The Effects of Different Treatment Modes with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A MetaAnalysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Background: ADHD is associated with high rates of many adverse functional outcomes, including comorbid psychiatric disorders, academic impairments, accidents and injuries, driving accidents, and so on. It can be employed to alleviate symptoms and functions of ADHD with drug and non-drug treatment methods. Methods: A systematic review of studies published in PUBMED, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases from Jan 01, 2010 until Jan 2021. Results: A total of 12 studies were included in the analysis of ADHD. The combined effect of drug treatment and placebo comparison was SMD= -6.84,95% CI (-10.48,-3.21).According to subgroup analyses of methylphenidate and methylphenidate combined with other therapies in ADHD treatment, it is found that in hyperactivity/impulsivity subtype methylphenidate combined with other therapies in ADHD treatment is superior to drugs alone (SMD = -2.02, 95% CI, -3.61 to 0.43; I2 = 37%).It reveals no significant difference between drug therapy and physical therapy groups ((SMD =-7.41, 95% CI, -16.31 to 1.48; I2 = 95%). Discussion: Children with ADHD require a multi-mode treatment mode, simultaneously with drug treatment, mental health education should be provided, and other non-drug interventions should be combined according to specific functional and behavioral goals to facilitate the comprehensive recovery of children's social function.