Does Dopamine/Norepinephrine Impact ADHD Autism Overlap?

PostedSeptember 30, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 30, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

ADHD and autism are both neurodevelopmental disorders, and many individuals experience an ADHD-autism overlap, where symptoms of both conditions are present. Research suggests that dopamine and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters that play key roles in brain function, attention, and emotional regulation, are central to understanding the comorbidity between ADHD and autism. Their impact on neurodevelopment may help explain shared symptoms such as difficulties with focus, social interaction, and sensory processing.

Dopamine and the ADHD-Autism Overlap

Dopamine is critical for motivation, reward processing, and regulating attention. In ADHD, dopamine dysfunction is one of the primary drivers of inattention, impulsivity, and poor executive functioning. For individuals with autism, dopamine also plays a role in social communication and reward sensitivity. The ADHD-autism overlap may be explained by dopamine dysregulation, as difficulties with motivation, social interaction, and attention are common in both conditions. Imbalances in dopamine can lead to challenges in processing social cues and maintaining focus, two issues shared by individuals with ADHD and autism.

Norepinephrine and the ADHD-Autism Overlap

Norepinephrine is involved in regulating arousal, alertness, and emotional responses. In ADHD, low norepinephrine levels contribute to inattention and impulsivity, while in autism, norepinephrine dysregulation can lead to heightened sensory sensitivities and difficulties with emotional regulation. This overlap of symptoms in ADHD and autism can be attributed to how norepinephrine affects both cognitive and emotional processing, further complicating the treatment and management of individuals with both conditions.

Conclusion

Both dopamine and norepinephrine play crucial roles in the ADHD-autism overlap by influencing attention, focus, social behaviour, and emotional regulation. Addressing these neurotransmitter imbalances through medication and therapy can help manage symptoms more effectively for individuals experiencing both conditions.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to learn more about how dopamine and norepinephrine impact the ADHD-autism overlap.

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.