This study evaluated the effects of methylphenidate (MPH), a stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in healthy adults without ADHD. Although MPH is sometimes used by students and athletes to improve concentration or performance, its true benefits and risks in healthy individuals are uncertain. The purpose of this study was to determine whether short-term use of MPH improves thinking ability, physical performance, cardiovascular function, balance, muscle strength, or heart safety in healthy adults. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, 28 healthy adult participants received either MPH (20 mg daily) or a placebo for 14 days, followed by a washout period and then the alternate treatment. Participants underwent repeated testing of heart rate, blood pressure, exercise capacity, balance, muscle strength, cognitive function, and heart electrical activity (ECG).
Age range
18 Years – 50 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
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.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
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.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Peak Oxygen Consumption (VO₂peak)
Timeframe: Baseline (pre-intervention), after 14 days of placebo, and after 14 days of methylphenidate (post-intervention, following crossover design)