St. John's wort may improve some symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

There is evidence for the efficacy of noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake inhibitors treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this open trial, we checked St. John's wort, a serotonin and noradrealine reuptake inhibitor, and actually used as an antidepressant, for this indication. Three 14–16-year-old male psychiatric outpatients, diagnosed with ADHD have been rated at baseline and while taking St. John's wort or a placebo, respectively, by the Conner Scale and by the Continuous Performance Test, to determine its efficacy as a treatment option for ADHD. Patients’ mean scores improved for Conners’ hyperactivity, inattention and immaturity factors. Although the sample size is very small and therefore generalisation is very difficult, this observation indicates that St. John's wort might be a slightly effective treatment for ADHD also.

Keywords:

• attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
• St. John's wort