Season 2 · Episode 1268
The Paradoxical Nap: Why ADHD Meds Can Cause Fatigue
Why do stimulants make some ADHD brains want to nap? Explore the science behind the "paradoxical effect" and the search for neurological quiet.
My Weird Prompts · Daniel Rosehill
March 16, 202619m 51s
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Show Notes
For many individuals with ADHD, taking a stimulant doesn't lead to a burst of energy, but rather an overwhelming urge to sleep. This episode dives into the neurobiology of the "paradoxical effect," explaining how increasing dopamine and norepinephrine can quiet mental chatter and allow a hyper-aroused nervous system to finally rest. We explore the signal-to-noise ratio in the prefrontal cortex and why medication often reveals a deep-seated exhaustion that has been masked by years of compensatory stress.