Repetitive Transcranial Photobiomodulation Improves Working Memory and Attention in Adults with ADHD: A 4-Week...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by working memory (WM) deficits and inattention.
• Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) is an emerging brain stimulation technique with potential cognitive-enhancing effects.
• Adult ADHD presents significant challenges in daily functioning due to persistent cognitive impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of tPBM in enhancing WM and attention in adults with ADHD.
• To identify baseline factors that predict treatment response to tPBM.
• To assess the safety and tolerability of tPBM in this population.

Main Methods:

• Forty-eight adults with ADHD received a 7-day tPBM intervention (1064-nm wavelength).
• Cognitive performance was assessed using N-back WM and Continuous Performance Test-Identical Pairs (CPT-IP) tasks at multiple time points.
• Safety was monitored using the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in 2-back, 3-back, cpt-3, and cpt-4 tasks (p < 0.001).
• Peak treatment effects were noted 2-3 weeks post-intervention, with large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 0.84-1.26).
• Lower baseline cognitive performance predicted greater improvement; the intervention was well-tolerated with minimal adverse events.

Conclusions:

• tPBM demonstrates effectiveness in improving working memory and attention in adults with ADHD.
• The intervention is safe and well-tolerated, with sustained benefits observed post-treatment.
• tPBM presents a promising non-pharmacological therapeutic option for managing ADHD symptoms.