CompletedPhase 3

Effect of Working Memory Training on ADHD Brain Function

United States37 participantsStarted 2009-07

Plain-language summary

There is evidence both that computer-administered cognitive training can improve ADHD working memory deficits and that this type of training in non-ADHD enhances normal working memory ability by altering brain activity in prefrontal cortex and the parietal lobe. However, no study has characterized brain activity changes following working memory training in ADHD to understand what neural changes occur when cognitive deficits are remedied. This R21 exploratory study will examine the neural basis of cognitive training treatment gains in working memory, ADHD symptoms, and various other executive abilities. We will test the hypothesis that working memory training increases frontoparietal brain activation and examine other regions to see if there is any evidence for "neural compensation" (i.e., engagement of brain regions after training that are not normally recruited for task performance).

Who can participate

Age range

13 Years – 17 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Participants will be 13-17 years old and \>6th grade English reading level to complete self-report evaluations (most are only available in English). ADHD-C participants must meet DSM-IV criteria (314.01). Exclusion Criteria: * Head injury sufficient to have caused \>30 minutes lost consciousness; past or current CNS disease (e.g. stroke, MS, epilepsy or any repeated seizure history, tumor, etc) or brain lesion identified by MR (structural MR scans will be reviewed by a radiologist for the presence of clinical neuropathology that may affect cognitive task performance); Axis I DSM-IV lifetime history Bipolar disorder, psychotic disorder, OCD, PTSD, Tourette's disorder, Pervasive developmental disorder (e.g., Autistic disorder, PDD NOS, etc.); current DSM-IV substance dependence, Major Depressive Disorder or anxiety disorder; hypertension or juvenile-onset diabetes (current treatment with antihypertensives or insulin); current pregnancy (menstruating females will be tested); IQ estimate \<80; left-handedness; psychotropic medication other than common psychostimulants that act primarily on dopamine neurotransmission systems. For instance, ADHD-C medications such as Wellbutrin (Buproprion), Strattera (Atomoxetine HCl), Cylert (Pemoline), or Provigil (Modafinil) will exclude participation; report of psychotic illness in first degree relative. Note, current DSM-IV disorders serve as exclusionary criteria to avoid the possibility of acute brain activity diffe…

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Timeframe: 5 weeks

Trial details

NCT IDNCT02151396

SponsorHartford Hospital

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2013-02

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (Combined-subtype) trials