Evaluating how ADHD medication affects physical performance in teenage boys

The Effect of Pharmacological Treatment for ADHD on Physical Performance in Male Adolescents

Observational Loewenstein Hospital · NCT05517785

This study is trying to see how ADHD medication affects physical performance in teenage boys aged 15 to 18 by comparing their motor skills when they take their usual medication versus when they don't.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 18 Years
SexMale
SponsorLoewenstein Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Netanya)
Trial IDNCT05517785 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the impact of stimulant medications for ADHD on motor performance in male adolescents aged 15 to 18. A total of 70 participants will be recruited and evaluated in a crossover design, where they will perform various motor function tests under two conditions: after taking their usual medication and after postponing it. The tests will include plank holds, single leg stance, standing long jump, agility tests, and shuttle runs, all conducted in a familiar school environment. The goal is to understand how these medications influence physical performance.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are high school male students aged 15 to 18 with a diagnosis of ADHD currently treated with stimulant medications.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic diseases, recent acute illnesses, or injuries that limit physical activity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how ADHD medications affect physical abilities, potentially guiding treatment decisions.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on ADHD medications are common, this specific focus on physical performance in adolescents is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* High school male students
* Diagnosis of ADHD
* Treatment with prescribed stimulants for ADHD (e.g. Concerta, Ritalin, Phenidin, Focalin etc.).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Students with concomitant chronic disease (including asthma, cardiac, motor, neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances)
* History of acute illness in the previous two weeks
* Any injuries that would inhibit the ability to exercise or play sport
* Students unable to obtain parental/guardian consent
* Students unwilling to participate

Where this trial is running

Netanya

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ADHD
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.