Caffeine and ADHD: How Does Caffeine Affect ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. It is commonly found in children and can last into adulthood. About 5%, or 8 million American adults, have ADHD, with many of them only discovering their diagnosis in adulthood. (Some studies reveal that only about 20% of adults with ADHD know they have it.) There are many treatments available, including caffeine for ADHD. While caffeine is inappropriate for children, studies show it may positively affect adolescents and adults with ADHD. Let’s talk about caffeine and ADHD and how caffeine gummies can help. 

What is ADHD?

Sometimes the brain develops differently, leading to difficulty concentrating, focusing, and excessive energy. This condition is called ADHD; as we said before, it’s very common. Symptoms of adult ADHD may look like this:

1. Carelessness or difficulty being detail-orientated.

2. Failing to finish tasks before starting a new task.

3. Has a hard time being/staying organized.

4. Difficulty focusing and prioritizing.

5. Habitually losing everyday items like keys or phones.

6. Generally forgetful.

7. Feeling restless or constantly on edge.

8. Has a hard time listening and may speak out of turn.

At the level of brain chemicals, ADHD is characterized by an imbalance in the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the frontal cortex. The frontal cortex is the part of your brain responsible for rational thought and executive functions. 

Is Caffeine Good for ADHD?

It may sound surprising, but science shows caffeine helps manage ADHD symptoms. ADHD is often treated with stimulant medications. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that promotes the body’s dopamine production and also impacts norepinephrine. In addition to enhancing physical performance, caffeine has profound effects on mood, memory, attention, alertness, and cognitive performance. 

Can You Take Caffeine with ADHD Medication?

As a central nervous system stimulant, caffeine could potentially interact with your ADHD medications. Many medications for ADHD are classified as stimulants, such as amphetamines. Stimulants like these can affect your heart rate and blood pressure. There could be interactions and side effects, from combining caffeine and medication, especially from large amounts of caffeine. Talk to your doctor about your medications and caffeine intake; your answer will be based on your health, caffeine tolerance, and medication types and amounts. 

Benefits of Caffeine for ADHD

While caffeine and ADHD are still being studied, scientists are excited about the possibilities caffeine offers as a safer, effective treatment for ADHD. Animal studies, in particular, are promising, with many benefits being shown for caffeine and ADHD. 

1. Increase Attention

Issues with dopamine and the frontal cortex are part of ADHD. This study found caffeine helps regulate dopamine in hyperactive rats’ frontal cortex. Findings like this point to caffeine’s already established ability to support attention extending to those with ADHD. Attention, or a lack of it, is a key feature of ADHD, and this study points to promising new treatments. 

2. Improve Memory 

The study above also found that memory was improved in hyperactive rats after they were given caffeine. Caffeine is known to help memory, along with overall cognitive function. It appears it can help support and alleviate some of the forgetfulness characteristic of ADHD, including supporting short-term and spatial short-term memory. Several other studies suggest caffeine supports memory, especially for females and adolescents. 

3. Supports Learning

The use of caffeine also supports learning. According to this study, treatment with caffeine restored non-associative learning in hyperactive female rats. 

4. Fewer Side Effects

The best news about these animal studies on ADHD symptoms and caffeine is that there was no alteration to test subjects’ body weight or blood pressure. Some ADHD stimulant medications can alter or suppress your appetite. This can lead to not eating, even if your body is hungry and needs nutrition. While there are ways around this, such as timing when you take your medication, caffeine does not have this side effect. 

Stimulant medications can also raise blood pressure. Usually, this is fine for most people, but it can pose some risks if you have cardiac disease or hypertension. Researchers did not see a rise in blood pressure during their caffeine studies. 

The Convenience of Caffeine Gummies

If you’re considering trying caffeine for ADHD symptoms, Mocca Shot caffeine gummies are an easy way to start. First, with a Mocca Shot, you’re getting caffeine, supportive herbs, and functional foods that work together to give you clean, steady energy with no crash. Caffeine gummies are easy—open a pouch, and you’re good to go. Gummies can go wherever you go; Mocca Shots are non-melting and pocket-proof! Try one of Seattle Gummy’s delicious Mocca Shot caffeine gummies today.