Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental condition. Because cocaine is a stimulant, it may have a similar effect to ADHD medications. However, the drug can also cause severe side effects.
Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is prone to misuse and addiction. Although it may affect ADHD symptoms in a similar way to ADHD medications, cocaine is not a viable treatment option for the condition. It can also cause severe side effects, such as heart attacks, strokes, and seizures.
This article looks at the link between cocaine use and ADHD and explores the risks associated with the drug.
As cocaine is a stimulant drug, it can cause feelings of increased energy and euphoria in people without ADHD.
However, according to a 2021 article, in people with ADHD, cocaine may have a calming effect. Cocaine increases dopaminergic transmission, which is dysfunctional in ADHD.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in pleasure, motivation, and learning. This means that cocaine may help people with ADHD manage symptoms of impulsivity, restlessness, and inattentiveness.
The drug affects certain brain structures, including the:
- accumbens and ventral pallidum, which form the reward system
- amygdala and hippocampus, which are responsible for working memory
- orbitofrontal and subcallosal cortices, which play a role in volition
- prefrontal cortex and cingulate gyrus, which are important for executive control
Cocaine inhibits the reuptake of “pleasure chemicals” called dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, meaning that more of these chemicals remain circulating in the blood.
The resulting effects in people without ADHD include euphoria and increases in arousal, vigilance, and alertness. However, individuals with ADHD may experience a reduction in the executive and behavioral difficulties that can occur with the condition.
Research suggests people with ADHD might be more susceptible to cocaine use disorder and other substance use disorders.
In a
- a history of anxiety and depression
- childhood adversities
- socioeconomic status
When considering cocaine specifically, some studies indicate that the prevalence of cocaine use among adults with ADHD is about 26%, with 1 in 10 individuals developing cocaine use disorder.
Help is available
Seeking help for addiction may feel daunting or even scary, but several organizations can provide support.
If you believe that you or someone close to you is showing signs of addiction, you can contact the following organizations for immediate help and advice:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 800-662-4357 (TTY: 800-487-4889)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
There are many reasons why people with ADHD may “self-medicate” with cocaine. However, the primary reason is that the effects of cocaine on the brain may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with ADHD.
As a stimulant, cocaine acts in a similar way to prescription medications on the systems that do not function as they should in people with ADHD. Cocaine causes a surge in dopamine, making up for the lack of the chemical.
Cocaine use in ADHD may not produce the classic “rush” and high energy state that people without the condition often experience if they take it. Instead, those with ADHD may find that they experience more focus and calm.
However, a person should never take cocaine as a treatment for ADHD symptoms because of the risks associated with this illegal drug.
Cocaine is a substance that is prone to misuse. Use of the drug over an extended time can also have negative health outcomes, including:
- psychosis
- increased risk of stroke and seizures
- inflammation of the heart muscle
- significant weight loss
Taking cocaine can even be fatal in some cases.
Drugs, alcohol, and other substances may provide quick relief from the symptoms of ADHD by temporarily helping calm the mind.
For example, cocaine may increase attention in the short term, while cannabis can provide mild sedation and euphoria.
In addition to ADHD symptoms, other risk factors can increase a person’s likelihood of developing drug or alcohol use disorders. For example, people with ADHD may experience cooccurring mental health problems, such as depression, which can also increase the risk of substance use.
Taking ADHD medications does not increase the likelihood of substance use. In fact, the opposite might be true. A 2024 study found that those who took stimulant medications for ADHD were less likely to develop a substance use disorder than those who did not. These findings suggest that treating ADHD effectively could help prevent substance misuse.
There is no single effective treatment for ADHD. People with this condition may use various strategies to manage their symptoms. These strategies can
- Medications: Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) are established ADHD medications. Doctors may also recommend nonstimulant medications that have a longer lasting effect.
- Therapies: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and child behavioral therapy can help strengthen positive behaviors and reduce unhelpful ones. Caregiver training in behavior management involves a therapist working with parents or caregivers to help them manage a child’s behaviors.
Individuals with ADHD may also benefit from training to help develop their skills in organization and time management, which may help them complete tasks and meet deadlines more easily.
Learn more about medication and natural remedies for ADHD.
It is important for anyone experiencing symptoms of ADHD to seek a diagnosis from a qualified doctor. A doctor can rule out other potential causes of the symptoms and put an appropriate treatment plan in place if needed.
Without treatment, people with ADHD may find it difficult to manage their symptoms, which might lead to an increased risk of developing substance use disorders as a coping strategy.
An ADHD diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment of the person’s symptoms, their family history, and the presence of any other health conditions.
Although the specific approach may vary among doctors, diagnostic protocols generally include:
- A diagnostic interview and medical history: This standardized set of questions covers a broad range of topics and determines how many of the diagnostic criteria apply to the individual. The interview can also help doctors determine whether the individual may have a psychiatric condition that could mimic ADHD.
- Information from other individuals: The doctor may also interview family members or significant others to fully understand the individual’s symptoms and behaviors.
- Symptom checklists: The standardized behavior rating scales from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) allow a comparison between certain factors among people with ADHD and those without. Although they are not diagnostic in themselves, these scales can help with the overall evaluation process.
- Additional testing: Depending on the findings of their assessments, a doctor may use additional psychological or learning disability tests during diagnosis. Neuropsychological testing may occur if a person receives a referral to a psychologist.
- Medical examination: A thorough physical examination can help rule out other medical causes of symptoms, such as thyroid problems or seizures.
Learn more about untreated ADHD in adults.
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Cocaine may mirror the effects of prescription stimulants on ADHD symptoms because it causes a similar rush of dopamine. However, there are significant risks associated with taking cocaine, which is an illegal drug.
Research indicates that people with ADHD are also more likely than others to develop substance use disorders.
It is important for anyone experiencing ADHD symptoms to seek a diagnosis and treatment. Treating ADHD typically involves both medication and therapy. These interventions can help an individual manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of developing a dependence on cocaine or other substances.