How Do Low Dopamine and Norepinephrine Affect Attention in ADHD? 

One of the most well-established biological explanations for ADHD centres on low dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. These two neurotransmitters are critical for maintaining attention, managing concentration, and supporting vigilance core areas of difficulty for individuals with ADHD. When their levels are too low, especially in regions like the prefrontal cortex, the brain struggles to regulate focus and filter distractions effectively. 

Dopamine and Sustained Focus 

Dopamine is responsible for motivation, reward sensitivity, and task initiation. In ADHD, low dopamine availability means the brain’s internal reward system does not activate properly during routine or repetitive tasks. This makes it difficult to maintain interest and sustain focus, especially when the task is not immediately stimulating. As a result, individuals may start tasks but not finish them, struggle with organisation, or constantly seek external stimulation. 

Norepinephrine and Concentration 

Norepinephrine plays a complementary role by regulating arousal and alertness. It helps the brain stay on task and shift attention appropriately. When norepinephrine is too low, individuals with ADHD may appear distracted or daydreamy, not because they are not trying, but because their brain is not maintaining the necessary vigilance to stay engaged. This contributes to attention lapses, missed details, and difficulty following instructions. 

Together, low dopamine and norepinephrine impair the brain’s ability to maintain steady attention, making daily tasks more effortful and frustrating. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to explore how boosting dopamine and norepinephrine can improve attention 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.