Randomized, 6-Week, Placebo-Controlled Study of Treatment for Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Individualized Dosing of Osmotic-Release Oral System (OROS) Methylphenidate With a Goal of Symptom Remission

The effects of chronic administration of stimulant and non-stimulant medications on executive functions in ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with executive function deficits that are improved with medications. However, meta-analyses of stimulant effects on cognition have mostly tested single-dose effects, and there is no meta-analysis of non-stimulant effects. This systematic review and meta-analysis tested the clinically more relevant longer-term effects of Methylphenidate (20 studies; minimum 1 week) and Atomoxetine (8 studies; minimum 3 weeks) on reaction time, attention, inhibition, and working memory, searching papers on PubMed, Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. The meta-analysis of 18 studies in 1667 subjects showed that methylphenidate was superior to placebo in all cognitive domains with small to medium effect sizes (Hedges g of 0.34-0.59). The meta-analysis of atomoxetine included 7 studies in 829 subjects and showed no effects in working memory, but superior effects in the other domains with medium to large effect sizes (Hedge's g of 0.36-0.64). Meta-regression analysis showed no drug differences on cognitive effects. The meta-analyses show for the first time that chronic Methylphenidate and Atomoxetine have comparable effects of improving executive functions in people with ADHD.

Differential Outcomes of Placebo Treatment Across 9 Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Importance

Placebo is the only substance systematically evaluated across common psychiatric diagnoses, but comprehensive cross-diagnostic comparisons are lacking.

Objective

To compare changes in placebo groups in recent high-quality randomized clinical trials (RCTs) across a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders in adult patients.

Data Sources

MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were systematically searched in March 2022 for the latest systematic reviews meeting predetermined high-quality criteria for 9 major psychiatric diagnoses.

Study Selection

Using these reviews, the top 10 highest-quality (ie, lowest risk of bias, according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool) and most recent placebo-controlled RCTs per diagnosis (totaling 90 RCTs) were selected, adhering to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Following the Cochrane Handbook, 2 authors independently carried out the study search, selection, and data extraction. Cross-diagnosis comparisons were based on standardized pre-post effect sizes (mean change divided by its SD) for each placebo group. This study is reported following the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) reporting guideline.

Main Outcome and Measure

The primary outcome, pooled pre-post placebo effect sizes (dav) with 95% CIs per diagnosis, was determined using random-effects meta-analyses. A Q test assessed statistical significance of differences across diagnoses. Heterogeneity and small-study effects were evaluated as appropriate.

Results

A total of 90 RCTs with 9985 placebo-treated participants were included. Symptom severity improved with placebo in all diagnoses. Pooled pre-post placebo effect sizes differed across diagnoses (Q = 88.5; df = 8; P < .001), with major depressive disorder (dav = 1.40; 95% CI, 1.24-1.56) and generalized anxiety disorder (dav = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.06-1.41) exhibiting the largest dav. Panic disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, social phobia, and mania showed dav between 0.68 and 0.92, followed by OCD (dav = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.51-0.78) and schizophrenia (dav = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.41-0.76).

Conclusion and Relevance

This systematic review and meta-analysis found that symptom improvement with placebo treatment was substantial in all conditions but varied across the 9 included diagnoses. These findings may help in assessing the necessity and ethical justification of placebo controls, in evaluating treatment effects in uncontrolled studies, and in guiding patients in treatment decisions. These findings likely encompass the true placebo effect, natural disease course, and nonspecific effects.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Effects of Pharmacological Treatment for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder on Quality of Life

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify the effect of ADHD medication on QoL, and to understand if this effect differs between stimulants and non-stimulants.

METHOD

From the dataset of a published network meta-analysis (Cortese et al., 20181), updated on 27th February 2023 (https://med-adhd.org/), we identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of ADHD medications for individuals aged 6 or more with a diagnosis of ADHD based on DSM (from III to 5 editions) or ICD (9 or 10), reporting data on QoL (measured with a validated scale). The risk of bias for each RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. Multi-level meta-analytic models were conducted with R 4.3.1.

RESULTS

We included 17 RCTs (5,388 participants in total; 56% randomized to active medication) in the meta-analyses. We found that amphetamines (Hedge's g = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.08, 0.94), methylphenidate (0.38; 0.23, 0.54), and atomoxetine (0.30; 0.19, 0.40) were significantly more efficacious than placebo in improving QoL in people with ADHD, with moderate effect size. For atomoxetine, these effects were not moderated by the length of intervention, nor differed between children/adolescents and adults.

DISCUSSION

In addition to being efficacious in reducing ADHD core symptoms' severity, both stimulant and non-stimulant medications are efficacious in improving QoL in people with ADHD, albeit with lower effect sizes. Future research should explore whether and to what degree combining pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions is likely to further improve QoL in people with ADHD.

STUDY PREREGISTRATION INFORMATION

Effects of pharmacological treatment for ADHD on quality of life: a systematic review and meta-analysis; https://osf.io/; qvgps.

The Risk of Methylphenidate Pharmacotherapy for Adults with ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. It was once thought to be a disorder affecting only children, but in those undiagnosed in childhood, symptoms do not disappear with age. There is now a growing recognition of the late diagnosis and treatment of adults with ADHD. The first-line drug in pharmacotherapy is methylphenidate, and information about its adverse effects, when used by adults, has not been as extensively described as in children. The aim of this article was to review the literature describing the risks of methylphenidate therapy for adults with ADHD. A total of 19 articles-15 clinical trials and 4 case reports presenting rare side effects resulting from methylphenidate therapy, such as reversible ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and psychotic episodes, were analyzed. The analysis from clinical trials included 3458 adult patients with ADHD and described the most common side effects, psychiatric adverse events, effects of methylphenidate treatment on sleep, laboratory results, body mass, and cardiovascular symptoms. Methylphenidate treatment is well tolerated, with side effects described, according to severity, as mild to moderate. We conclude that pharmacotherapy is not risk-free and methylphenidate, due to its side effects, may not be the first drug of choice for every patient.

Effects of methylphenidate on subjective sleep parameters in adults with ADHD: a prospective, non-randomized, non-blinded 6-week trial

OBJECTIVE

Methylphenidate is a first-line treatment for ADHD; its contribution to sleep problems in adult ADHD is currently unclear. This study investigates (a) subjective sleep disturbances in a group of initially stimulant medication-naïve adults with ADHD and (b) reported changes in sleep problems after 6 weeks of methylphenidate treatment.

METHOD

A prospective, non-randomized, non-blinded, 6-week follow-up study utilising a self-report measure.

RESULTS

We found (1) a large difference in reported sleep quality between methylphenidate medication-naïve patients and controls at baseline, (2) a marked improvement in patients after methylphenidate medication, and (3) largest improvement for patients with the poorest reported sleep at baseline.

CONCLUSION

The study indicates that treatment with methylphenidate increases subjective sleep quality for at least some adults with ADHD.

The Association of Oral Stimulant Medication Adherence with Work Productivity among Adults with ADHD

OBJECTIVE

Examine associations between oral psychostimulant pharmacotherapy adherence, work productivity, and related indirect costs among US adults with ADHD.

METHODS

Medication adherence (Medication Adherence Reasons Scale [MAR-Scale]), work productivity and activity impairment (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment-General Health questionnaire), and ADHD symptom level (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale version 1.1 Symptom Checklist) were assessed in this noninterventional online survey of adults who self-reported having an ADHD diagnosis and were currently receiving oral psychostimulant treatment for ≥3 months.

RESULTS

Of 602 respondents, 395 had low/medium adherence (LMA: MAR-Scale total score ≥1) and 207 had high adherence (HA: MAR-Scale total score 0). After adjusting for covariates, the LMA group had significantly greater levels of absenteeism, absenteeism-related indirect costs, and total indirect costs (all p < .01) than the HA group.

CONCLUSION

In adults with ADHD using oral psychostimulants, lower medication adherence was associated with greater absenteeism and indirect costs.

Understanding the Impact of Stimulants on Sleep in ADHD: Evidence from Systematic Assessment of Sleep in Adults

Stimulants are widely prescribed to manage attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults. Stimulants promote wakefulness and can produce insomnia side effects. We hypothesized that systematic studies of sleep effects would reveal patterns of sleep impairment that may be important for clinicians to monitor and manage. We conducted a review and analysis of studies that measured sleep systematically during stimulant treatment in adults. We identified nine studies that met our search criteria, including four double-blind placebo-controlled studies. All studies recorded self-report subjective sleep quality data, three studies collected actigraphy data, and three studies collected polysomnography data. One study found better subjective sleep quality under open-label treatment conditions. Both polysomnography studies found improvement in aspects of sleep patterns. Two of the actigraphy studies suggested that adults receiving stimulant treatment may have less movement during sleep, and one showed reduction in amount of sleep. Further research could inform best practices for maintaining sleep quality during stimulant treatment.

Extended-release methylphenidate for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric diagnosis increasingly used in adults. The recommended first-line pharmacological treatment is central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, such as methylphenidate, but uncertainty remains about its benefits and harms.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of extended-release formulations of methylphenidate in adults diagnosed with ADHD.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, nine other databases and four clinical trial registries up to February 2021. We searched 12 drug regulatory databases for clinical trial data up to 13 May 2020. In addition, we cross-referenced all available trial identifiers, handsearched reference lists, searched pharmaceutical company databases, and contacted trial authors.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised, double-blind, parallel-group trials comparing extended-release methylphenidate formulations at any dose versus placebo and other ADHD medications in adults diagnosed with ADHD.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data. We assessed dichotomous outcomes as risk ratios (RRs), and rating scales and continuous outcomes as mean differences (MDs) or standardised mean differences (SMDs). We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool to assess risks of bias, and GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. We meta-analysed the data using a random-effects model. We assessed three design characteristics that may impair the trial results' 'generalisability'; exclusion of participants with psychiatric comorbidity; responder selection based on previous experience with CNS stimulants; and risk of withdrawal effects. Our prespecified primary outcomes were functional outcomes, self-rated ADHD symptoms, and serious adverse events. Our secondary outcomes included quality of life, ADHD symptoms rated by investigators and by peers such as family members, cardiovascular variables, severe psychiatric adverse events, and other adverse events.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 24 trials (5066 participants), of which 21 reported outcome data for this review. We also identified one ongoing study. We included documents from six drug regulatory agencies covering eight trials. Twenty-one trials had an outpatient setting and three were conducted in prisons. They were primarily conducted in North America and Europe. The median participant age was 36 years. Twelve trials (76% of participants) were industry-sponsored, four (14% of participants) were publicly funded with industry involvement, seven (10% of participants) were publicly funded, and one had unclear funding. The median trial duration was eight weeks. One trial was rated at overall unclear risk of bias and 20 trials were rated at overall high risk of bias, primarily due to unclear blinding of participants and investigators, attrition bias, and selective outcome reporting. All trials were impaired in at least one of the three design characteristics related to 'generalisability'; for example, they excluded participants with psychiatric comorbidity such as depression or anxiety, or included participants only with a previous positive response to methylphenidate, or similar drugs. This may limit the trials' usefulness for clinical practice, as they may overestimate the benefits and underestimate the harms. Extended-release methylphenidate versus placebo (up to 26 weeks) For the primary outcomes, we found very low-certainty evidence that methylphenidate had no effect on 'days missed at work' at 13-week follow-up (mean difference (MD) -0.15 days, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.11 to 1.81; 1 trial, 409 participants) or serious adverse events (risk ratio (RR) 1.43, CI 95% CI 0.85 to 2.43; 14 trials, 4078 participants), whereas methylphenidate improved self-rated ADHD symptoms (small-to-moderate effect; SMD -0.37, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.30; 16 trials, 3799 participants). For secondary outcomes, we found very low-certainty evidence that methylphenidate improved self-rated quality of life (small effect; SMD -0.15, 95% CI -0.25 to -0.05; 6 trials, 1888 participants), investigator-rated ADHD symptoms (small-to-moderate effect; SMD -0.42, 95% CI -0.49 to -0.36; 18 trials, 4183 participants), ADHD symptoms rated by peers such as family members (small-to-moderate effect; SMD -0.31, 95% CI -0.48 to -0.14; 3 trials, 1005 participants), and increased the risk of experiencing any adverse event (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.37; 14 trials, 4214 participants). We rated the certainty of the evidence as 'very low' for all outcomes, primarily due to high risk of bias and 'indirectness of the evidence'. One trial (419 participants) had follow-up at 52 weeks and two trials (314 participants) included active comparators, hence long-term and comparative evidence is limited.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found very low-certainty evidence that extended-release methylphenidate compared to placebo improved ADHD symptoms (small-to-moderate effects) measured on rating scales reported by participants, investigators, and peers such as family members. Methylphenidate had no effect on 'days missed at work' or serious adverse events, the effect on quality of life was small, and it increased the risk of several adverse effects. We rated the certainty of the evidence as 'very low' for all outcomes, due to high risk of bias, short trial durations, and limitations to the generalisability of the results. The benefits and harms of extended-release methylphenidate therefore remain uncertain.

A clinician's guide for navigating the world of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications

Once considered a condition of hyperactive boys, our knowledge and understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and has dramatically evolved.1 Landmark studies by Biederman, Kessler, Faraone, and others have changed and deepened our understanding of ADHD to include a condition which not only affects boys but quite often affects girls.1–5 The evolution of symptoms across the lifespan and the concomitant neurologic changes which underlie this symptomatic expression has similarly evolved.6 Studies by Dalsgaard and others have brought to light the significantly increased morbidity and mortality associated with preschoolers, children, and adults struggling with ADHD and associated conditions.7,8

Effect of a Multi-Layer, Extended-Release Methylphenidate Formulation (PRC-063) on Sleep in Adults with ADHD: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Forced-Dose, Placebo-Controlled Trial Followed by a 6-month Open-Label Extension

BACKGROUND

The effects of stimulant treatment on sleep in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are complex and varied, with some individuals experiencing worsening of sleep but others experiencing improvement.

METHODS

Data from previously reported trials of the clinical efficacy and safety of the long-acting methylphenidate formulation PRC-063 (Adhansia XR^® in the USA; Foquest^® in Canada) in adults with ADHD were used to evaluate patient-reported sleep outcomes, as captured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and adverse events of insomnia. The trials comprised 4 weeks of randomized, forced-dose PRC-063 treatment at a dose of 0 (placebo), 25, 45, 70, or 100 mg/day followed by an optional 6 months of open-label PRC-063 treatment at an individually optimized dose of 25-100 mg/day.

RESULTS

At the end of double-blind treatment, PRC-063 (all doses combined; N = 297) showed no significant difference versus placebo (N = 78) in least squares mean change in global PSQI score from baseline (- 0.7 vs. - 1.3; P = 0.0972) or in scores for each of the seven subscales of the PSQI. For patients enrolled in the open-label extension (N = 184), mean ± standard deviation global PSQI score improved from 7.8 ± 3.55 at the end of double-blind treatment to 5.8 ± 3.11 at 1 month and 5.4 ± 3.21 at 6 months (P < 0.0001). A greater proportion of patients were good sleepers (global PSQI score ≤ 5) at the end of the open-label extension (57.3%) than at baseline (20.9%) or at the end of double-blind treatment (26.0%). In a logistic regression analysis, baseline global PSQI score (odds ratio 1.491; P < 0.0001), but not randomized study treatment (P = 0.1428), was a significant predictor of poor sleep (global PSQI score > 5) at the end of double-blind treatment. Adverse event rates for insomnia (15.8 vs. 3.8%) and initial insomnia (6.1 vs. 1.3%) during double-blind treatment were higher for PRC-063 (all doses combined) than for placebo. Two patients receiving PRC-063 in the double-blind study and one patient in the open-label study were withdrawn because of insomnia adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that, on average, PRC-063 had no significant impact on overall sleep quality in adults with ADHD. Although insomnia was observed as an adverse event, when sleep was measured over time as an outcome in its own right for patients receiving dose-optimized PRC-063 open-label, more patients showed improvement in sleep than deterioration. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFER

NCT02139124 and NCT02168127.

Pharmacologic treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects approximately 3% of adults globally. Many pharmacologic treatments options exist, yet the comparative benefits and harms of individual treatments are largely unknown. We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis to assess the relative effects of individual pharmacologic treatments for adults with ADHD.

Methods

We searched English-language published and grey literature sources for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving pharmacologic treatment of ADHD in adults (December 2018). The primary outcome was clinical response; secondary outcomes were quality of life, executive function, driving behaviour, withdrawals due to adverse events, treatment discontinuation, serious adverse events, hospitalization, cardiovascular adverse events, and emergency department visits. Data were pooled via pair-wise meta-analyses and Bayesian network meta-analyses. Risk of bias was assessed by use of Cochrane’s Risk of Bias tool, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed by use of the GRADE framework.

Results

Eighty-one unique trials that reported at least one outcome of interest were included, most of which were at high or unclear risk of at least one important source of bias. Notably, only 5 RCTs were deemed at overall low risk of bias. Included pharmacotherapies were methylphenidate, atomoxetine, dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine, guanfacine, bupropion, mixed amphetamine salts, and modafinil. As a class, ADHD pharmacotherapy improved patient- and clinician-reported clinical response compared with placebo (range: 4 to 15 RCTs per outcome); however, these findings were not conserved when the analyses were restricted to studies at low risk of bias, and the certainty of the finding is very low. There were few differences among individual medications, although atomoxetine was associated with improved patient-reported clinical response and quality of life compared with placebo. There was no significant difference in the risk of serious adverse events or treatment discontinuation between ADHD pharmacotherapies and placebo; however, the proportion of participants who withdrew due to adverse events was significantly higher among participants who received any ADHD pharmacotherapy. Few RCTs reported on the occurrence of adverse events over a long treatment duration.

Conclusions

Overall, despite a class effect of improving clinical response relative to placebo, there were few differences among the individual ADHD pharmacotherapies, and most studies were at risk of at least one important source of bias. Furthermore, the certainty of the evidence was very low to low for all outcomes, and there was limited reporting of long-term adverse events. As such, the choice between ADHD pharmacotherapies may depend on individual patient considerations, and future studies should assess the long-term effects of individual pharmacotherapies on patient-important outcomes, including quality of life, in robust blinded RCTs.

Registration

PROSPERO no. CRD 42015026049

Post hoc Responder and Remission Analyses from Two Studies of SHP465 Mixed Amphetamine Salts Extended-Release Among Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Objectives: In two studies of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), SHP465 mixed amphetamine salts (MAS) extended-release significantly reduced ADHD-Rating Scale, 4th Edition total score (ADHD-RS-IV-TS) versus placebo (PBO). This report describes post hoc analyses of SHP465 MAS treatment response and remission rates from those studies. Methods: Adults with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision-defined ADHD were randomized to SHP465 MAS (12.5-75 mg) or PBO in a 7-week dose-optimization study and to SHP465 MAS (25, 50, or 75 mg) or PBO in a 6-week fixed-dose study. Response was examined using three definitions (definition 1: ≥30% ADHD-RS-IV-TS reduction + Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement [CGI-I] rating of 1 or 2; definition 2: ≥50% ADHD-RS-IV-TS reduction + CGI-I rating of 1 or 2; definition 3: ADHD-RS-IV-TS ≤18). Remission was defined as ADHD-RS-IV-TS ≤12. The Kaplan-Meier analyses assessed time to response or remission. Results: The intent-to-treat populations included 136 SHP465 MAS and 132 PBO participants in the dose-optimization study and 302 SHP465 MAS and 103 PBO participants in the fixed-dose study. Percentages of participants meeting response criteria (SHP465 MAS vs. PBO) at the final treatment week in the dose-optimization and fixed-dose studies, respectively, were 66.0% versus 31.6% and 72.7% versus 28.3% (definition 1); 47.9% versus 27.6% and 60.6% versus 16.7% (definition 2); and 54.3% versus 30.3% and 52.6% versus 18.3% (definition 3). The remission criterion (SHP465 MAS vs. PBO) at the final treatment week was met by 37.2% versus 19.7% of participants in the dose-optimization study and 39.7% versus 10.0% of participants in the fixed-dose study. Times to response and remission favored SHP465 MAS over PBO in both studies (all nominal log-rank p < 0.0001). Conclusion: These post hoc analyses indicate that SHP465 MAS was associated with greater response and remission rates than PBO in adults with ADHD, with times to response and remission also nominally favoring SHP465 MAS.

A prospective open-label trial of long-acting liquid methylphenidate for the treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in intellectually capable adults with autism spectrum disorder

Objectives: This treatment trial is aimed at assessing the short-term tolerability and efficacy of liquid-formulation extended-release methylphenidate (MPH-ER) for the treatment of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HF-ASD).Methods: A 6-week open-label trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02096952) was conducted in 15 HF-ASD adults (mean age 24.9 ± 4.6; male, 12 (80%)) suffering from moderate-severe ADHD. MPH-ER was administered based on a flexible titration schedule. Efficacy was assessed on clinician- and self-rated measures. Tolerability was assessed by documenting treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) and other safety measures.Results: Short-term MPH-ER treatment was associated with significant improvement in ADHD severity (Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Report Scale (AISRS) mean change (MC), -22.8 ± 8.8, P < 0.001; Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) MC, -8.2 ± 15.3, P < 0.001). Twelve (80%) participants were deemed responders, based on ≥30% reduction in AISRS score and an ADHD Clinical Global Impression-Improvement score ≤2. MPH-ER was well-tolerated (treatment-limiting AEs, 1/15; severe AEs, 1/15) at mean dose of 48.7 ± 15 mg/day. AEs were transient and experienced by 13/15 (87%) participants at mild to moderate severity. Frequently reported AEs were as typically expected (headache (53%), insomnia (33%), anxiety (33%), decreased appetite (27%)).Conclusions: Our findings suggest that MPH-ER is effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of ADHD in HF-ASD adults.

The Relationship Between Executive Function Deficits and DSM-5-Defined ADHD Symptoms

Objectives: To identify the relationship between the core Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) ADHD symptoms and executive function deficits (EFDs), to evaluate ADHD characteristics of those with executive dysfunction (ED), and to examine the predictive utility of the Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS) in identifying those with adult ADHD and ED. Method: Two samples (referred and primary care practice) were pooled together for present analysis. Results: Final analysis included 297 respondents, 171 with adult ADHD. Spearman correlation coefficients and binary logistic regressions demonstrated that ADHD inattentive (IA) and hyperactive-impulsive (H-I) symptoms were moderately to strongly correlated with and highly predictive of EFDs. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that an AISRS DSM 18-item score of ⩾ 28 was most predictive of clinical ED. Conclusion: ADHD symptoms were strongly correlated with and predictive of EFDs, clinicians should screen adults with ADHD for EFDs and ADHD treatment providers should track EFD improvement in addition to DSM-5 ADHD symptoms.

Visual attention in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder before and after stimulant treatment

BACKGROUND

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which frequently persists into adulthood. The primary goal of the current study was to (a) investigate attentional functions of stimulant medication-naïve adults with ADHD, and (b) investigate the effects of 6 weeks of methylphenidate treatment on these functions.

METHODS

The study was a prospective, non-randomized, non-blinded, 6-week follow-up design with 42 stimulant medication-naïve adult patients with ADHD, and 42 age and parental education-matched healthy controls. Assessments included measures of visual attention, based on Bundesen's Theory of Visual Attention (TVA), which yields five precise measures of aspects of visual attention; general psychopathology; ADHD symptoms; dyslexia screening; and estimates of IQ.

RESULTS

At baseline, significant differences were found between patients and controls on three attentional parameters: visual short-term memory capacity, threshold of conscious perception, and to a lesser extent visual processing speed. Secondary analyses revealed no significant correlations between TVA parameter estimates and severity of ADHD symptomatology. At follow-up, significant improvements were found specifically for visual processing speed; this improvement had a large effect size, and remained when controlling for re-test effects, IQ, and dyslexia screen performance. There were no significant correlations between changes in visual processing speed and changes in ADHD symptomatology.

CONCLUSIONS

ADHD in adults may be associated with deficits in three distinct aspects of visual attention. Improvements after 6 weeks of medication are seen specifically in visual processing speed, which could represent an improvement in alertness. Clinical symptoms and visual attentional deficits may represent separate aspects of ADHD in adults.

Validation of the Expanded Versions of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale v1.1 Symptom Checklist and the Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale

Objective: The aim of this study is to validate the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and Adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS) expanded versions, including executive function deficits (EFDs) and emotional dyscontrol (EC) items, and to present ASRS and AISRS pilot normative data. Method: Two patient samples (referred and primary care physician [PCP] controls) were pooled together for these analyses. Results: Final analysis included 297 respondents, 171 with adult ADHD. Cronbach's alphas were high for all sections of the scales. Examining histograms of ASRS 31-item and AISRS 18-item total scores for ADHD controls, 95% cutoff scores were 70 and 23, respectively; histograms for pilot normative sample suggest cutoffs of 82 and 26, respectively. Conclusion: (a) ASRS- and AISRS-expanded versions have high validity in assessment of core 18 adult ADHD Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) symptoms and EFD and EC symptoms. (b) ASRS (31-item) scores 70 to 82 and AISRS (18-item) scores from 23 to 26 suggest a high likelihood of adult ADHD.

Clinical effectiveness of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review

Neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, are common in children and adolescents, but treatment strategies remain limited. Although repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation has been studied for neurodevelopmental disorders, there is no clear consensus on its therapeutic effects. This systematic review examined literature on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders published up to 2018 using the PubMed database. The search identified 264 articles and 14 articles met eligibility criteria. Twelve of these studies used conventional repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and two studies used theta burst stimulation. No severe adverse effects were reported in these studies. In patients with autism spectrum disorder, low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and intermittent theta burst stimulation applied to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex may have therapeutic effects on social functioning and repetitive behaviors. In patients with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation applied to the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex may target inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. In patients with tic disorders, low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation applied to the bilateral supplementary motor area improved tic symptom severity. This systematic review suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may be a promising intervention for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders. The results warrant further large randomized controlled trials of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Efficacy, Acceptability, and Tolerability of Lisdexamfetamine, Mixed Amphetamine Salts, Methylphenidate, and Modafinil in the Treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Objective: Psychostimulants are the first-line treatment in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability of lisdexamfetamine (LDX), mixed amphetamine salts (MASs), modafinil (MDF), and methylphenidate (MPH) in comparison with placebo. Data Sources: We systematically searched PubMed/MEDLINE and Clinicaltrials.gov in May 2016, along with CENTRAL and EU Clinical Trials Register in February 2016, for the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trials conducted on adults diagnosed with ADHD. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Substantial comorbidity, substance abuse or dependence, and nonpharmacological interventions represented grounds for exclusion. Published reports were the sole source for data extraction. Improvement in ADHD symptoms was the primary outcome. Random-effects model meta-analysis was applied to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% CIs. Data Synthesis: The search retrieved 701 records, of which 20 studies were eligible for analysis. High effect size (expressed as SMD) in reducing ADHD symptoms was observed for LDX (−0.89; 95% CI = −1.09, −0.70), whereas MASs (−0.64; 95% CI = −0.83, −0.45) and MPH (−0.50; 95% CI = −0.58, −0.41) reduced symptoms moderately compared with placebo. No efficacy was shown for MDF (0.08; 95% CI; −0.18, 0.34). Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: In this meta-analysis, the efficacy, tolerability, and acceptability of psychostimulants were compared with that for placebo. Five of the included trials have not been evaluated in any of the previously published meta-analyses. Conclusions: The results suggest that LDX has the largest effect size and has a promising potential for treating adults with ADHD.

Delay Aversion and Executive Functioning in Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Before and After Stimulant Treatment

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a heterogeneous disorder, associated with deficits in motivation (e.g., delay aversion) and cognition. Methylphenidate is recommended as a first line treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms, but little is known about its nonacute effects on motivational and cognitive deficits, particularly in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

METHODS

We utilized a prospective, non-randomized, non-blinded, 6-week follow-up design with 42 initially stimulant medication-naïve adult patients with moderate to severe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and 42 age- and parental education-matched healthy controls. Delay aversion and executive functioning were assessed with 2 questionnaires and 5 performance-based tests.

RESULTS

At baseline, patients and controls differed significantly on performance-based measures (moderate to large effect sizes), and self-report of delay aversion and executive functioning (very large effect sizes). Treatment with methylphenidate medication (mean dose 65.54 mg/d, SD=10.39) was not associated with improvements in performance-based measures of delay aversion and executive functioning compared to controls, although improvements in self-report executive functioning and delay aversion were found. Self-reported delay aversion was most consistently associated with ADHD symptomatology at baseline and after medication.

CONCLUSION

Methylphenidate treatment does not have an effect on performance-based measures of delay aversion and executive functioning, but may have significant effects on self-reported delay aversion and executive functioning. The latter finding should be interpreted cautiously, given the subjective nature of these measures and design limitations. Self-reported delay aversion is most consistently associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptomatology.

How Informative Are Self-Reported Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms? An Examination of the Agreement Between the Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale V1.1 and Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Investigator Symptom Rating Scale

OBJECTIVES

Assess agreement between self-ratings via the adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Self-Report Scale (ASRS)-v1.1 Symptom Checklist and clinician ratings via the adult ADHD Investigator Symptom Rating Scale (AISRS) expanded version using DSM-5 adult ADHD patients (referred sample) and ADHD controls (recruited from a primary care physician practice).

METHODS

The ASRS v1.1 Symptom Checklist was administered to measure self-reported ADHD symptoms and impairment, the Adult ADHD Clinical Diagnostic Scale v1.2 was used to establish an adult ADHD diagnosis and the childhood and adult/current sections of the scale were used to provide scores to measure symptoms of childhood ADHD and recent symptoms of adult ADHD, the AISRS to measure ADHD current symptom severity.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 299; range 18-58), of which 171 were ADHD+ and 128 ADHD-. ASRS and AISRS total scores and individual subsections examining inattention, hyperactivity, emotional dysfunction (EF), and emotional dyscontrol (EC) were all significantly correlated (Spearman's ρ's = 0.78-0.89, ps < 0.01). Correlations remained significant when controlling for demographic factors and psychiatric conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASRS (self) and AISRS (clinician rated) scales have high agreement. This agreement extended not only the to the core 18 DSM symptoms, but also to the additional 13 symptoms that examine EC and EF.

Pharmacotherapy of emotional dysregulation in adults with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Emotional dysregulation (ED) is a dysfunction in modifying an emotional state in an adaptive and goal oriented way, with excitability, ease anger, and mood lability. It is present in up to 70% of adults with ADHD, regardless of other comorbidities, and substantially worsens the psychosocial outcomes of the disorder. Besides fronto-parietal circuits mediating top-down control, brain regions involved in bottom-up processes (e.g., amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex, and ventral striatum) are implicated in ED. We performed a systematic review/meta-analysis of double-blind randomized controlled trials of ADHD medications to assess their effects on ED in adults with ADHD. We searched an extensive set of databases, international trials registries, and contacted study authors/drug companies for unpublished data. We retained 21 trials. We found small-to-moderate effects (methylphenidate: SMD=0.34, 95% CI=0.23-0.45; atomoxetine: SMD=0.24, 95% CI=0.15-0.34; lisdexamfetamine: SMD=0.50, 95% CI=0.21-0.8). We suggest that, whilst ADHD medications are effective on ADHD core symptoms, they may be less effective on bottom-up mechanisms underlying ED. Further research on novel pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies for ED in adults with ADHD is warranted.

PROSPERO

CRD42017068426.

Optimizing outcomes in ADHD treatment: from clinical targets to novel delivery systems

Our knowledge and understanding of the underlying neurobiology and symptomatic expression of ADHD has advanced dramatically over the past decade. Associated with these advances has been a similar explosion of new treatment options to individualize treatment for our patients. This article will: ∙ review strategies to measure ADHD symptoms and functional difficulties while seeking to achieve full symptomatic remission throughout the day ∙ summarize recent findings regarding the management and prioritization of ADHD and comorbid conditions and ∙ discuss the various pharmacologic treatment options with a focus on recently developed molecules and novel delivery systems.