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Improving Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment Adherence and Outcome in Primary Care Settings

Not Applicable
Completed
Conditions
Attention Deficit Disorder With Hyperactivity
Interventions
Behavioral: Physician training
Registration Number
NCT00179894
Lead Sponsor
Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Brief Summary

This study will determine the effectiveness of educating pediatricians about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treatment guidelines in improving child behavior and pediatricians' adherence to medication guidelines.

Detailed Description

The most effective treatment for improving the core symptoms of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) involves the use of stimulant medications. Most children with ADHD are treated by pediatricians, but the treatment provided is often less than optimal. This study is designed to see if training for pediatricians in following guidelines for management of first-line medicines for ADHD leads to improvement in child behavior, and whether the physicians can adhere to the guidelines.

Over 100 studies have shown that stimulant medications are effective for improving the core symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Approximately 70% of children who receive ADHD medications are treated by their primary care pediatrician, but studies show that management is not always optimal. The present study is designed to see if child behavior can be improved by training pediatricians in the use of guidelines for treating ADHD, and whether the physicians can adhere to the guidelines. Twenty-four pediatric practices were randomized to a treatment as usual or specialized care (receiving training in guidelines and computer assisted monitoring of patient progress and medication titration). Children are assessed with parent and teacher reports at baseline, 4-, 9-, and 12-months post initiation of treatment, and classroom observations of behavior are assessed at baseline, 6-, and 12-months. Approximately 400 children are to be enrolled.

Recruitment & Eligibility

Status
COMPLETED
Sex
All
Target Recruitment
270
Inclusion Criteria
  • Presence of ADHD
  • Not currently on medication
Exclusion Criteria
  • No serious neurological disorders of sever mental health problems (suicidal behavior, autism)

Study & Design

Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Study Design
FACTORIAL
Arm && Interventions
GroupInterventionDescription
1 Physician trainingPhysician trainingPhysician participants will receive training in guidelines and medication monitoring
Primary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Behavior changes as rated by teachersMeasured at Month 12
Secondary Outcome Measures
NameTimeMethod
Behavior change as rated by parentsMeasured at Month 12
Behavior changes as rated by classroom observationMeasured at Month 12
Relation between adherence to protocol and behavior changeMeasured at Month 12

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

🇺🇸

Chicago, Illinois, United States

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