Could ritalin help kids with sickle cell disease? new pilot trial launches
NCT ID NCT07226219
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This pilot study at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is testing whether a daily dose of extended-release methylphenidate (Ritalin) can safely improve attention, thinking, and school performance in children aged 8 to 17 with sickle cell disease. The trial will enroll 72 participants and focus on whether families can stick with the treatment for 4 weeks, while also tracking any side effects and changes in behavior. It is an early-stage study, so the main goal is to see if this approach is feasible and acceptable, not yet to prove it works.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Methylphenidate (extended-release Ritalin)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a safe way to help children with sickle cell disease focus better at school and home.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small pilot study focused on feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. Side effects of stimulants like methylphenidate may include appetite loss, sleep problems, or mood changes.
Disclaimer
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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.
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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
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
RECRUITINGMemphis, Tennessee, 38105, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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