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Does hair zinc predict amphetamine improvement of ADD/hyperactivity?
L E Arnold1, N A Votolato, D Kleykamp
1Department of Psychiatry, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
The International Journal of Neuroscience
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Children with ADHD may respond better to stimulant medication if they have adequate zinc levels. Lower zinc may indicate poorer response to amphetamine treatment in boys with ADHD.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder.
- Stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine are frequently prescribed for ADHD.
- Nutritional factors, such as zinc levels, may influence treatment response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between zinc levels and the response to dextroamphetamine in boys with ADHD.
- To determine if baseline zinc status predicts stimulant medication efficacy.
Main Methods:
- A balanced crossover study involving 18 boys (ages 6-12) with ADHD.
- Comparison of dextroamphetamine treatment versus placebo over one-month periods.
- Measurement of baseline hair zinc levels and 24-hour urinary zinc excretion.
- Correlation analysis with hyperactivity ratings and urinary MHPG levels.
Main Results:
- Higher baseline hair zinc levels significantly predicted a better placebo-controlled response to dextroamphetamine.
- Urinary zinc levels in ADHD patients were significantly lower than in normal controls.
- Correlations between zinc and urinary MHPG were in the expected direction but not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Some children with ADHD may have mild zinc deficiency, potentially leading to a poorer response to stimulant medications.
- Baseline zinc status could be a factor in predicting stimulant response in ADHD treatment.
- Further research is warranted to explore the role of zinc in ADHD pathophysiology and treatment.