Are There Cardiovascular Risks from Increasing Norepinephrine in ADHD?

PostedSeptember 30, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Increasing norepinephrine levels is a common treatment strategy for ADHD, especially with medications like atomoxetine (a non-stimulant) and stimulants such as amphetamine-based drugs. While these medications can significantly improve focus, attention, and impulse control, they may also pose potential cardiovascular risks. Norepinephrine plays a key role in regulating the body’s fight-or-flight response, and its elevation can affect heart rate and blood pressure, raising concerns about cardiac safety in individuals with ADHD.

Norepinephrine and Cardiovascular Effects

Norepinephrine acts on the sympathetic nervous system, causing blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. For individuals with ADHD, especially those with a history of heart conditions or hypertension, medications that increase norepinephrine could potentially trigger cardiovascular issues, such as high blood pressure or tachycardia (elevated heart rate). While these effects are typically mild for most individuals, they can be more pronounced in some, especially with higher doses or prolonged use.

Cardiac Safety and Monitoring

Healthcare providers closely monitor cardiovascular health when prescribing norepinephrine-increasing medications. For individuals with existing heart conditions or those at risk of high blood pressure, non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine may be preferred as they generally have less impact on cardiovascular function compared to stimulant medications. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is essential for anyone taking these medications to ensure cardiac safety and manage any potential risks.

Conclusion

While increasing norepinephrine in ADHD treatment can be effective, it does carry some cardiovascular risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Regular monitoring and working with a healthcare provider can help minimise these risks and ensure safe and effective treatment.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to explore the cardiovascular risks of norepinephrine in ADHD treatment.

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.