Psychostimulant effects on academic and behavioral measures for ADHD junior high school students in a lecture format classroom

J Abnorm Child Psychol. 1991 Oct;19(5):537-52. doi: 10.1007/BF00925819.

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of two doses of psychostimulants on nine ADHD students' performance in a classroom designed to be analogous to a junior high school American history class conducted during a summer treatment program. Double-blind, placebo-controlled assessment revealed significant and clinically important effects of psychostimulants on quiz and test performance, observations of attention and behavior during lectures, and teacher ratings, as well as accuracy on assignments completed during study hall. Analysis of individual differences revealed a 66% positive response rate. The implications for use of psychostimulants with ADHD young adolescents are discussed.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Achievement*
  • Adolescent
  • Attention / drug effects*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / therapeutic use*
  • Pemoline / therapeutic use*
  • Social Environment*

Substances

  • Methylphenidate
  • Pemoline