What Does MRS (MR Spectroscopy) Show in ADHD?

PostedOctober 6, 2025

UpdatedOctober 6, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, or ADHD MR spectroscopy, reveals differences in brain metabolites among people with ADHD, especially involving glutamate and GABA. These neurochemical findings help us understand how the balance of excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain may be altered in ADHD, potentially contributing to symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation.

Large meta‑analyses of ¹H‑MRS studies indicate that children with ADHD often show elevated levels of glutamate (or the combined glutamate‑glutamine measure, “Glx”) in the medial prefrontal cortex. This suggests a shift toward more excitatory signaling. Separately, several studies report reduced GABA levels, particularly in the striatum of unmedicated children, implying decreased inhibitory control. However, results vary; not all studies show strong differences in all regions (e.g. anterior cingulate cortex showed no GABA difference in one study).

Common Symptoms & How These Insights Help

Here are symptoms tied to what the MRS findings reveal and why they matter for treatment:

Impulsivity & Difficulty Inhibiting Reactions

With reduced GABA in inhibitory circuits like the striatum, people with ADHD may struggle to suppress impulsive behaviour or delay responses. Medication can help by boosting inhibitory tone or balancing neurotransmitter levels. Behavioural strategies (such as CBT) can support learning to pause and consider before acting.

Over‑arousal, Restlessness & Emotional Reactivity

Elevated glutamate/Glx may contribute to heightened brain excitability, leading to feelings of restlessness or difficulty calming down. Therapies aimed at emotion regulation, self‑soothing, or mindfulness can help, and medications that modulate excitatory neurotransmission may also be effective.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations informed by the latest imaging and spectroscopic research.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to neurochemical differences.

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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.