Caffeine as a Potential Treatment for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, impacting individuals across various age groups. According to the CDC, ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. Nowadays, the mainstay of therapy is stimulant medications, which target neurotransmitters like noradrenaline and dopamine, exhibiting positive responses in the majority of patients. However, concerns regarding adverse effects promote exploration into alternative therapeutic approaches. Recent studies conducted in animal models suggest that caffeine demonstrates efficacy in managing ADHD symptoms. Caffeine acts by inhibiting adenosine receptors A1 and A2a, increasing cholinergic and dopaminergic transmission, which improves attention and cognitive functions. In this review, Studies examining caffeine's effects on main symptoms of children with ADHD were reviewed.