An examination of the effects of stimulant medication on response inhibition: A comparison between children with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

This study investigated whether methylphenidate is effective in improving response inhibition in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children with ADHD were compared with normally developing children on measures of response inhibition. Participants with ADHD were compared across two conditions – medicated and unmedicated. There was no significant difference between the inhibitory control of children with and without ADHD. Children with ADHD showed significant improvements in inhibitory control following methylphenidate. The findings of the present study contrast with previous studies which document reduced inhibitory control in ADHD, compared with normally developing children. Reports of methylphenidate improving functioning in children with ADHD are supported. Limitation and implications of the study are discussed.

► We investigated whether methylphenidate was effective in improving response inhibition in children with ADHD.
► Children with ADHD were compared with normally developing children on measures of response inhibition.
► Participants with ADHD were compared across two conditions – medicated and unmedicated.
► There was no significant difference between the inhibitory control of children with and without ADHD.
► Children with ADHD showed significant improvements in inhibitory control following methylphenidate.