How are ADHD and insomnia treated?

Managing ADHD and insomnia can be a balancing act, since no single medication targets both conditions at once. This page explores how medication and lifestyle changes are used together to manage overlapping symptoms.

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Alexandra Cristina Cowell
Medically reviewed by Alexandra Cristina Cowell Clinical Support

Reading time: 2-3 minutes min

Uploaded on: January 27, 2026

ADHD and insomnia are treated separately — no treatment will target both conditions at the same time.

ADHD is often treated with medications, while other methods are normally suggested first for insomnia before medications are prescribed.

Medication and management approaches for ADHD and insomnia

ADHD treatment

ADHD treatment

Treatment usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

Most common medicines increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels to improve focus and attention.

Clinical guidelines often suggest not to take certain medications after noon, as taking them later in the day may worsen sleep problems.

Insomnia treatment

Pharmacological treatments are not usually prescribed for insomnia. A doctor will usually suggest making changes to improve sleep hygiene first. If these changes don’t work, they might suggest referral to a sleep clinic.

In some cases, antihistamines might be recommended. Feeling drowsy and tired is a side effect of these medications, so they can help with sleep.

If antihistamines don't work well, a type of medication that supplements melatonin levels in the body may be prescribed. This is only ordinarily taken for a few days or weeks, to help regulate the circadian rhythm. Taking it for longer periods can cause dependency.

Adjusting treatments for ADHD and insomnia

A doctor may suggest starting with a lower dose of medication before gradually increasing the dose to reduce the risk of sleep issues.[1]

Additionally, some research has suggested that taking a low dose of sleep hormones while on ADHD medication can improve sleep quality and duration. [2]

Non-pharmacological treatments for ADHD and Insomnia


Icon of a person with an icon overlaid over their head

People with ADHD may benefit from behavioural therapy. This includes strategies to help manage behaviour and make daily life easier.

For children, it often involves a mix of therapy, skill-building, and parent training.

People with insomnia might find sleep therapy helpful. This often includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and tips to improve sleep hygiene.

How can I improve my sleep hygiene?

Sleep hygiene refers to the daily habits and routines that influence sleep quality.

Here are some ways to improve your sleep hygiene:


An infographic titled "How can I improve my sleep hygiene?" that outlines five key lifestyle habits. It includes icons and tips for creating a sleep-friendly environment, limiting stimulants in the evening, getting natural sunlight during the day, reducing blue light exposure before bed, and avoiding eating late at night.

People with ADHD may find it challenging to maintain a sleep routine, but small, consistent efforts can make a difference. You might find working with a sleep coach can be helpful.

CBT for insomnia

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) are approaches that help identify reasons that contribute to sleep difficulties.

Instead of relying on medication, it focuses on overcoming the negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that are contributing to insomnia symptoms. You’ll also learn relaxation techniques and develop a healthy sleep routine.

While CBT-I isn’t a quick fix – treatment can take weeks or months – it’s highly effective and can produce results comparable to sleep medication.[3]

Back to:

Overview

What’s the link?

Symptoms and diagnosis

References:

  1. Stein, M.A., Weiss, M. and Hlavaty, L. (2012). ADHD Treatments, Sleep, and Sleep Problems: Complex Associations. Neurotherapeutics, 9(3), pp.509–517.
  2. Checa-Ros, A., et al. (2023).
  3. Rossman, J. (2019). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: An Effective and Underutilized Treatment for Insomnia. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 13(6), 544.
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Reading time: 2-3 minutes min

Uploaded on: January 27, 2026

Dr Daniel
Medically reviewed by Alexandra Cristina Cowell Clinical Support Registered with GMC (00001) January 27, 2026 Meet Alexandra Cristina Cowell
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Written by Focused Content Team
Last updated on May 05, 2026
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