Efficacy of Methylphenidate for Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet
Addiction in Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Andrea      Salvati; Gianluca      Sesso; Francesca      Lenzi; Gabriele      Masi; Stefano      Berloffa

doi:10.2174/0113816128281014240124074845

Abstract

Background: Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and Internet Addiction (IA) are related clinical conditions often comorbid with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Objective: We evaluated the efficacy of MPH for IGD/IA symptoms in ADHD patients.

Methods: We enrolled 38 drug-naive patients diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and IGD/IA. At baseline, all patients underwent a clinical assessment for IGD/IA symptoms and then received the most appropriate therapy according to their clinical profile. Twenty-one patients received MPH (methylphenidate) treatment, and 17 patients did not. Patients were re-evaluated after three months of treatment.

Results: Findings revealed significant reductions in IGD/IA symptoms over time, while no significant effect of MPH on symptom reduction was found. Clinical predictors of symptom reduction were identified, including IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and comorbid anxiety.

Conclusion: This longitudinal prospective study contributes to the understanding of IGD/IA treatment in ADHD patients and highlights the importance of considering individual clinical characteristics when predicting treatment response. However, MPH may not directly impact IGD/IA symptom reduction.

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DOI https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0113816128281014240124074845	Print ISSN 1381-6128
Publisher Name Bentham Science Publisher	Online ISSN 1873-4286

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Efficacy of Methylphenidate for Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Addiction in Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

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