Neural markers of methylphenidate response in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and the impact on executive function

Abstract

Background Currently, objective biomarkers of methylphenidate (MPH) for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are lacking. Many symptoms of ADHD are associated with impaired executive function. We investigated the effects of MPH on executive function based on an electroencephalogram (EEG) and looked for biomarkers of responsiveness to methylphenidate in ADHD. Methods Twenty-two children with ADHD (18 males, 4 females; mean age 8.72 ± 1.46 years). All patients were treated with oral MPH 18 mg/day in the morning for 8 weeks. Executive function assessment and event-related potential (ERP) acquisition were completed at baseline and after 8 weeks of MPH treatment. Results We found that the BRIEF2 multiple factor scores in children with ADHD were significantly reduced after treatment with MPH (P < 0.05). The correct response time was lower than that at baseline, and the correctness rate was higher than that at baseline (P = 0.011, P = 0.016). Nogo-P300 latency at Fz was shorter than that at baseline (P < 0.001), and the latency at Pz was shorter than at baseline (P < 0.001). Conclusions Normalization of the P300 components by MPH is a predictor of efficacy in children with ADHD who respond positively to this treatment. Thus, MPH can improve executive function deficits.