You may perhaps wonder if you’ve got the option to use caffeine for ADHD.
However, too much caffeineor caffeine in combination with ADHD medscould lead to side effects, particularly in children.
People can react to caffeine in very individual ways, too.
Verywell / Danie Drankwalter
Read on to learn more about the relationship between caffeine and ADHD, including the associated risks and benefits.
Reduced Blood Flow
Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor (constricts the blood vessels which reduces blood flow).
ADHD medicines are known to target the central nervous system to improve concentration.
However, caffeine is not recommended instead of prescription ADHD medications.
At most, it might be considered for use in combination with medication.
As mentioned previously, ADHD medications increase dopamine production too.
Because children are smaller in body size, it takes less caffeine to impact their functioning.
A healthcare provider can also help you determine the proper intake of caffeine.
For children, their diet, medication, and caffeine consumption should be discussed with a medical professional.
Both caffeine and prescription medication have addictive components, which can increase focus and risk for side effects.
The amount of caffeine will determine whether it will help or hurt.
It may be best to primarily consume teas and decaffeinated coffee since they contain significantly less caffeine.
For this reason, it’s important to monitor your caffeine intake to see how it affects you.
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