Does caffeine help with ADHD?

Because of its stimulating effects, caffeine has sparked interest as a potential aid for managing ADHD.

Stimulant medications, commonly used to treat ADHD, work by increasing dopamine levels—a chemical linked to attention and feelings of reward. 

Caffeine binds to the adenosine receptors in your brain which are in charge of your sleep and arousal. This means whilst it decreases the ability to sleep, it increases motivation, learning and pleasure. 

This means caffeine may amplify dopamine’s effects in the brain, leading some to wonder whether it could help ease ADHD symptoms in adults.