Is there an Effect of Serotonin on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological disorder with a prevalence of 5%-10% in the world that negatively impacts school behavior and achievement. There have been many studies reveals that attention disorders are caused by the decreased levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitter. However, particular concern nowadays are the emotional and behavioral problems. The emotional and behavioral problem is suspected to be caused by the decrease in serotonin level. The aim of this study was to determine the difference in serotonin level between ADHD and non-ADHD children.

Method: This study was an observational case-control study design using random sampling method. Subject of this study was children in Bina Karya Elementary School Surabaya. ADHD severity was assessed using Conners Abreviated Rating Scale. Examination of serotonin levels in blood was done by ELISA method. Informed consent was signed by parents before the study. Data was analyzed using independent T-test.

Results: 44 (23 ADHD and 21 non-ADHD) children from grade 1 to 6 was included in the study. Based on the gender, 13 children were girls and 31 children were boys. Serotonin level in ADHD children was significantly higher than non-ADHD children (2.148 ± 0.94 vs 2.006 ± 0.115 μmol/L; p = 0.0001).

Conclusion: Serotonin level in ADHD children was significantly higher than non-ADHD children.