Trial of Methylphenidate for the Treatment of Children with ADHD and FASD

Key DFM Personnel

Michael Fleming, MD, MPH - Principal Investigator
Patricia Cameron, MS - Researcher
Tanya Jagodinzki, MD - Pediatrician
Troy Kleist, MD - Pediatrician
Marlon Mundt, MA, MS - Data Analyst
Judie Pfeifer, MEd - Project Coordinator and IRB Contact

Funding

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Summary

FASD is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in individuals who were prenatally exposed to alcohol and may include physical, mental, behavioral, and/or learning disabilities. The methylphenidate (Ritalin) trial is for children diagnosed with FASD and also diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Goal

The primary goal is to test whether daily methylphenidate administered for 5 days for the treatment of ADHD in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder will improve behavior and attention. The long-term goal is to increase the ability of children with FASD to learn and succeed as independent adults.
Method: This is a randomized, double blinded, placebo controlled, cross over study with a sample of 20 children, 6-17 years of age. Recruitment is ongoing through the Waisman Center and physician referral. Outcomes are based on parent and teacher rating scales of the children.

Significance

There may be benefits to the children in the study such as improved behavior, longer attention spans and increased learning. The results may also provide valuable information and evidence to help those who care for children with ADHD and FASD.