Last updated: October 2026
There’s no good evidence that CBD helps ADHD. The only controlled trial in adults with ADHD tested Sativex, a prescription spray containing THC and CBD: in 30 adults, it didn’t significantly improve the main measures. A 2026 review found too little data to assess cannabinoids for ADHD. CBD products are for adults only, so aren’t suitable for children with ADHD.
Below: what the research shows, why adults with ADHD try CBD, medicine interactions, what helps ADHD, and support.
What the research shows
| Study | What it found |
|---|---|
| Sativex trial in adults, 2017 (30 adults with ADHD) | No significant difference from placebo on the main measures of attention and activity; some signs of less hyperactivity and impulsivity that need testing in larger trials |
| Lancet Psychiatry review, 2026 | Not enough data to assess cannabinoids for ADHD |
| Surveys | Many adults with ADHD report using cannabis; regular cannabis use is linked with worse attention and mental health in some people |
No trial has tested CBD on its own for ADHD. See also CBD for focus and studying.
CBD and children with ADHD
iCBD supplements aren’t suitable for under-18s, and there’s no research supporting CBD for children with ADHD. If you’re a parent looking for help, speak to your GP, school or the child’s ADHD team. See CBD for kids and magnesium for kids.
Why adults with ADHD try CBD
ADHD often comes with poor sleep, restlessness and anxiety, and some adults use CBD as part of an evening wind-down. See CBD for sleep. CBD isn’t a substitute for ADHD assessment or treatment.
If you choose to try it as an adult, start around 10mg a day. The FSA’s 10mg a day figure is precautionary advice rather than a legal limit, set while longer-term safety research continues. At Evopure we think it is a very cautious figure, and many adults use more. If you go above it, increase slowly, and check with your GP or pharmacist first if you take any medication.
ADHD medicines and CBD
- CBD can change levels of some medicines, and there is very little research on it with ADHD medicines such as atomoxetine.
- Speak to your prescriber or pharmacist before combining CBD with methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, atomoxetine, guanfacine or other medicines.
- Avoid THC and cannabis: they can worsen concentration, mood and anxiety.
What helps ADHD
| Approach | Details |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Via your GP, who can refer you to a specialist |
| Medicines | Stimulants and non-stimulants, prescribed and monitored by a specialist |
| Talking therapies and coaching | CBT and ADHD coaching for organisation and coping skills |
| Lifestyle | Regular exercise, sleep routines, structured days, reminders and lists |
ADHD UK and ADHD Foundation offer information and support.
Sensory overload is common with ADHD. See feeling overstimulated.
See also ADHD and sleep problems, including medicine timing and practical tips.
For another condition where the CBD evidence is thin, see our guide to CBD and OCD.
Lion’s mane is the other supplement people often ask about; our lion’s mane and ADHD section explains why there are no human trials yet.
Sources 4
- Cooper RE et al. Cannabinoids in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a randomised-controlled trial. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol, 2017.
- Wilson J et al. The efficacy and safety of cannabinoids for the treatment of mental disorders and substance use disorders. Lancet Psychiatry, 2026.
- NHS. ADHD in adults.
- NICE. ADHD: diagnosis and management (NG87).
This guide is general information, not medical advice.
