Journal: Brain Stimulation (2017)
Authors: Y Paz, K Friedwald, Y Levkovitz, A Zangen, U Alyagon, A Segev, H Maoz, M Koubi, Y Bloch
Background:
Studies of the pathophysiology of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder) have exemplified hemispheric asymmetry that possibly typifies ADHD patients from controls with right prefrontal under activation. Recent studies support possible effectiveness of rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) as treatment for ADHD. Deciding about the target for stimulation is complex as there is evidence for a possible beneficial effect of both right and left prefrontal activation on cognitive functions.
Objective:
To evaluate the safety and possible efficacy of bilateral prefrontal deep rTMS for the treatment of adult ADHD.
Methods:
Twenty-six adult ADHD patients were randomized blindly to Sham or active deep TMS. Twenty daily sessions were conducted using the bilateral H5 deep TMS coil (Briansway, IL) to stimulate the prefrontal cortex at 120% of the motor threshold at high frequency. For assessment the Connors’ Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CARRS) Questionnaire and, a computerized continuous performance test (Test of Variables Attention (TOVA)) were used.
Results:
No differences in clinical outcomes were detected between the active dTMS and sham groups.
Conclusions:
The presented evidence does not support the utility of the bilateral prefrontal stimulation and future studies should probably evaluate right unilateral stimulation.
