GoKawiilResearchers propose treating a subset of ADHD as circadian rhythm disorder
A new perspective paper synthesizes evidence that a large subgroup of people with ADHD show delayed circadian biology, including evening chronotype, delayed dim-light melatonin onset, blunted cortisol rhythms, and altered clock-gene expression. The authors cite intervention studies showing melatonin and bright light therapy can shift circadian phase in ADHD patients, with some data linking that shift to symptom improvement. They propose a stepped clinical pathway starting with sleep/circadian screening and behavioral measures before considering low-dose melatonin.