Women Explain Why They’re Self-Medicating With Dopamine Patches for ADHD—Do They Work?

Summary: Many women struggling with ADHD symptoms are turning to $15 "dopamine patches" they see advertised on TikTok. Because getting a formal ADHD diagnosis can be hard and expensive, these bright, stick-on patches look like an easy fix. Influencers claim the patches give them energy and stop them from zoning out. However, doctors warn that these patches do not actually contain dopamine. Instead, they are unregulated supplements made of ingredients like mushroom and bean extract. Experts say any good feelings might just be the placebo effect, meaning people only feel better because they expect to. Plus, the patches can cause side effects like skin rashes. Doctors suggest focusing on proven habits like better sleep and exercise instead of buying untested internet supplements.

For more details, see SELF at self.com/story/dopamine-patches-for-adhd (opens in new tab)