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RecruitingPhase 4ACTRN12619001752156

Investigating the influence of methylphenidate on perceptual decisions in healthy, young adults

Clarifying the role of methylphenidate on distractor processing through event-related potentials in healthy controls.

Sponsor

Monash University

Enrollment

35 participants

Start Date

May 14, 2021

Study Type

Interventional

Conditions

Symptoms of hyperactivitySymptoms of inattention

Summary

This study aims to clarify the role of neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline in distractor processing. While previously shown to improve attention, it is unclear what neural processes underpin this effect. We intend to use EEG analysis, a task that implements distracting stimuli, and administration of a drug that increases transmission of dopamine and noradrenaline (methylphenidate) to help us understand the neural mechanisms of this effect.

Eligibility

Sex: Both males and femalesMin Age: 18 YearssMax Age: 45 Yearss

Inclusion Criteria3

  • All four grandparents Caucasian - to ensure consistency in drug absorption rates
  • Right handed - to reduce noise associated with differences in organisation of brain function
  • Females taking combined oral contraceptive pill - to control for any differing absorption rates that may be the result of fluctuating hormones

Exclusion Criteria6

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding - to prevent any potential risk of harm methylphenidate may cause for unborn or newborn children
  • History of psychiatric or neurological illness (including head injuries) - such conditions may confound results
  • Use of psychotropic medication or significant drug use - could confound results, as any possible alteration in brain function from previous drug use may interfere with substances administered in this study
  • Current smokers - May influence sensitivity of nicotine receptors
  • Alcohol dependence (more than 24 units/week) - may influence dopamine receptor availability or sensitivity
  • Individuals with contraindications to methylphenidate

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Interventions

Drug Intervention A single dose of 30mg of methylphenidate will be administered in one testing session via an oral capsule. A gelatin filled placebo capsule will be administered in the second session

Drug Intervention A single dose of 30mg of methylphenidate will be administered in one testing session via an oral capsule. A gelatin filled placebo capsule will be administered in the second session in a counterbalanced order, with the two sessions separated by 7 days.

Locations(1)

VIC, Australia

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ACTRN12619001752156