Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Caffeine is sometimes considered for use in Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) based on its pharmacological action as a central nervous system stimulant. Its mechanism involves antagonism of adenosine receptors, leading to increased dopaminergic and noradrenergic activity—neurotransmitter systems that are also targeted by standard ADHD medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines. However, the evidence supporting caffeine’s efficacy for treating ADD/ADHD is modest and far less robust than for approved stimulant medications.

Some small-scale studies and anecdotal reports have indicated that caffeine may improve attention and alertness in individuals with ADHD, particularly in children. For example, a few controlled trials in the 1970s and 1980s explored caffeine as a potential alternative treatment, with mixed results—some showing mild improvements in attention and behavior, while others found no significant benefit. The effect sizes were generally small, and caffeine was less effective than prescription stimulants.

Current clinical guidelines do not recommend caffeine as a primary or adjunct treatment for ADHD due to inconsistent findings and concerns about tolerance, dependency, and side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and gastrointestinal disturbance. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some limited evidence for its use, caffeine is not considered a validated or standard treatment for ADD/ADHD. The overall quality and quantity of evidence are low, corresponding to a rating of 2 on the evidence scale.

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