Cognitive Training for ADHD

Overseen By Michael Kofler, PhD

Age: < 18

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Florida State University

Disqualifiers: Seizure disorder, Psychosis, Bipolar, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: 6-8 weeks

251 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.

What evidence supports the effectiveness of the treatment Central Executive Training for ADHD?

Research shows that training inhibitory control, a part of Central Executive Training, can improve certain cognitive tasks in children with ADHD, like shifting attention. However, the overall benefits of cognitive training for ADHD symptoms are generally small and may vary depending on the setting. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Is cognitive training for ADHD safe for humans?

The research does not report any safety concerns related to cognitive training for ADHD, suggesting it is generally safe for humans. ^{2 6 7 8 9}

How does the Central Executive Training for ADHD differ from other treatments?

Central Executive Training for ADHD is unique because it focuses on improving working memory and inhibitory control through cognitive exercises, rather than using medication. This approach can enhance brain function in areas related to attention and impulse control, potentially mimicking some effects of traditional ADHD medications without the use of drugs. ^{2 3 4 8 10}

What is the purpose of this trial?

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.

Eligibility Criteria

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.

Inclusion Criteria

The parent and teacher ratings for ADHD-RS-5 or BASC-3 Attention Problems/Hyperactivity subscales were in the clinical/borderline range based on age and gender.

This study is looking for people with ADHD who have a working memory that is below average or lower than normal on at least one pre-treatment WM test.

Children ages 8-12 with principal ADHD diagnoses (via Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders semi-structured clinical interviewing (K-SADS)

Exclusion Criteria

Conditions requiring acute intervention, e.g., active suicidality

Gross neurological, sensory, or motor impairment

History of seizure disorder, psychosis, bipolar, or severe dysregulation disorders that may interfere with study participation (substance use, disruptive mood dysregulation, intermittent explosive, reactive attachment)

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants undergo Central Executive Training (CET) for ADHD, focusing on working memory and inhibitory control

6-8 weeks

Weekly sessions (in-person or virtual)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments of ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance

2-4 months

Follow-up testing sessions

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Central Executive Training: Inhibitory Control
• Central Executive Training: Working Memory

Trial Overview 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.

Participant Groups

Group I: CET-Working Memory (WM) Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Central Executive Training: Working Memory

Group II: CET-Behavioral Inhibition (BI) Active Control 1 Intervention

Central Executive Training: Inhibitory Control

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Florida State University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

234

Recruited

41,100+

References

1. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[Formula: see text] Does training working memory or inhibitory control produce far-transfer improvements in set shifting for children with ADHD? A randomized controlled trial. [2023]

2. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Computerized cognitive training in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with blinded and objective outcomes. [2023]

3. Switzerland pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Which Factor Is More Relevant to the Effectiveness of the Cognitive Intervention? A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of Cognitive Training on Symptoms and Executive Function Behaviors of Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. [2022]

4. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Training of working memory in children with ADHD. [2022]

5. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Do programs designed to train working memory, other executive functions, and attention benefit children with ADHD? A meta-analytic review of cognitive, academic, and behavioral outcomes. [2018]

6. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Central executive training for ADHD: Effects on academic achievement, productivity, and success in the classroom. [2023]

7. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Computerized Cognitive Training for ADHD as an Add-On Treatment to Stimulants: A Randomized Clinical Trial. [2021]

8. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Enhanced neural activity in frontal and cerebellar circuits after cognitive training in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. [2021]

9. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of computerized cognitive training as add-on treatment to stimulants in ADHD: a pilot fMRI study. [2021]

10. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A preliminary study of the effects of working memory training on brain function. [2018]