Modafinil Leads to Significant Improvement in Some Subtypes of ADHD

New research provides evidence that Modafinil can greatly improve symptoms in children with inattentive or combined type ADHD.

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston have found evidence supporting the use of Modafinil in the treatment of children with inattentive type or combined types ADHD. Modafinil, marketed under the brand name Provigil, is a psychostimulant that may cause less anxiety, excessive motor activity, and "jitteriness" than traditional stimulants.

The current research used 3 double-blind placebo studies, meaning that in each study neither the participants themselves nor those treating them knew whether they were taking the medication or a placebo. The study participants included children aged six- to 17-years-old and included children diagnosed with each of the three subtypes of ADHD.

Questionnaires to measure the functioning of each child were administered to parents, teachers, and clinicians after 7 to 9 weeks. Children with inattentive or combined types of ADHD showed significant improvements in symptoms and functioning both at home and school, providing evidence that Modafinil may be an effective treatment for children with these subtypes.