Reduction of Loss of Control Eating in Youth With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Following Initiation of...

This prospective observational study aimed to examine changes in loss of control eating (LOC-E) over a 3-month period in youth with comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and LOC-E who initiated stimulant medication. Secondary objectives included examining changes in eating disorder cognitions, ADHD symptoms, reward sensitivity, impulsivity, and mood/anxiety symptoms.

Ten youth aged 8 to 13 years (50% female) with diagnosed ADHD and LOC-E were recruited from private practices in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Participants initiated stimulant pharmacotherapy (methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) and completed baseline and 3-month follow-up assessments. Measures included semi-structured interviews and validated questionnaires assessing LOC-E frequency, eating disorder cognitions, ADHD symptoms, reward sensitivity, and mood/anxiety.

LOC-E episode frequency decreased from a baseline mean of 10.30 episodes (SD=6.17) to 2.10 episodes (SD=1.37) at follow-up. Nine of 10 participants reported reduced LOC-E, with one reporting full cessation. Improvements were also observed in eating disorder cognitions, ADHD symptoms, and mood/anxiety. Changes in reward sensitivity were small and variable.

Findings provide preliminary support for a potential relationship between stimulant medication and reduced LOC-E and associated symptoms in youth with ADHD and comorbid LOC-E. Results mostly align with prior adult studies evaluating lisdexamfetamine for binge-eating disorder. Larger, controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and investigate neurocognitive mechanisms. This study offers early evidence to inform future pharmacological approaches to treat ADHD and LOC-E in youth.