Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults. Symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Although the exact cause of ADHD is unknown, it’s thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research has shown, however, that high testosterone levels may increase symptoms of ADHD, and not low T levels as you may be thinking.
Testosterone: A Hormone Found In Men and Women
Testosterone is a sex hormone produced in the testicles. It is also produced in women, but to a lesser degree than in men. Testosterone plays an important role in both male and female sexual development.
In males, testosterone helps to develop the male reproductive system and reproductive organs such as the testes (testicles) and prostate gland, as well as hair growth patterns on the face and body that are characteristic of males after puberty. During puberty, testosterone levels increase rapidly until they reach adult levels at about age 18 or 19.
In women, testosterone has an important role in libido and energy. Females with high testosterone will notice undesirable side effects like body hair growth, deepened voice, acne and weight gain.
Testosterone Has An Effect On Behaviour and Cognition
Testosterone is a sex hormone, but it also plays an important role in our thinking and behavior. Testosterone influences how you act, feel and perform in sports, school, professional environments, and in bed.
Testosterone is associated with aggression and aggression-related behaviors. Testosterone levels are often associated with these because they affect the brain’s ability to control impulses. In addition, testosterone can increase the desire for risk-taking. The testosterone level in your body can also impact your mood (anger or irritability) or self-esteem (confidence).
Therefore, it becomes evident that testosterone can also impact ADHD symptoms. High testosterone can alter brain circuits, especially those relating to the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is particularly deficient in people with ADHD. Research has shown that both men and women with ADHD tend to have higher blood serum testosterone levels than their non-ADHD counterparts.
Some ADHD Medication May Affect Testosterone Levels
Some drugs used to reduce the symptoms of ADHD may result in lower levels of testosterone. Methylphenidate and Adderall are most commonly used to treat this disorder. Adderall is an amphetamine, and these compounds have been thought to reduce the level of testosterone in patients who use them regularly. However, more research is needed to ultimately conclude if its effects on hormone levels are strong enough to cause issues in the long term.
Methylphenidate, on the other hand, is not an amphetamine. Its effects seem to be much milder than those of Adderall and are therefore preferred by many doctors when treating ADHD patients. Research has shown that used in the right dosage for short-term treatment, methylphenidate is safe and will not result in a significant reduction of T levels.
Low Testosterone Can Lead To Different Cognitive and Behavioral Disorders
We’ve explored that symptoms of ADHD can get worse in people with higher testosterone levels. However, low testosterone also poses a risk for the development of other cognitive and behavioral disorders. Men with low testosterone are more likely to develop depression and anxiety. Low T levels can also result in fatigue and low sex drive, which can worsen these disorders.
Estrogen Can Improve ADHD In Women
The symptoms of ADHD are known to be exacerbated by high testosterone levels in men and women. However, another hormone plays an important role in women’s health and emotional behaviors. In fact, symptoms of ADHD in women with low estrogen can be greatly reduced with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
In addition to improving cognitive function and reducing hyperactivity, HRT with estrogen has been shown to improve mood, fatigue, and sleep patterns. While these benefits are also seen in patients without ADHD, it has been found that women with this cognitive disorder improve their symptoms greatly, resulting in a better quality of life.
Conclusion
As you can see, hormone levels have a lot to do with ADHD both in men and women. High testosterone levels have been linked to worsening ADHD symptoms, but low testosterone levels can also cause different cognitive and emotional disorders. Some medications for treating ADHD can potentially lower testosterone, but more research on this matter is needed. Getting your blood tested to check for hormone levels and speaking to your doctor about your results is an important step in your ADHD treatment. Your doctor can guide you through further testing and evaluate the need to modify your current treatment.
Key Takeaways
- ADHD symptoms can become worse in people with high testosterone levels.
- High and low testosterone can cause disordered conduct and cognitive disorders in men.
- Women with low estrogen levels and ADHD can benefit from HRT to improve their symptoms and quality of life.
- Getting your blood tested for hormonal imbalances is important in treating your ADHD and monitoring your current treatment.