Neuroplasticity Technology for Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Clinical Trial

Official title: Neuroplasticity Technology for Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

This study evaluates the impact of computerized inhibitory control training on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and ADHD-linked neural signatures in children with ADHD. Children were randomly assigned to adaptive computerized training (n=20) or non-adaptive computerized training control (n=20) with identical stimuli and goals.

Clinical Trial Description

Both medication and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective treatments for many children, however, adherence to both medication and therapy regimes is low. Thus, identifying effective adjunct treatments for ADHD is imperative.

Previous studies exploring computerized training programs as supplementary treatments have targeted working memory or attention. However, many lines of research point to inhibitory control (IC) playing a central role in ADHD pathophysiology. IC abnormalities in children with ADHD have been evidenced both in behavioral performance on computerized tasks as well as in the structure and function of neural systems known to support IC function. Furthermore, these IC abnormalities have been linked to symptom severity.

Given findings that the most successful training interventions for children with ADHD are those that have implemented IC training along wtih working memory or attention and previous work demonstrating that IC is a central deficit for children with ADHD, it is surprising that no studies have sought to investigate programs that specifically target IC. Investigators hypothesize that training IC alone will decrease symptoms of ADHD, and information confirming this hypothesis would contribute to making training regimens for children with ADHD efficient by identifying the primary cognitive skill that requires intervention. To test this, they administer a randomized control trial of either adaptive of non-adaptive stop signal reaction time (SSRT) tasks to children with ADHD and assess effects of training on ADHD symptoms and neural activity. ;

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Disease
• Hyperkinesis

• NCT number: NCT03363568
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Boston Children’s Hospital
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: July 18, 2013
• Completion date: March 3, 2014