Placebos have always been standard in group trials of the efficacy of stimulants in ADD. Now they are becoming more common in evaluating Ritalin in the individual child.

Researchers in Halifax, Nova Scotia designed this study to determine the value of a 3-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Ritalin therapy in children with attention deficit disorder (ADD).

Families, teachers and physicians were blinded as to the order of medication (placebo vs Ritalin first). Connors questionnaires were completed and written comments obtained at baseline and at the end of each week, after which families decided whether or not to continue Ritalin and at what dose. Of 50 eligible children, 43 families were contacted. None found the trial difficult, though six trials were incomplete. Five perceived side effects. Overall, 72% had a good response to Ritalin. Forty-seven percent continued Ritalin for > 12 months. Of nine families that chose not to use long-term Ritalin, all indicated that the trial helped their decision-making.

(Reported by Sidney Gellis in Pediatric Notes, July 2, 1998, p. 2)