Could ritalin sharpen your mind if you have epilepsy?

NCT ID NCT04419272

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether methylphenidate (Ritalin), a drug used for ADHD, can improve attention and memory in adults with epilepsy. 226 participants will be randomly assigned to take either the drug or a placebo for 8 weeks, then all can take the drug for another 8 weeks. The goal is to see if it safely helps with cognitive problems common in epilepsy.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a safe, FDA-approved medication to help with memory and attention problems in people with epilepsy.
What could go wrong: This is a phase 4 trial, but it's still uncertain if methylphenidate helps epilepsy-related cognitive issues. Stimulants can have side effects like anxiety or insomnia.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

epilepsy focal epilepsy visual epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

EPILEPSY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Miami VA Healthcare System, Miami, FL
RECRUITING

Miami, Florida, 33125, United States
VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02130-4817, United States
VA NY Harbor Healthcare System, New York, NY
RECRUITING

New York, New York, 10010-5011, United States
VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR
RECRUITING

Portland, Oregon, 97207-2964, United States

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