ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It’s a neurodevelopmental condition that both children and adults may experience.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR), there are different types of ADHD, but core symptoms may include:
- Difficulty paying attention: overlooking details, finding organization challenging, and being easily distracted
- Impulsivity: acting without considering possible consequences, tending not to wait for your turn, and speaking out of turn
- Hyperactivity: having a hard time staying quiet, fidgeting, and displaying restlessness
These symptoms may significantly impact daily functioning, social relationships, and quality of life. They may also make it hard to focus on school lessons or work assignments, which may result in mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
While medications and behavioral interventions are the first-line treatment for ADHD symptoms, new complementary alternatives include nootropics.
What are nootropics and how do they work?
Nootropics are “smart drugs” or “cognitive enhancers.” They can be natural or synthetic substances taken orally to help improve cognitive performance.
Research on nootropics is still few and limited, but a 2022 research review indicated that nootropics may enhance cognitive functions — including attention, memory, creativity, and motivation — by:
- boosting the brain’s supply of glucose and oxygen, which facilitates its function
- protecting the brain from harmful substances, including free radicals that promote inflammation
- supporting the production of essential proteins and genetic material in brain cells
- enhancing healthy membrane functions in brain cells
- preventing clumping or aggregation of substances in the brain
Do nootropics help ADHD?
While nootropics have gained popularity as potential ADHD remedies, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for managing ADHD symptoms is limited and inconclusive. Here is what experts know so far.
Natural nootropics for ADHD
Natural nootropics are generally plants and herbs that affect brain functioning.
An extensive 2022 systematic review of 256 papers on the effects of natural nootropics found that extracts from Bacopa monnieri (water hyssop), a creeping herb plant, may improve verbal communication capabilities in children and adolescents with ADHD. Specifically, the plant extract may improve word and sentence repetition and logical memory.
The review also found that French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) may significantly improve attention in children with ADHD. However, researchers did not find indications of the same effect in adults.
A smaller 2021 review of six studies found that caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine, also considered natural nootropics, may improve attention, impulse control, mind-wandering, problem-solving, and mood in those with ADHD.
Other herbs and plants sometimes marketed as natural nootropics may include:
- gotu kola extract
- bacopa extract
- marigold extract
- mango extract
- peppermint essential oil
- creatine
- Panax ginseng
- Ginkgo biloba
Even if natural, using these substances in any form may result in unwanted side effects. For one, supplements are not regulated in the United States as medications are, which may lead to potential toxicity and other adverse health effects. Also, these nootropics may interact with and reduce the effect of some prescription drugs.
It is highly encouraged that you consult with a healthcare professional before adding these to your routine.
More research is needed to explore how natural nootropics may affect ADHD symptoms long term.
Synthetic nootropics for ADHD
Synthetic nootropics are made in a lab and are not derived from plants. Most of these nootropics require a prescription and are not manufactured strictly for ADHD symptoms.
A 2019 review lists these three options as the most commonly used synthetic nootropics:
- Methylphenidate: It boosts the levels and activity of dopamine in the brain. This, in turn, may reduce symptoms like hyperactivity and low impulse control. This nootropic is FDA approved to use for ADHD. Brands may include Ritalin, Concerta, and Methylin.
- Modafinil: It treats excessive tiredness but may also help improve memory and attention, which could benefit those with ADHD. Modafinil is not FDA approved for ADHD, but some healthcare professionals may use this nootropic as an off-label aid. Brands may include Provigil, Modavigil, and Modalert.
- Piracetam: Originally used to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia, this nootropic may improve memory and concentration, which may be helpful in ADHD management. It helps make brain neurotransmitter systems more active and keep neuron receptors healthy. It is not FDA approved in the United States for any specific use.
Prescription nootropics should only be used under the direction and management of a doctor. These drugs may be associated with mild to severe side effects, such as:
- sleep disturbances
- nausea and vomiting
- mood changes
- blurry vision
- dizziness
- weight changes
- serious heart problems
- stroke
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