An Objective Assessment of Effect of Stimulants on Attention in Individuals With ADHD

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, assessing ADHD treatment response to stimulants relies on rating scales and subjective questionnaires and sometimes a CPT. Such tools fall short of objective, quantifiable measurement of effect, especially in natural settings and can result in inconsistent treatment. Method: We report results from two studies using a novel proof-of-concept approach. A preliminary trial of 10 individuals used a high-fidelity eye tracker; a second study of 100 individuals used webcams at the participants’ homes. Results: Both studies evaluated stimulant effect using reading behavior analysis, being an ADHD symptom that stimulants affect and a major symptom patients want to improve. Both showed a significant change in reading behavior related to medication state, suggesting a clear, objective measure of stimulant effect. Conclusion: Using ubiquitous hardware, investigators created a user-friendly treatment assessment platform where individuals can collect their own objective data within minutes in any setting where they have access to a web camera and computer.