Does Dopamine/Norepinephrine Dysfunction Change Over Time in ADHD? 

Yes, dopamine and norepinephrine dysfunction in ADHD can be influenced by the brain’s neurodevelopment and environmental factors. While these neurotransmitter imbalances are present from early childhood, their impact on symptoms and brain function often changes across the lifespan. 

Longitudinal Changes and Brain Maturation 

In children with ADHD, dopamine and norepinephrine systems are typically underactive, particularly in regions like the prefrontal cortex and striatum, which are responsible for attention, self-regulation, and reward processing. This underactivity contributes to classic symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and short attention span. As children grow, these brain areas gradually mature, and so does neurotransmitter function. 

By adolescence and adulthood, some individuals experience a natural improvement in symptoms, potentially reflecting increased dopamine receptor density and more efficient norepinephrine signalling. However, for others, the dysfunction persists or shifts, manifesting more subtly as executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, or low motivation. 

ADHD Over Time: Persistence vs Resolution 

Not everyone “outgrows” ADHD. In fact, for many, the dopamine/norepinephrine dysfunction remains into adulthood, though symptoms often present differently. Hyperactivity may decrease, but inattention, poor planning, and difficulty with sustained effort can persist, showing that while the nature of dysfunction may shift, the underlying neurochemical imbalance is still influential. 

Understanding these longitudinal changes helps tailor treatment across different stages of life. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to explore how dopamine and norepinephrine dysfunction in ADHD can change over time.

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.