Testing ADHD treatment in incarcerated individuals

Benefits of In-prison OROS-methylphenidate vs. Placebo Treatment in Detained People With Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Phase 3 Interventional University Hospital, Geneva · NCT05842330

This study is testing if a medication for ADHD can help people in prison manage their symptoms and improve their behavior during and after their time behind bars.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Geneva Academic / other
Locations1 site (Geneva, Canton of Geneva)
Trial IDNCT05842330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of OROS-methylphenidate compared to a placebo in treating ADHD symptoms among incarcerated individuals over a three-month period. The study will utilize a randomized controlled trial design, assessing not only the core symptoms of ADHD but also the impact on behavior, recidivism rates, and medication adherence both during and after incarceration. Participants will receive cognitive-behavioral psycho-education while detained and have access to cognitive-behavioral therapy post-release. The study seeks to provide comprehensive evidence on the benefits of ADHD treatment in a prison setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 who have a clinical diagnosis of ADHD and are fluent in French.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled psychiatric disorders or those already receiving ADHD treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce ADHD symptoms and associated negative outcomes, including recidivism, in incarcerated individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While ADHD treatment in prison settings is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promising results in improving outcomes for individuals with ADHD in various contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* age between 18 and 65
* good command of French
* stay in prison approx. 4 months at eligibility visit
* endorsing clinical diagnostic criteria for DSM-5 ADHD
* providing written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* presence of an acute uncontrolled comorbid psychiatric disorder
* medical contraindication to stimulant prescription
* potential adverse interaction with another medication
* already receive ADHD treatment

Where this trial is running

Geneva, Canton of Geneva

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 ADHDPrisonHealth careAdherence to treatmentRecidivism
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.