Amino AcidsL-Theanine

L-theanine improves sleep efficiency in individuals with ADHD

The systematic review found that L-theanine supplementation improved sleep efficiency but did not affect other sleep parameters in individuals with ADHD. This suggests a specific benefit for sleep quality in this population, though overall effects on ADHD symptoms were limited.

Last updated: Aug 26, 2026•0 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score32/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review.

observational

Al Shahab S, Al Balushi R, Qambar A, Abdulla R, Qader M, Abdulla S, Jahrami H · Nutrients (2025)

Participants: N/A
Duration: N/A
Intervention: L-theanine supplementation
Outcome: Sleep efficiency
Effect Size: N/A
Population: Individuals with ADHD (from included RCTs, open-label, and cross-sectional studies)

Result:

PubMed: 40362791DOI: 10.3390/nu17091482

Mechanism Graph

L-theanine increases alpha brain wave activity
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Promotes relaxation without sedation
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May modulate neurotransmitter levels (e.g., GABA, dopamine)
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Result: Improved sleep efficiency

Limitations

  • ⚠Limited number of studies specifically on L-theanine and sleep in ADHD
  • ⚠Abstract does not report specific effect sizes or confidence intervals
  • ⚠Potential heterogeneity in study designs and dosages across included trials

Frequently Asked Questions

Does L-theanine improve overall ADHD symptoms?▼

The review indicates L-theanine primarily improved sleep efficiency, not other sleep parameters or core ADHD symptoms like inattention or hyperactivity.

What is the recommended dose of L-theanine for sleep in ADHD?▼

The abstract does not specify a recommended dose; further studies are needed to ascertain effective dosages.

Is L-theanine safe for use in children with ADHD?▼

The review mentions safety under clinical guidance, but specific safety data for children is not detailed in the abstract.

How does L-theanine compare to stimulant medications for ADHD?▼

The review states that supplements like L-theanine have limited effects and cannot replace the well-documented efficacy of stimulants for ADHD treatment.

Products

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References

  1. 1.Al Shahab S, Al Balushi R, Qambar A, Abdulla R, Qader M, Abdulla S, Jahrami H. "Efficiency of Different Supplements in Alleviating Symptoms of ADHD with or Without the Use of Stimulants: A Systematic Review.." Nutrients, 2025. PMID: 40362791 DOI: 10.3390/nu17091482
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.