Sleep and Tolerability Study: Comparing the Effects of Adderall XR and Focalin XR

Study Summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate how children and adolescents with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) respond to treatment with three differing doses of stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, Adderall XR® and Focalin XR®. Another purpose of the study is to evaluate if there are differences in sleep and other side effects, such as changes in mood or loss of appetite, which can occur with stimulant medications. A third purpose is to determine if there are differences in the characteristics of individuals who respond better to either of the medications. This research is being done because the investigators do not know if one of these two commonly used treatments is better tolerated than the other. Children and adolescents with ADHD often have a hard time sitting still, playing quietly, finishing things they start, paying attention, waiting their turn, and not distracting others. These medications improve these symptoms, but sometimes affect sleep, appetite, or mood. It is hypothesized that at effective and frequently prescribed doses, Adderall will be associated with insomnia, more stimulant side effects, and decreased tolerability during an acute trial relative to Focalin.

Primary Outcome

Actigraphs (AW64 series) were worn each night and were used to assess participant's sleep patterns in their natural home environment. These computerized wristwatch-like devices collect data generated by movements. They are minimally invasive and allow sleep to be recorded reliably without interfering with the family's routine. One-minute epochs were used to analyze actigraphic sleep sata. Bedtimes and wake times were reported for each participant using sleep logs, and these times were used as th

Interventions

• DRUG placebo
• DRUG Dexmethylphenidate
• DRUG Mixed Amphetamine Salts, ER