Emerging digital interventions for ADHD: an overview of ongoing clinical trials

Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Analyzing registered clinical trials on digital interventions for ADHD can provide early insight into planned research directions. The study aims to review registered clinical trials to identify and characterize emerging research on digital interventions for ADHD.

Methods: We systematically searched ClinicalTrials.gov, the EU Clinical Trials Registry and the WHO ICTRP for ongoing trials of digital interventions for ADHD.

Results: Of 149 identified trials, 35 ongoing studies met inclusion criteria. The most common interventions were mobile apps (14), computerized training (6), virtual reality (5), and web-based programs (5). Intervention durations were typically 6–15 weeks (23), most commonly 12 weeks. Primary outcomes assessed included ADHD symptoms and neurocognitive functions (23), followed by emotional/psychological outcomes (18) and family-related outcomes (12).

Discussion and conclusion: Registered trial protocols indicate a growing interest in digital approaches for ADHD, particularly app-based, medium-term interventions targeting both children and adults. However, as these findings are based on ongoing trials registrations rather than completed studies, conclusions regarding effectiveness cannot yet be drawn. The limited conclusion of safety-reported outcomes represents a critical gap that may constrain the future real-world applicability of these interventions.