Medications do not necessarily normalize cognition in ADHD patients.
C Thomas Gualtieri1, Lynda G Johnson
1North Carolina Neuropsychiatry Clinics, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA. tg@ncneuropsych.com
Journal of Attention Disorders
|October 16, 2007
Summary
ADHD medications improve behavior but not all cognitive functions. Even with treatment, many ADHD patients show persistent neurocognitive impairments, suggesting a need for additional support.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medications effectively manage behavioral symptoms.
- Limited data exists on the cognitive effects of ADHD medications in community-based populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurocognitive effects of three common ADHD medications (Adderall XR, atomoxetine, Concerta) in adolescents.
- To compare cognitive performance between treated ADHD patients, untreated ADHD patients, and normal controls.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 177 treated ADHD patients (aged 10-18), 95 untreated ADHD patients, and 101 normal controls.
- Neurocognitive screening using a computerized battery.
- Patients received Adderall XR (AMP), atomoxetine (ATMX), or Concerta (MPH-OROS).
Main Results:
- Significant cognitive differences were observed between normal controls and untreated ADHD patients.
- Treated ADHD patients demonstrated improved performance compared to untreated patients.
- However, treated ADHD patients still exhibited significant neurocognitive impairments relative to normal controls.
Conclusions:
- Optimal ADHD medication treatment does not fully resolve neurocognitive deficits.
- Subtle and overt cognitive impairments persist in medicated ADHD patients, as reported by parents and teachers.
- Additional educational support may be necessary for some ADHD patients, even with effective medication.
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