Hyperactive Smokers Have Trouble Quitting

ADHD smokers with elevated hyperactive symptoms have more trouble kicking the habit than those with inattentive symptoms alone.

A new study on smoking cessation shows that ADHD smokers with elevated levels of hyperactivity and impulsivity have more trouble quitting than those without hyperactive symptoms. Researchers were unable to figure out exactly why hyperactivity makes it more difficult to quit smoking. Some adults with ADHD tend to use cigarettes to self medicate – the dopamine released from smoking tobacco is believed to relieve inattentive symptoms and help with impulse control problems – which may make it more difficult for hyperactive smokers to quit.

Researchers hope to use this information to help ADHD smokers and their doctors customize more successful cessation treatments. This is the first study of its kind.

Read more about this study.