To discover and test new, safe methods of treatment and therapies for illnesses and disorders, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) sponsors clinical trials. These closely monitored trials are conducted under the auspices and supervision of experienced and skilled healthcare professionals and clinicians in healthcare facilities or in environments such as hospitals and research labs.

Equally important to a clinical trial and its subsequent findings is the participant. Whether or not participants in clinical trials have the very illness or are taking medication for which the trial is being conducted, their inclusion and efforts in the trial is critical to ensure accurate and beneficial outcomes.

Clinical trials cover a wide range of disorders, therapies, and medication—including those related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As a health care professional, you may be approached by a patient with ADHD, or by a parent of a child with ADHD who expresses interest in participating in clinical trials for him- or herself or his or her child. Or you may determine that a patient of yours may benefit from or contribute to such a trial.

This section is designed to help you communicate to your patient/parent information about ADHD-related clinical trials. It also outlines the basics of clinical trials, and offers information on how those interested may participate. In addition, information is presented about current, ongoing trials.