Understanding ADHD treatment in children with Down syndrome

Evaluating Assessment and Medication Treatment of ADHD in Children with Down Syndrome

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10914790

This study is looking at how common ADHD is in children with Down syndrome and aims to make it easier to diagnose and treat ADHD in these kids, including testing safe and effective medication options.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914790 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children with Down syndrome and aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in this population. It addresses the challenges of accurately diagnosing ADHD in children with intellectual disabilities and the underutilization of stimulant medications, which are effective treatments for ADHD. The study will include a pilot clinical trial to assess the safety and efficacy of stimulant medications in children with Down syndrome and ADHD, including those with congenital heart defects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have both Down syndrome and ADHD.

Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have a diagnosis of ADHD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for children with Down syndrome and ADHD, enhancing their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on stimulant medication use in children with Down syndrome and ADHD, the approach of investigating ADHD treatment in this population is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.