have a potential impact on dopamine levels and ADHD symptoms. Some ways to increase dopamine levels include:

  • trying something new as often as possible
  • making a list of small tasks and completing them to get a sense of accomplishment
  • listening to music you enjoy
  • exercising regularly
  • trying meditation and yoga

Dopamine levels may be a contributing factor to ADHD symptoms. More research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of this relationship.

However, some medications that increase levels of dopamine are known to relieve some of the ADHD symptoms.