Have any supplements been studied for ADHD?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Several supplements have been studied for ADHD, including fish oil, which may improve symptoms due to its omega-3 fatty acids, and Ginkgo biloba, which may enhance blood flow and neurotransmitter signaling. Additionally, L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, and phosphatidylserine have shown potential benefits by influencing energy production and neurotransmitter activity in the brain.

    Fish oil contains the omega-3 fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which have well-supported anti-inflammatory properties and can regulate neurotransmitter and immune function, and as a result, may improve ADHD.[1]

    Ginkgo biloba increases blood flow in the human brain and the signaling of serotonin and norepinephrine in rats, which may contribute to its mild, positive effect on ADHD.[2][3]

    Both L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine are present in brain cells and play an important role in energy production — it’s possible that by increasing mitochondrial activity in neurons and promoting dopamine signaling, carnitine could improve symptoms of ADHD.[4]

    Supplementing with phosphatidylserine (a phosphorus-containing lipid) seems to positively affect ADHD,[5] which is likely due to its important role in adjusting receptor, enzyme, and ion channel activity, and consequently, affecting the signaling of most neurotransmitters in the brain.

    Have any supplements been studied for ADHD? - Examine