How estrogen affects ADHD and cognitive function in young women

Estrogen Effects on ADHD and Cognition

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10476401

This study is looking at how changes in estrogen during the menstrual cycle affect ADHD symptoms and thinking skills in young women aged 18 to 25, and it’s inviting local women to join in to help us learn more about this important connection.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10476401 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of estrogen on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and cognitive function in young women aged 18 to 25. The study will utilize a rigorous design that involves tracking hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle to understand how fluctuations in estrogen relate to ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance. By recruiting participants from local health centers and clinics, the research aims to gather comprehensive data on the relationship between hormones and ADHD in females, a group that has been largely overlooked in previous studies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young women aged 18 to 25 who experience symptoms of inattention, overactivity, or impulsivity.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 18 to 25 or those without ADHD symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for young women with ADHD, potentially enhancing their cognitive function and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been some preliminary work on hormonal effects in ADHD, this research is pioneering in its specific focus on estrogen's role in young women with ADHD.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.