Does Cannabis Use Cause ADHD-Type Inattention?

PostedSeptember 11, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 11, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Cannabis use and ADHD-type symptoms is a topic of growing concern, as cannabis can lead to attention disruption and cognitive changes that resemble the symptoms of ADHD. Many individuals who use cannabis may experience difficulties with focus, memory, and sustained attention, which are also common in those with ADHD. However, the underlying causes of these symptoms are different, and understanding the distinction is important for accurate diagnosis.

Cannabis use affects the brain’s cognitive functioning, leading to cognitive slowing and temporary inattention. These effects can lead to inattention confusion, where individuals may find it harder to focus, remember information, or stay on task. While cannabis can cause these cognitive impairments, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that involves persistent attention difficulties and impulsivity, rather than short-term effects from substance use.

Common Symptoms: Cannabis Use and ADHD-Type Symptoms

Attention Disruption

Both cannabis use and ADHD-type symptoms can cause attention disruption. However, in cannabis use, this disruption is often related to the temporary effects of the substance, whereas ADHD-related attention issues are long-standing and not substance-induced.

Cognitive Slowing

Cognitive slowing is a common effect of cannabis, causing slower thinking, delayed responses, and difficulty processing information. This can be confused with the inattention seen in ADHD, but it is generally a temporary effect of cannabis use.

Inattention Confusion

The inattention confusion caused by cannabis use can resemble ADHD symptoms, but in ADHD, inattention is persistent across various situations and is not related to drug use.

By recognising the differences between cannabis use and ADHD-type symptoms, healthcare professionals can make an accurate diagnosis and provide the appropriate treatment, whether the issue is related to substance use or a neurodevelopmental condition like ADHD.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Rule-outs for other conditions.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.