How Do Stimulants Increase Both Dopamine and Norepinephrine in ADHD Treatment?

PostedSeptember 29, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Stimulants are the most prescribed medications for treating ADHD, and they work by increasing the levels of two key neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals play crucial roles in regulating focus, attention, and impulse control. By boosting their levels, stimulants help manage the symptoms of ADHD effectively.

The two primary types of stimulants used in ADHD treatment are methylphenidate and amphetamine. Both work in slightly different ways to achieve a similar effect, enhancing the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Understanding their individual mechanisms can shed light on how they help improve ADHD symptoms.

Methylphenidate Mechanism vs. Amphetamine Mechanism

Methylphenidate mainly blocks dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake, while amphetamines increase their release and also inhibit reuptake.

Methylphenidate

This stimulant works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. Essentially, it prevents these neurotransmitters from being absorbed back into the nerve cells, leaving more available for communication between neurons. This results in a higher concentration of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, helping to improve attention and reduce hyperactivity.

Amphetamines

Amphetamine-based medications, such as Adderall, have a slightly different mechanism. They not only inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine but also stimulate their release from the nerve cells. This leads to a more substantial neurotransmitter boost, making it easier for individuals with ADHD to focus, stay organised, and regulate their impulses.

Benefits of Stimulants in ADHD Treatment

Improved Focus

Both dopamine and norepinephrine are involved in attention regulation, and their increased activity enhances focus, making it easier for individuals with ADHD to stay on task.

Better Impulse Control

By regulating dopamine levels, stimulants can help reduce impulsive behaviour, a hallmark symptom of ADHD.

Enhanced Executive Function

The increase in norepinephrine activity helps improve other executive functions, such as decision-making and organisation.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how stimulants can help manage ADHD symptoms effectively.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Dopamine and norepinephrine systems.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

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.