The Role of Pharmacotherapy in Social Cognition, Empathy, and Serum Oxytocin Levels in Children with Attention...

Background/Objectives: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognized for its impact on social functioning, including deficits in social cognition and empathy. Emerging neurobiological evidence highlights the potential role of oxytocin in these impairments. However, the influence of pharmacotherapy, particularly methylphenidate (MPH) and atomoxetine (ATX), on these domains remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the effects of MPH and ATX on social cognition, empathy, and serum oxytocin levels in children with ADHD. Methods: This study included 152 children aged 6-12 years diagnosed solely with ADHD. The patient group consisted of 102 children, comprising n = 52 receiving MPH and n = 50 receiving ATX for at least 3 months. The control group comprised 50 newly diagnosed, untreated children. A sociodemographic form, the Social Skills Rating Scale (SRSS), the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET), the Bryant Empathy Index (BEI), and the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Questionnaire (SNAP-IV) were applied. Serum oxytocin levels were measured via venous blood samples. Results: Medicated children exhibited significantly elevated SRSS scores, irrespective of the pharmacotherapy administered. RMET scores were significantly higher in the ATX group. No significant differences were found between the three groups in terms of empathy scores and serum oxytocin levels. A significant negative correlation was identified between ADHD symptom severity and RMET and SRSS-Total scores. Regular medication use was a significant predictor of SRSS scores, while empathy and serum oxytocin levels were nonsignificant predictors. Conclusions: Pharmacotherapy may enhance social cognition among children with ADHD. Longitudinal studies are warranted to assess the long-term effects of medication on social cognition and empathy.