Ongoing Studies

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Sleep Studies for Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents with ADHD very commonly experience difficulty falling and staying sleep. Studies have shown that daytime sleepiness resulting from insufficient sleep impacts attention and learning. Therefore, treating sleep initiation difficulty in children with ADHD may not only improve sleep, but it could potentially improve ADHD symptoms as well.

 The Department of Ambulatory Pediatrics is currently recruiting children with ADHD and insomnia for a new clinical research study led by Dr. Judith Owens.

Study Descriptions

The main purpose of this study is to examine the effects of atomoxetine on ADHD-related insomnia. Atomoxetine (Strattera®) is a non-stimulant drug used to treat ADHD symptoms in both children and adults, and there is evidence that it may also have a positive effect on sleep in children with ADHD. During the study, participants will receive either atomoxetine or placebo for a period of four weeks and will be asked to complete seven visits to Rhode Island Hospital. Study procedures include psychological testing, a physical exam, blood pressure measurements, and monitoring of sleep at home with an activity monitor. All participants will be compensated for their time and travel.

Who’s Eligible?

Children and adolescents between the ages of 6 and 17 with ADHD and difficulty falling or staying asleep are eligible for participation in this study. Those with a history of chronic medical or psychiatric illnesses are not eligible to participate.