Working Memory in ADHD

• PTSD by (No author), 5/24/96
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    • Interference wit h memory by Don Nathanson, 6/22/96
      
      

Here are a few references:

Tannock R, Ickowicz A, Schachar R Differential effects of methylphenidate on working *memory* in ADHD children with and without comorbid anxiety. Department of Psychiatry-Research Unit, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 1995 Jul;34(7):886-96 OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on working *memory* and behavior in anxious and nonanxious children with *attention-deficit* hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHOD: A total of 40 ADHD children (22 nonanxious, 18 anxious) completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial with three doses (0.3, 0.6, 0.9 mg/kg) of MPH. A serial addition task was used to assess working *memory;* direct observation of motor activity indexed behavior. RESULTS: MPH improved working *memory* in the nonanxious ADHD group but not in the comorbidity anxious group. By contrast, MPH reduced activity level in both groups. The presence of concurrent learning disabilities did not influence stimulant response. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of comorbid anxiety in children with ADHD predicts a less robust response to stimulant treatment and suggests that ADHD with anxiety may constitute a distinct and clinically meaningful subtype of ADHD.

Rapport MD, Carlson GA, Kelly KL, Pataki C Methylphenidate and desipramine in hospitalized children: I. Separate and combined effects on cognitive function. Department of Psychology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu 96822. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 1993 Mar;32(2):333-42 OBJECTIVE: The separate and combined effects of methylphenidate and desipramine on cognitive function were investigated in 16 psychiatrically hospitalized children with primary, secondary, and mixed features of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and mood disorder. METHOD: A double-blind, placebo controlled, crossover design was used to investigate drug effects on vigilance, short-term memory,

• Thanks by Don Nathanson, 6/23/96