The first-ever device to treat pediatric attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has received clearance from the US FDA in April of this year, as trials have produced a meaningful reduction in ADHD symptoms.
The typically used standard of treatment involves medication (usually a stimulant) and behavioral therapy. This new device, the external Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation (eTNS) system is an alternative option for the millions of children struggling with ADHD.
Designed for children 7 – 12 years of age, the eTNS is a small electronic device that delivers low-level stimulation to the brain’s trigeminal nerve through electrodes applied to the forehead at bedtime.
Researchers from UCLA conducted a clinical trial with 62 children ages 8 to 12 who had moderate to severe ADHD. Each child was treated at home for four weeks using either the eTNS system or a placebo device. The results showed significant improvement in the children treated with the eTNS system including an increased activity in the middle and right frontal regions of the brain, which help regulate attention and emotions.
Side effects experienced by the children treated with eTNS included fatigue, headache and increased appetite. Children treated with stimulants experience more undesirable side effects such as weight loss and insomnia.
Future studies are planned to better understand the device’s utility, long term-effects on ADHD symptoms and brain health.