Can ritalin Jump-Start the brain after a coma?
NCT ID NCT03814356
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This early-stage trial tests whether a stimulant drug (methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin) given through an IV can safely help people with severe brain injuries regain consciousness. Ten adults in a coma or minimally conscious state will receive increasing doses to check for side effects like dangerous spikes in blood pressure or brain pressure. The study is too small to prove the drug works, but it lays the groundwork for future research.
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) given intravenously
What this could lead to
If safe and effective, this could point toward a treatment to help awaken patients with severe brain injuries.
What could go wrong
This is a very early Phase 1 safety study with only 10 participants, so it cannot prove the drug works. Risks include high blood pressure, fast heart rate, and increased brain pressure.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States