Can a common ADHD drug help kids with down syndrome?

NCT ID NCT04219280

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether a long-acting liquid stimulant medication (Quillivant XR) can safely and effectively reduce ADHD symptoms in children with Down syndrome, who are at higher risk for ADHD but often go untreated. The study will compare the medication against a placebo in about 100 children aged 6 to 17. Researchers will measure changes in ADHD symptoms, emotional regulation, and behavior using parent and teacher reports.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Quillivant XR (a long-acting liquid stimulant medication)
What this could lead to: If effective, this could provide evidence that stimulant medication is a safe and useful option for managing ADHD in children with Down syndrome, potentially improving their daily functioning and quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage trial in a specific population, and results may not apply to all children. Stimulant medications can have side effects, and the trial's success is not guaranteed.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, inattentive type attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder Down syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADHD DOWN SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Locations

Boston Children's Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center

Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, United States
University of California Davis MIND Institute

Sacramento, California, 95817, United States
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15203, United States

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