Can stimulants, such as amphetamines (Adderall) or methylphenidate (Ritalin), affect short-term memory?

From the Guidelines

Stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, can have a positive effect on short-term memory in individuals with ADHD, by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. The effects of stimulants on short-term memory are complex and can vary depending on several factors, including the dose, individual characteristics, and the presence of ADHD. In therapeutic doses, these medications often improve short-term memory and working memory in individuals with ADHD, as evidenced by studies showing improved performance on tasks requiring vigilance and sustained attention 1. Some key points to consider include:

• The dose-dependent nature of stimulant effects on memory, with therapeutic doses typically ranging from 5-30mg for Adderall and 10-60mg for Ritalin daily
• The individual-specific response to stimulants, with factors such as baseline cognitive function and presence of ADHD playing important roles in determining the effect on short-term memory
• The potential for excessive doses or use by individuals without ADHD to impair short-term memory, highlighting the need for careful prescribing and monitoring
• The indirect effects of stimulants on memory, such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and hyper-focus on certain tasks, which can also impact short-term memory. Overall, the relationship between stimulants and short-term memory is multifaceted, and the use of stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidate, can be beneficial for short-term memory in individuals with ADHD when used appropriately and under medical supervision.

From the Research

Effects of Stimulants on Short-Term Memory

• Stimulants, such as amphetamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin), have been found to have small but significant enhancement effects on short-term episodic memory 2.
• A meta-analysis of 48 studies found that stimulants had a modest overall effect on healthy cognition, including short-term memory, although the effects on long-term and working memory were qualified by evidence for publication bias 2.
• Another study found that stimulant medication increased activation in frontoparietal brain networks engaged for working memory and strengthened connectivity of some frontoparietal regions, which may underlie their beneficial effects on working memory performance 3.

Mechanisms and Implications

• The effects of stimulants on short-term memory may be related to their ability to enhance inhibitory control and working memory, as well as their impact on brain regions such as the anterior cingulate, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, and precuneus 3.
• The use of stimulants to enhance cognition has significant social, ethical, and public health implications, and their effects on short-term memory should be considered in the context of their overall impact on cognitive function and behavior 2, 4, 5.

Clinical Relevance

• Stimulants are commonly used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and their effects on short-term memory may be relevant to their therapeutic efficacy in this context 4, 5.
• Clinicians should consider the potential effects of stimulants on short-term memory when selecting treatment options for patients with ADHD or other conditions, and should monitor patients for any adverse effects on cognitive function 4, 5.