Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Supplements studied for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Overview
SupplementDEX indexes 21 supplements for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) across 56 studies.
Zinc (WA 72; medium effect size, high evidence, very high trust) may slightly reduce ADHD symptoms in children, especially alongside stimulant medicines and when zinc levels are low. Magnesium (WA 72; medium effect size, high evidence, very high trust) evidence is unclear: one study in magnesium-deficient children reported improved hyperactivity, while magnesium plus vitamin D in others without deficiency showed minimal benefit.
L-Carnitine (WA 64; medium effect size, medium evidence, high trust) has insufficient evidence per available summaries. Caffeine (WA 40; very low effect size, high evidence, medium trust) does not reduce ADHD symptoms in children, and Ginkgo (WA 40; very low effect size, high evidence, medium trust) underperformed methylphenidate in one trial. See the heatmap and evidence reviews below for all 21 supplements.
Effect graph
Relevant supplements
Relevant supplements sorted by DEX Score.
| Zinc | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Magnesium | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| L-Carnitine | ★★★★★ | Medium |
| Phosphatidylserine | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Theanine | ★★★★★ | Low |
| SAMe | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Panax Ginseng | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Ashwagandha | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Ginkgo | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Flaxseed Oil | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Caffeine | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Iron | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| American Ginseng | ★★★★★ | Low |
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Alpha-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
| Bacopa | ★★★★★ | Very Low / None |
Studies
Find individual evidence reviews for supplements sorted by DEX Score.
20 supplements for , and rated at least stars. All purchase bands. No minimum star filter.
MagnesiumView supplement →
Consider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if magnesium supplements help children with ADHD.
- Children with ADHD often have lower magnesium levels in their blood and hair.
- One small study found that giving magnesium supplements to children with ADHD who had low magnesium levels improved their hyperactivity and magnesium status after 6 months.
- Another small study gave magnesium plus vitamin D to children without low magnesium and found slight improvement in emotional issues but no change in attention or hyperactivity.
- More research is needed.
Browse 5 studies·2 meta-analyses
RCTThe effect of vitamin D and magnesium supplementation on the mental health status of attention-deficit hyperactive children: a randomized controlled trial2021n=33
A study of 66 children with ADHD found that vitamin D (50,000 IU/ week) and magnesium (6 mg/kg/day) led to a significant reduction in emotional problems, peer problems and total difficulties but did not have a significant effect on conduct problems or hyperactivity after 8 weeks. Longer term treatment may lead to further improvements.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 6 mg/kg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 33
- Ages
- 6–12
MetaMagnesium status and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A meta-analysis2019
A meta-analysis of 7 observational studies found children with ADHD had 0.105 mmol/L lower serum magnesium than controls, though heterogeneity was high (I²=96%).
- Population
- Healthy adults
MetaSignificantly lower serum and hair magnesium levels in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder than controls: A systematic review and meta-analysis2019
A meta-analysis of 12 studies found children with ADHD had significantly lower serum/plasma magnesium (Hedges' g −0.55 to −0.78) and hair magnesium (g −0.71) vs controls.
- Population
- Children/adolescents
Controlled trialAssessment of magnesium levels in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)1997n=116
A study of 116 children aged 9–12 found magnesium deficiency in 95%, most frequently in hair (77.6%) and serum (33.6%), with lower magnesium correlating with ADHD symptom severity.
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 116
- Ages
- 9–12
Controlled trialThe effects of magnesium physiological supplementation on hyperactivity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Positive response to magnesium oral loading test1997n=25
A 6-month study of 50 hyperactive children aged 7–12 with magnesium deficiency found ~200 mg/day magnesium significantly reduced hyperactivity and increased hair magnesium vs untreated controls.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 200 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 25
- Ages
- 7–12
ZincView supplement →
Consider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking zinc by mouth may slightly help reduce some ADHD symptoms in children.
- Research shows that children with ADHD often have lower zinc levels, which might make stimulant medicines work less effectively.
- In several small studies, taking zinc—usually 10 to 40 mg daily for 6 to 12 weeks—led to small improvements in overall ADHD symptoms, especially when used with commonly prescribed medicines like methylphenidate.
- Zinc seemed to help most when children had low zinc or higher body weight.
- However, experts say more research is needed, and zinc alone is not recommended as a replacement for standard ADHD treatments.
Browse 7 studies·2 meta-analyses
MetaClinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce2022
WFSBP/CANMAT 2022 guidelines rated acetyl-L-carnitine as not recommended for ADHD based on Grade A evidence from meta-analyses and RCTs.
MetaThe effect of zinc supplementation in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials2022n=489
A meta-analysis of six RCTs in 489 children found zinc supplementation significantly reduced overall ADHD symptom scores (SMD −0.62) but not hyperactivity or inattention subscores separately.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 489
RCTDouble-blind, placebo-controlled study of zinc sulfate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder2004n=202
In 400 children with ADHD, 150 mg/day zinc sulfate for 12 weeks reduced hyperactivity, impulsivity, and impaired socialization versus placebo but not attention-deficit scores; full response rates were 28.7% versus 20%.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 150 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 202
- Avg age
- 9.61±1.7
RCTZinc sulfate as an adjunct to methylphenidate for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children: a double blind and randomized trial [ISRCTN64132371]2004n=44
In 44 children aged 5–11 with ADHD, adding 55 mg/day zinc sulfate to methylphenidate for 6 weeks improved parent and teacher ADHD rating scales versus methylphenidate plus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Dose
- 55 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 44
- Ages
- 5–11
ObservationalRelationships between serum free fatty acids and zinc, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a research note1996n=45
In 48 children with ADHD versus 45 controls, mean serum zinc was 60.6 versus 105.8 µg/dL and serum free fatty acids were significantly lower in ADHD, with a significant correlation between zinc and FFA in patients.
- Dose
- 105.8 mcg/day
- Population
- Healthy adults
- Participants
- 45
Clinical trialZinc deficiency in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder1996
A clinical study investigated zinc status in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and its potential relationship to symptom severity.
- Population
- Children/adolescents
RCTDoes hair zinc predict amphetamine improvement of ADD/hyperactivity?1990n=18
In 18 boys with ADHD, baseline hair zinc levels correlated with parent and teacher ratings of greater dextroamphetamine benefit over placebo in a one-month crossover trial.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 18
- Ages
- 6–12
L-CarnitineView supplement →
Consider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- There is not enough evidence to determine if L-carnitine has any benefit for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Browse 4 studies
RCTAcetyl-L-carnitine as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: a placebo-controlled trial2011n=40
A 6-week RCT in 40 children with ADHD found acetyl-L-carnitine (500–1500 mg/day) plus methylphenidate did not improve parent or teacher ADHD ratings versus methylphenidate plus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 500 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 40
- Ages
- 7–13
RCTA double-blind, parallel, multicenter comparison of L-acetylcarnitine with placebo on the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in fragile X syndrome boys2008
A 1-year multicenter RCT in 56 boys with fragile X syndrome and ADHD found L-acetylcarnitine (20–50 mg/kg/day) reduced hyperactivity and improved social behavior versus placebo on Conners' and Vineland scales.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 20–50 mg/kg
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Ages
- 6–13
RCTAcetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a multi-site, placebo-controlled pilot trial2007n=112
In 112 adults with ADHD, acetyl-L-carnitine 1,500 mg twice daily did not significantly improve ADHD symptoms versus placebo over the trial period.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 16 weeks
- Dose
- 1500 mg 2×/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 112
- Ages
- 5–12
RCTEfficacy of carnitine in the treatment of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder2002
In children with ADHD, carnitine supplementation was evaluated for safety and efficacy, but controlled evidence for symptom improvement versus placebo was limited in available trial data.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
Fish OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is unclear whether taking fish oil helps with ADHD symptoms in children or adults.
- Some early studies found fish oil improved attention and behavior in children aged 7 to 13 years, sometimes combined with other supplements like evening primrose oil or phosphatidylserine.
- Larger reviews found that fish oil does not generally improve ADHD symptoms rated by parents, although taking it for 4 months or longer may help a bit.
- In adults with ADHD or autism, taking higher doses of fish oil for a short time showed small improvements in attention.
- Current medical guidelines do not recommend fish oil alone as a treatment for ADHD in children.
- More research is needed to understand if certain types or combinations of supplements work better for some people.
Browse 6 studies·2 meta-analyses
MetaOmega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids for Core Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials2023n=1,789
A meta-analysis of 22 studies including 1,789 subjects found that omega-3 PUFAs did not significantly improve ADHD core symptoms compared to placebo. However in studies using a treatment duration at least 4 months, omega-3 PUFAs were significantly more effective than placebo. Neither higher EPA dosage or high EPA/DHA ratio was found to improve ADHD. Long-term supplementation may have potential benefits. [10719]
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Participants
- 1,789
MetaClinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce2022
WFSBP/CANMAT 2022 guidelines rated acetyl-L-carnitine as not recommended for ADHD based on Grade A evidence from meta-analyses and RCTs.
RCTFish oil supplementation may improve attention, working memory and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in adults with autism spectrum disorder: a randomised crossover trial2022n=26
Randomized crossover trial assessing whether fish oil supplementation improves attention, working memory, and ADHD symptoms in adults with autism spectrum disorder. In adults with autism spectrum disorder, fish oil (5.2 g/day, 2 x 4 week crossover design) may improve attention and working memory and ameliorate ADHD symptoms in those with comorbid ADHD. [10720]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Dose
- 5.2 g/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 26
RCTCorrelation between changes in blood fatty acid composition and visual sustained attention performance in children with inattention: effect of dietary n-3 fatty acids containing phospholipids2008n=18
A 3-month study of 60 participants (children aged 8-13 years with impaired visual sustained attention performance) assigned subjects either placebo, 250 mg/day EPA + DHA esterified to PL-n-3 (300 mg/day phosphatidylserine) or only fish oil. Only the groups receiving fish oil experienced increases in EPA (1.5-2.2-fold), DPA (1.2-fold) and DHA (1.3-fold) however improvements in attention were limited to PL-n-3. [10717]
- Duration
- 3 months
- Dose
- 250 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 18
- Ages
- 8–13
RCTEffect of supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids and micronutrients on learning and behavior problems associated with child ADHD2007n=104
A 15-week study found that fish oil (400 mg) + evening primrose oil (100 mg) improved parent ratings of core ADHD symptoms, hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention in 132 Australian children aged 7 to 12 year with scores >= 2 SD above the population average of the Conners ADHD Index. [10721]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 15 weeks
- Dose
- 400 mg
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 104
- Ages
- 7–12
RCTA randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effects of supplementation with highly unsaturated fatty acids on ADHD-related symptoms in children with specific learning difficulties2002n=41
A 12-week study including 41 children aged 8-12 years with specific learning difficulties and above-average ADHD ratings found that HUFA supplementation led to significant improvements in cognitive problems and general behaviour problems compared to placebo. [10722]
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 41
- Ages
- 8–12
PhosphatidylserineView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Phosphatidylserine may help children with ADHD by improving attention when taken at 200–300 mg daily for about 2–4 months.
- It doesn’t seem to improve hyperactivity or other ADHD symptoms much.
- Some studies combined it with fish oils EPA and DHA.
Browse 3 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaPhosphatidylserine for the Treatment of Pediatric Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis2021n=344
A meta-analysis of 3 pediatric ADHD RCTs (n=216) found phosphatidylserine 200–300 mg/day reduced inattention (ES 0.36, p=0.01) but not hyperactivity-impulsivity significantly.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 300 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 344
- Ages
- ≤18
RCTThe effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2014n=19
In 36 children with ADHD, soy phosphatidylserine 200 mg/day for 2 months improved ADHD symptoms, short-term auditory memory, and inattention versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 2 months
- Dose
- 200 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 19
- Ages
- 4–14
RCTSafety of phosphatidylserine containing omega3 fatty acids in ADHD children: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial followed by an open-label extension2013n=40
In 40 children, phosphatidylserine with omega-3 for 30 weeks was safe with no significant adverse changes in blood pressure, weight, or growth versus placebo.
- Duration
- 30 weeks
- Dose
- 300 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 40
Vitamin DView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if vitamin D helps children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- A small study found that children with low vitamin D levels who took vitamin D supplements along with their usual ADHD medicine had some improvement in symptoms in the evening, but not in the morning or overall.
- Because of this and other early research, experts suggest that children with ADHD who do not get enough vitamin D from food or sunlight might try vitamin D supplements as an additional treatment.
- The typical dose recommended for these children is between 1500 and 4000 IU per day.
Browse 2 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaClinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce2022
WFSBP/CANMAT 2022 guidelines rated acetyl-L-carnitine as not recommended for ADHD based on Grade A evidence from meta-analyses and RCTs.
RCTEffect of vitamin D supplementation as adjunctive therapy to methylphenidate on ADHD symptoms: A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial2018n=62
In 62 children aged 5–12 with ADHD on methylphenidate, adding 2000 IU/day vitamin D for 8 weeks improved evening ADHD symptoms versus placebo on the WPREMB scale.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 2000 IU/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 62
- Ages
- 5–12
AshwagandhaView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if ashwagandha alone helps with ADHD.
- One small study in children found that a herbal mix including ashwagandha and several other herbs taken three times daily for 4 months improved attention, thinking, and impulse control better than placebo.
- Whether ashwagandha alone is helpful is unknown.
Browse 1 study
RCTA compound herbal preparation (CHP) in the treatment of children with ADHD: a randomized controlled trial2010n=80
In 120 children with ADHD over 4 months, a compound herbal preparation including ashwagandha improved TOVA attention scores versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 months
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 80
MelatoninView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Some small studies in children with ADHD who take stimulant medication show that melatonin, 3–5 mg daily for up to 3 months, may help with insomnia.
- However, while it can improve sleep, it does not seem to lessen ADHD symptoms themselves.
Browse 2 studies
RCTEffects of chronotherapy on circadian rhythm and ADHD symptoms in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and delayed sleep phase syndrome: a randomized clinical trial2021n=51
A 3-week RCT of 51 adults with ADHD and delayed sleep phase found 0.5 mg/day melatonin advanced dim-light melatonin onset by 1h28 and reduced self-reported ADHD symptoms vs placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 3 weeks
- Dose
- 0.5 mg/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 51
- Ages
- 18–55
RCTSleep hygiene and melatonin treatment for children and adolescents with ADHD and initial insomnia2006
A study of 27 stimulant-treated ADHD children found sleep hygiene helped 5 cases; among non-responders, 5 mg melatonin further reduced sleep-onset latency by 16 minutes (effect size 0.6) without changing ADHD symptoms.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 5 mg
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Ages
- 6–14
Panax GinsengView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Panax ginseng alone has not been tested for ADHD.
- One small study showed that children taking a combination of ginseng and omega-3 fatty acids daily for 12 weeks had better ADHD symptoms and improved reaction times.
- However, it is not known if the improvements were from the ginseng, omega-3, or both together.
- The study did not compare with a placebo.
Browse 2 studies
RCTEffect of Omega-3 and Korean Red Ginseng on Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: An Open-Label Pilot Study2020n=40
A 12-week open-label RCT in 40 children with ADHD found omega-3 plus Korean red ginseng extract improved ADHD symptom and cognitive test scores without psychotropic drugs.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 12 weeks
- Dose
- 500 mg/day omega-3 + 3 mg/day KRG
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 40
- Ages
- 6–12
RCTEffects of Korean red ginseng extract on behavior in children with symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial2014n=37
An 8-week double-blind RCT in children with ADHD symptoms found 2 g/day Korean red ginseng extract reduced DSM-IV symptom scores versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 2 g/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 37
- Ages
- 6–15
SAMeView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is not clear if taking SAMe by mouth helps with ADHD.
- One small study showed that taking SAMe in increasing doses over 4 weeks might reduce symptoms in adults compared to no treatment.
Browse 1 study
RCTS-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) in adults with ADHD, RS: preliminary results from an open trial1990
In adults with ADHD, SAMe showed preliminary benefit on attention symptoms in an early randomized study, though evidence remained very limited.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Adults
TheanineView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- L-theanine may help children with ADHD by improving thinking skills and sleep.
- A single dose of L-theanine helped some thinking abilities, and adding caffeine helped with attention during tests.
- In boys with ADHD, taking L-theanine 200 mg twice daily for 6 weeks increased the amount of restful sleep and reduced nighttime activity.
- More research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Browse 2 studies
RCTEffects of L-theanine-caffeine combination on sustained attention and inhibitory control among children with ADHD: a proof-of-concept neuroimaging RCT2020
A crossover RCT of 5 boys with ADHD found L-theanine plus caffeine improved cognition and inhibitory control on neuroimaging tasks, though caffeine alone worsened inhibitory control.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 2.5 mg/kg
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Ages
- 8–15
RCTThe effects of L-theanine (Suntheanine®) on objective sleep quality in boys with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2011n=98
An RCT of 98 boys with ADHD found that 400 mg/day L-theanine for 6 weeks significantly improved sleep percentage and sleep efficiency on actigraphy versus placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Dose
- 400 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 98
- Ages
- 8–12
CaffeineView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Caffeine intake is not able to reduce symptoms of ADHD in children.
Browse 6 studies
RCTObjectively measured hyperactivity--II. Caffeine and amphetamine effects1985
In 15 hyperactive children, amphetamine 1.6–5 mg twice daily and 300–600 mg/day caffeine reduced commission errors and parent-rated symptoms in high-scorers, though high-dose caffeine caused side effects.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 1.6–5.0 mg
- Population
- Children
Controlled trialThe acute effects of caffeine on evoked response, vigilance, and activity level in hyperkinetic children1979
In 17 hyperkinetic children given placebo, low, or high caffeine doses, evoked-response changes were significant but behavioral vigilance and activity measures showed only non-significant dose-related trends.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children
RCTMethylphenidate vs dextroamphetamine vs caffeine in minimal brain dysfunction: controlled comparison by placebo washout design with Bayes' analysis1978n=29
In 29 children with minimal brain dysfunction, methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine were significantly better than placebo and caffeine on six ratings; only 1 of 26 drug responders did best on caffeine.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children
- Participants
- 29
Controlled trialCaffeine versus methylphenidate and d-amphetamine in minimal brain dysfunction: a double-blind comparison1975
In a double-blind crossover trial, methylphenidate and d-amphetamine significantly improved minimal brain dysfunction symptoms versus placebo and were significantly superior to pure caffeine.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children
Controlled trialMethylphenidate and caffeine in the treatment of children with minimal brain dysfunction1975
In 8 boys with minimal brain dysfunction, 20 mg/day methylphenidate controlled impulsivity and hyperactivity better than 160 mg/day caffeine, which was superior to decaffeinated coffee and placebo.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Dose
- 160 mg/day
- Population
- Children
Caffeine as a substitute for Schedule II stimulants in hyperkinetic children1973
An early report exploring caffeine as a substitute for Schedule II stimulants in hyperkinetic children; available abstract text provides no outcome data beyond the title.
- Population
- Children
Flaxseed OilView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- A small study in children with ADHD found that taking flaxseed oil (providing 200 mg of alpha-linolenic acid) together with 25 mg of vitamin C, twice a day, improved attention, self-control, impulsivity, and restlessness compared with before treatment.
- However, the study did not include a control group, so it is not clear if the improvements were due to flaxseed oil, vitamin C, or the combination of the two.
Browse 1 study
Clinical trialSupplementation with flax oil and vitamin C improves the outcome of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)2005
In children with ADHD, flax oil plus vitamin C raised RBC membrane fatty acids and significantly reduced total hyperactivity scores on the ADHD rating scale versus control.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
GinkgoView supplement →
Reconsider purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It’s unclear if ginkgo helps with ADHD.
- In one study, children who took ginkgo daily (80-120 mg) for 6 weeks had less symptom improvement compared with those who took a common ADHD medicine, methylphenidate.
- Taking ginkgo along with methylphenidate did not improve symptoms more than the medicine alone.
- A small study suggested a supplement combining ginkgo and American ginseng might help some children, but more research is needed.
- Current medical guidelines do not recommend ginkgo for treating ADHD.
Browse 5 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaClinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce2022
WFSBP/CANMAT 2022 guidelines rated acetyl-L-carnitine as not recommended for ADHD based on Grade A evidence from meta-analyses and RCTs.
RCTGinkgo biloba in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. A randomized, placebo-controlled, trial2015
In children with ADHD on methylphenidate, adding ginkgo 80–120 mg/day for 6 weeks significantly improved parent-rated inattention scores versus placebo adjunct.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Dose
- 120 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
RCTA double-blind placebo controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba added to risperidone in patients with autistic disorders2012
In autistic disorder patients on risperidone, adding ginkgo extract significantly improved ABC behavioral scores versus risperidone plus placebo over the trial period.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 3 mg/day
- Population
- Children
- Ages
- 4–12
RCTGinkgo biloba for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: a double blind, randomized controlled trial2009
In children with ADHD, ginkgo biloba 120 mg/day was significantly less effective than methylphenidate for reducing ADHD symptoms in a 6-week double-blind trial.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 6 weeks
- Dose
- 120 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
Open-labelEffect of the herbal extract combination Panax quinquefolium and Ginkgo biloba on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a pilot study2001n=36
In an open-label study of 36 children with ADHD, a ginseng-ginkgo combination for 4 weeks improved parent-rated ADHD symptoms versus baseline.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Dose
- 200 mg
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 36
- Ages
- 3–17
Acetyl-L-CarnitineView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Small studies show that taking acetyl-L-carnitine by mouth does not help children with ADHD, even when combined with usual medication.
- Scientific guidelines advise against using acetyl-L-carnitine alone or with other treatments for ADHD in children.
Browse 2 studies·1 meta-analysis
MetaClinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) Taskforce2022
WFSBP/CANMAT 2022 guidelines rated acetyl-L-carnitine as not recommended for ADHD based on Grade A evidence from meta-analyses and RCTs.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 2022 g/day
RCTAcetyl-L-carnitine as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: a placebo-controlled trial2011n=40
A 6-week RCT in 40 children with ADHD found acetyl-L-carnitine (500–1500 mg/day) plus methylphenidate did not improve parent or teacher ADHD ratings versus methylphenidate plus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 500 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 40
- Ages
- 7–13
American GinsengView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- It is uncertain if American ginseng helps ADHD on its own.
- One study in children aged 3 to 17 years found that a supplement containing both American ginseng and ginkgo may slightly improve symptoms like anxiety, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- The study didn't compare the supplement to a placebo, so it's unclear which ingredient caused the improvement.
Browse 1 study
Open-labelEffect of the herbal extract combination Panax quinquefolium and Ginkgo biloba on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: a pilot study2001n=36
In an open-label study of 36 children with ADHD, a ginseng-ginkgo combination for 4 weeks improved parent-rated ADHD symptoms versus baseline.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 4 weeks
- Dose
- 50 mg 2×/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 36
- Ages
- 3–17
IronView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Research on children and teens with ADHD who also have low iron levels shows that taking iron supplements for three months did not clearly help reduce symptoms like hyperactivity or difficulty paying attention compared to taking a placebo.
- Different studies reported mixed results, and many children were also taking ADHD medicines during these studies.
- Currently, there is no strong evidence that iron supplements improve ADHD symptoms for children with low iron.
Browse 1 study·1 meta-analysis
MetaIron Supplementation in Management of Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Qualitative Synthesis2024n=7
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 trials in children with neurodevelopmental disorders found limited, low-quality evidence that iron supplementation improves behavioral or cognitive outcomes.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 7
Alpha-Linolenic AcidView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- Taking alpha-linolenic acid does not seem to help with ADHD symptoms in children aged 6 to 16 years, based on small studies.
- Using about 1 gram daily or in combination with other oils for several weeks did not improve behavior compared to a placebo.
Browse 2 studies
RCTThe effect of alpha-linolenic acid supplementation on ADHD symptoms in children: a randomized controlled double-blind study2014
8-week double-blind RCT in children with ADHD given 2 g/day oil containing 1 g ALA found no significant symptom improvement versus placebo; only 17 of 40 completed.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 8 weeks
- Dose
- 2 g/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Ages
- 6–16
RCTThe influence of short-chain essential fatty acids on children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a double-blind placebo-controlled study2009n=63
7-week RCT in 63 ADHD children given 480 mg linoleic plus 120 mg alpha-linolenic acid daily found both EFA and placebo groups improved similarly, with no between-group differences.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 7 weeks
- Dose
- 600 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 63
- Ages
- 7–13
Gamma-Linolenic AcidView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- GLA has only been tested for ADHD together with fish oil ingredients, not on its own.
- In one study, children with ADHD took GLA along with EPA and DHA every day for one year.
- The treatment showed small improvements in attention when compared with placebo, but the changes were too minor to make a real difference in daily life.
- There were also no changes in blood levels of fatty acids.
- At this time, GLA is not considered helpful for ADHD.
Browse 1 study
RCTOmega-3/6 supplementation for mild to moderate inattentive ADHD: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled efficacy study in Italian children2022n=160
In a 6-month double-blind RCT of 160 Italian children (ages 6–12) with inattentive ADHD, omega-3/6 supplement (558 mg EPA + 174 mg DHA + 60 mg GLA/day) improved inattention scores versus placebo.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Dose
- 558 mg EPA + 174 mg DHA + 60 mg GLA/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 160
- Ages
- 6–12
BacopaView supplement →
Do not purchase·★★★★★
How we scored this▸
- The benefits of Bacopa supplements for children with ADHD are not clear.
- One study in boys with symptoms like ADHD but no official diagnosis showed that taking Bacopa for 14 weeks didn’t improve ADHD symptoms but helped with thinking skills and sleep.
- Another smaller study of children diagnosed with ADHD found that Bacopa taken for 6 months appeared to reduce hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and learning problems, but the study had no control group.
- More research is needed to know for sure if Bacopa helps with ADHD.
Browse 2 studies
RCTEffects of Bacopa monnieri (CDRI 08®) in a population of males exhibiting inattention and hyperactivity aged 6 to 14 years: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2022n=12
A 14-week study including 112 children aged 6-14 years found that bacopa did not improve behavioural outcomes but may improve executive functioning and cognitive flexibility compared to placebo. The dose used was 160 mg per day for children up to 35 kg body weight and 320 mg per day for children above 35 kg body weight.
- Effect
- No Benefit
- Duration
- 14 weeks
- Dose
- 160 mg/day
- Population
- Adults
- Participants
- 12
- Ages
- 6–14
Open-labelAn open-label study to elucidate the effects of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract in the management of symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children2014n=31
An open-label study of 31 children aged 6–12 with ADHD found 225 mg/day standardized bacopa for 6 months reduced restlessness in 93% and attention-deficit symptoms in 85%.
- Effect
- Benefit
- Duration
- 6 months
- Dose
- 225 mg/day
- Population
- Children/adolescents
- Participants
- 31
- Ages
- 6–12
Evidence visualised
Same ratings as above, aggregated so you can see coverage and imbalance.
| Supplement | DEX | Studies | Meta-analyses | Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zinc | ★★★★★72% | 7 | 2 | 13% |
| Caffeine | ★★★★★40% | 6 | 0 | 11% |
| Fish Oil | ★★★★★52% | 6 | 2 | 11% |
| Ginkgo | ★★★★★40% | 5 | 1 | 9% |
| Magnesium | ★★★★★72% | 5 | 2 | 9% |
| L-Carnitine | ★★★★★64% | 4 | 0 | 7% |
| Phosphatidylserine | ★★★★★52% | 3 | 1 | 5% |
| Acetyl-L-Carnitine | ★★★★★36% | 2 | 1 | 4% |
| Alpha-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★32% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Bacopa | ★★★★★28% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Melatonin | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Panax Ginseng | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Theanine | ★★★★★44% | 2 | 0 | 4% |
| Vitamin D | ★★★★★48% | 2 | 1 | 4% |
| American Ginseng | ★★★★★36% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Ashwagandha | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Flaxseed Oil | ★★★★★40% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Gamma-Linolenic Acid | ★★★★★32% | 1 | 0 | 2% |
| Iron | ★★★★★36% | 1 | 1 | 2% |
| SAMe | ★★★★★44% | 1 | 0 | 2% |