What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

Common treatments for ADHD include stimulant medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and emerging interventions like Central Executive Training (CET). Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving attention and focus. CBT helps patients develop coping strategies and organizational skills to manage symptoms. CET specifically targets components of the working memory system to enhance executive functions, which are often impaired in ADHD patients. These mechanisms are important as they address various aspects of ADHD, offering a multifaceted approach to treatment.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for ADHD that target executive functions and working memory include stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines, which can cause side effects such as insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, increased heart rate, and potential for substance abuse. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine may lead to side effects including gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and mood swings. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) generally have fewer side effects, but some individuals may experience initial increases in anxiety or emotional discomfort as they engage with the therapeutic process.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several medications for the treatment of ADHD that may impact executive functions and working memory. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines (e.g., Adderall, Vyvanse) are commonly used and have been shown to improve core ADHD symptoms. Non-stimulant options include atomoxetine (Strattera) and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists like clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv). These medications help manage symptoms and may support improvements in executive functions and working memory, similar to the goals of Central Executive Training (CET).

What other types of research exist?

Promising, novel alternatives to Central Executive Training (CET) for ADHD patients include: 1) Cogmed Working Memory Training (CWMT), which has shown improvements in working memory and executive functioning in children with ADHD. 2) 'Paying Attention in Class,' a combined working memory and executive function compensatory training, which has demonstrated positive outcomes in neurocognitive functioning and academic performance. 3) Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), which has been studied for its potential to improve inattention in adults with ADHD.

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Behavioural Intervention

Cognitive Training for ADHD

N/A

Recruiting

Research Sponsored by Florida State University

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Be younger than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up immediate post-treatment (within 2 weeks of final treatment session)

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial is testing a new computer program called Central Executive Training (CET) to help kids with ADHD improve their memory and attention. The program uses fun computer games to practice these skills. It was developed with input from experts, caregivers, and kids with ADHD. Central Executive Training (CET) has been shown to improve executive function deficits and behavioral symptoms in children with ADHD.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for children aged 8-12 with ADHD, as confirmed by clinical interviews and teacher/parent ratings. They must have below-average working memory but no severe neurological issues, intellectual disability (IQ < 78), or conditions like psychosis that could affect participation. Non-English speakers are excluded.

What is being tested?

The study tests Central Executive Training (CET) targeting different executive functions in the brain to improve attention and memory in kids with ADHD. It's a computerized program developed from expert feedback, designed to help manage symptoms of ADHD through cognitive exercises.

What are the potential side effects?

Since CET involves non-invasive cognitive training exercises on a computer, there are typically no physical side effects associated with this type of intervention.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ immediate post-treatment (within 2 weeks of final treatment session)

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~immediate post-treatment (within 2 weeks of final treatment session)

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and immediate post-treatment (within 2 weeks of final treatment session) for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

ADHD symptoms

Secondary study objectives

Actigraph-measured hyperactivity during baseline

Actigraph-measured hyperactivity during working memory testing

Inhibitory control

+1 more

Other study objectives

Academic performance rating scale (APRS)

Children's Organizational Skills Scale (COSS) Parent Report

Children's Organizational Skills Scale (COSS) Teacher Report

+9 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: CET-Working Memory (WM)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

Central Executive Training: Working Memory

Group II: CET-Behavioral Inhibition (BI)Active Control1 Intervention

Central Executive Training: Inhibitory Control

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Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for ADHD include stimulant medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and emerging interventions like Central Executive Training (CET). Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving attention and focus. CBT helps patients develop coping strategies and organizational skills to manage symptoms. CET specifically targets components of the working memory system to enhance executive functions, which are often impaired in ADHD patients. These mechanisms are important as they address various aspects of ADHD, offering a multifaceted approach to treatment.

Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in adults with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder who report clinically significant impairment in executive function: results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.[Effect of methylphenidate on executive function for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder].