Are There EEG Signatures of Dopamine and Norepinephrine Dysfunction in ADHD?

PostedSeptember 29, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a widely used tool in neuroelectrophysiology, capturing brain wave patterns that provide insights into neural activity. In recent years, researchers have begun to explore whether the EEG could serve as a biomarker for dopamine and norepinephrine dysfunction in ADHD. Given that these neurotransmitters play essential roles in attention, emotional regulation, and executive function, identifying EEG signatures linked to their dysregulation could help with more accurate diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.

Brain Waves and Dopamine/Norepinephrine Dysfunction

EEG records brain activity in the form of brain waves, which vary in frequency depending on the brain’s state of activity. Different patterns of brain waves are linked to different neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and norepinephrine. Research suggests that ADHD is often characterised by abnormal brain wave patterns, such as an excess of theta waves (which are slower and linked to daydreaming or inattentiveness) and a deficiency in beta waves (which are faster and associated with alertness and focused attention).

EEG as a Potential Biomarker for ADHD

The correlation between dopamine and norepinephrine dysregulation and these specific brain wave patterns has led to the idea that EEG signatures could provide a non-invasive method to identify neurotransmitter dysfunction in ADHD. For instance, altered brain wave patterns may reflect impaired regulation in areas of the brain controlled by dopamine and norepinephrine systems, such as the prefrontal cortex. Identifying these patterns could serve as a valuable biomarker to diagnose ADHD or predict treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

While still an emerging field, EEG signatures tied to dopamine and norepinephrine dysfunction hold promise as biomarkers for ADHD, potentially offering more objective and accessible diagnostic tools in the future.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to learn more about EEG and its potential role in identifying dopamine and norepinephrine dysfunction in ADHD.

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.