Selegiline for ADHD: Is It the Solution You Are Looking For?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting millions worldwide, characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Traditional treatments, such as stimulants and non-stimulants, provide relief for many, but not all. Researchers are exploring new options, including Selegiline, initially developed for Parkinson’s and depression. Selegiline has shown promise in addressing ADHD symptoms, sparking interest among healthcare professionals and individuals seeking innovative solutions for this complex disorder.

Research has also highlighted Selegiline’s potential benefits in promoting neural health, with some studies suggesting a link between Selegiline and lifespan improvement. Additionally, with its neuroprotective properties, studies have also explored the potential role of Selegiline for longevity in patients with ADHD. Could Selegiline be the solution for ADHD sufferers seeking a new approach? Let’s find out! 

The Science Behind Selegiline and ADHD

Selegiline, a monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitor, increases dopamine availability in the brain, facilitating attention and behavior regulation. Key aspects of its mechanism include:

• Dopamine boost: Inhibiting MAO-B increases dopamine levels.
• MAO-B inhibition: Selective inhibition targets dopamine without affecting other neurotransmitters.
• Enhanced neurotransmission: Increased dopamine availability improves communication between neurons.

Potential effects on ADHD symptoms include:

• Improved focus: Enhanced dopamine availability sustains attention.
• Enhanced executive function: Better organization, planning, and decision-making.
• Mood stabilization: Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Selegiline ADHD Dose and Administration

Selegiline has been investigated as a potential treatment for ADHD. Clinical trials have shown promise, particularly in adults, with typical dosing protocols involving oral tablets or transdermal patches, ranging from 5-10 mg/day. Oral tablets are available in 5 mg and 10 mg strengths, taken once daily, while transdermal patches deliver a continuous dose. Children may require lower doses, starting at 2.5 mg/day, while adults start at 5 mg/day.

Individualized dosage is crucial to ensure optimal efficacy and minimize side effects, under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Medical guidance, monitoring, and dosage adjustments are essential to determine the best dosage and formulation for each individual, achieve optimal results, and minimize side effects. Regular monitoring of side effects, efficacy, and potential interactions with other medications is also vital.

Selegiline for ADHD in Adults

When stimulants fail, Selegiline offers a valuable alternative. By increasing dopamine levels, it regulates mood, improves focus, and enhances productivity. Studies demonstrate reduced ADHD symptoms, improved emotional regulation, and enhanced cognitive function.

Selegiline’s mood-stabilizing properties alleviate comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety, common in adults with ADHD. This provides a valuable treatment option, particularly for those unresponsive to traditional stimulant therapies. 

Research and Clinical Findings

Research on Selegiline for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has yielded promising results. Studies published on PubMed and peer-reviewed journals have investigated Selegiline’s efficacy in children and adults.

Key findings:

• Selegiline has been shown to improve attention and executive function in adults with ADHD (J Clin Psychopharmacol, 2011).
• Studies in children with ADHD have reported reduced symptoms and improved behavior (J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol, 2015).
• Many studies have limited sample sizes, which can impact the generalizability of results.
• Selegiline is not FDA-approved for ADHD, and its use in this context is considered off-label.

Comparing Selegiline with Traditional ADHD Medications

Selegiline offers a distinct approach to treating ADHD compared to traditional medications. Unlike stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamines) and non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine), Selegiline’s mechanism involves increasing dopamine levels by blocking its breakdown.

Key differences:

• Mechanism: Selegiline’s MAO-B inhibition vs. stimulants’ dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibition and non-stimulants norepinephrine reuptake inhibition.
• Side effect profiles: Selegiline’s side effects (e.g., insomnia, dry mouth) differ from those of stimulants (e.g., anxiety, weight loss) and non-stimulants (e.g., nausea, fatigue).
• Regulation: Selegiline is not FDA-approved for ADHD, whereas traditional medications are approved for this indication.
• Alternative or adjunct therapy: Selegiline may be considered for patients who cannot tolerate traditional medications, have comorbid conditions (e.g., depression), or require additional therapeutic options.

Who Might Benefit From Selegiline for ADHD?

Selegiline may offer a valuable alternative for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) who face challenges with traditional treatments. The following groups may benefit from Selegiline:

• Stimulant-sensitive individuals: Those who experience adverse effects or sensitivities to stimulant medications.
• Adults with co-existing mood disorders: Adults with ADHD and mild mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety.
• Children requiring sustained dopamine support: Children who need long-lasting dopamine support without the peaks and crashes associated with traditional stimulants.
• Individuals seeking non-traditional or neuroprotective options: Those interested in exploring alternative treatments with potential neuroprotective benefits.

FAQs

How does Selegiline work for ADHD symptoms?

Selegiline increases dopamine levels by blocking its breakdown, improving focus, attention, and impulse control in ADHD.

What is the typical Selegiline ADHD dose?

The typical Selegiline dose for ADHD is 5-10 mg/day, taken orally in the morning, with some studies suggesting doses up to 15-20 mg/day for optimal efficacy.

Can Selegiline be used in children with ADHD?

Selegiline can be used off-label in children with ADHD, typically starting at 2.5-5 mg/day, with dose adjustments as needed to minimize side effects and optimize efficacy.

How does Selegiline compare to stimulants?

Selegiline differs from stimulants in its mechanism, targeting dopamine breakdown instead of reuptake, offering a smoother, more sustained effect with potentially fewer side effects and less abuse potential.

References 

1. Vashishtha, S. (2021). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Introduction, mental health concerns, and treatment. In R. T. Gopalan (Ed.), New developments in diagnosing, assessing, and treating ADHD (pp. 23–42). Medical Information Science Reference/IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-7998-5495-1.ch002
2. Shahin Akhondzadeh, Reza Tavakolian, Rozita Davari-Ashtiani, Fariba Arabgol, Homayoun Amini, Selegiline in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children: a double-blind and randomized trial, Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, Volume 27, Issue 5, 2003, Pages 841-845, ISSN 0278-5846,https://doi.org/10.1016/S0278-5846(03)00117-9.
3. Monique Ernst, Laura L Liebenauer, Daniel Tebeka, Peter H. Jons, Graeme Eisenhofer, Dennis L. Murphy, Alan J. Zametkin, Selegiline in ADHD adults, plasma monoamines and monoamine metabolites, Neuropsychopharmacology, Volume 16, Issue 4, 1997, Pages 276-284, ISSN 0893-133X,https://doi.org/10.1016/S0893-133X(96)00243-6.
4. Rubinstein S, Malone MA, Roberts W, Logan WJ. Placebo-controlled study examining effects of selegiline in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2006 Aug;16(4):404-15. doi: 10.1089/cap.2006.16.404. PMID: 16958566.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16958566
5. Mohammadi, Mohammad Reza, Ghanizadeh, Ahmad, Alaghband Rad, Javad, Tehranidoost, Mahdi, Mesgarpour, Bita, Soori, Hamid, 2004/02/01, 418, 25, Selegiline in Comparison with Methylphenidate in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Children and Adolescents in a Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial, VL  – 14, DO  -10.1089/cap.2004.14.418, Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacologyhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/8079899_Selegiline_in_Comparison_with_Methylphenidate_in_Attention_Deficit_Hyperactivity_Disorder_Children_and_Adolescents_in_a_Double-Blind_Randomized_Clinical_Trial