Methylphenidate for Attention Problems After Pediatric TBI
Traumatic Brain Injury, TBI, ADHD
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Traumatic Brain Injury focused on measuring TBI, traumatic brain injury, ADHD, methylphenidate, Concerta, attention problems
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- Between ages of 6-17
- Sustained Moderate to Severe TBI
- TBI occurred at least 6 months prior to beginning the study
- TBI occurred no earlier than 5 years of age
- Positive endorsement of 6 out of 9 items on the Vanderbilt ADHD inattention or hyperactivity scale
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of developmental disability or mental retardation
- Current active participation in ADHD-related behavioral intervention
- History of psychiatric condition requiring an inpatient admission in past 12 months
- Actively taking medications with a contraindication to Concerta that cannot be discontinued
- Current use of stimulant medication or ADHD specific medications that cannot be discontinued
- Non-blunt head injury
- Family history of arrhythmia
- Pregnancy
Sites / Locations
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Placebo Comparator
Methylphenidate
Placebo
The study medication will consist of identical capsules filled Concerta® over-encapsulated to preserve double-blinding. The weekly dosages will be low, medium, and high based on weight cut-offs. Participants weighing less than 25kg will receive 18mg (low), 27mg (medium), and 36mg (high) dosages and participants weighing above 25kg will receive 18mg (low), 36mg (medium), and 54mg (high) dosages during the 3-week upward titration trial. Weekly ratings monitoring behavioral and side effect symptoms score and the Pittsburgh Side Effects Rating Scale.
The study medication will consist of identical capsules filled with an inert white power (placebo). Weekly ratings monitoring behavioral and side effect symptoms score and the Pittsburgh Side Effects Rating Scale.