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ADHD Meds: Finding the Perfect Dose
15 May
Summary
- Study analyzed over 25,000 participants from 113 clinical trials.
- New tool helps patients and clinicians choose optimal ADHD medication doses.
- Effective ADHD treatment requires timely, adequate dose adjustments.
Researchers have identified optimal dosages for commonly prescribed ADHD medications, a significant advancement for treating the neurodevelopmental condition. A large-scale study, published on May 14th, 2026, in The Lancet Psychiatry, synthesized data from 113 clinical trials involving more than 25,000 individuals.
An international team, led by Professor Samuele Cortese from the University of Southampton, employed advanced dose-effects network meta-analysis. This method precisely estimated how various medication doses impact both symptom control and potential side effects.
The findings reveal that ideal dosages vary by medication and age group. Clinicians are advised against using doses too low for effectiveness, while noting no benefit from exceeding licensed maximums. Higher doses generally correlate with increased side effects, though individual responses may differ.
To aid treatment decisions, a free online tool has been developed. It supports shared decision-making between healthcare providers, patients, and families. This tool clarifies expected outcomes for each dose, promoting patient understanding and involvement in their treatment plan.
