Combining L-theanine and Paraxanthine for Transient Improvement of Cognitive Deficits Among Patients With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Series of Translational Pilot Neuroimaging Studies
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Summary
This pilot study will test whether combining L-theanine and paraxanthine improves sustained attention, inhibitory control, and overall cognition in adults with ADHD and ASD. Two parallel randomized, single-blinded, repeated-measures crossover trials will be conducted. Participants will complete neuropsychological testing, fMRI scanning, and self-report measures following administration of the L-theanine-paraxanthine combination compared to placebo.
Description
Improving cognitive functions, including how fast the brain processes information, staying focused, and controlling impulsive actions, has been a topic of interest for centuries. These functions are frequently impaired in developmental or neurological conditions like attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although medications like amphetamines can help manage cognitive deficits, they often carry significant side effects, risk of addiction, and high costs. Consequently, many individuals and families turn to complementary and alternative treatments. F…
Eligibility
- Age range
- Not specified
- Sex
- Male
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: Adults (18+ years) diagnosed by a physician (per self-report) with ADHD or ASD \* Participants with a dual diagnosis and ASD and ADHD will be recruited but will only be included in the ASD group - their concurrent ADHD diagnosis will be included as an additional variable in exploratory analyses Exclusion Criteria: 1. Subjects with gross visual or auditory impairments that might limit their ability to perform neuropsychological tasks 2. Inability to read and follow written instructions 3. Physical, neurological, intellectual, or psychiatric impairments (except ADHD or AS…
Interventions
- Dietary SupplementL-theanine and paraxanthine
200 mg L-theanine + 200 mg paraxanthine capsule
- Dietary SupplementPlacebo
400 mg corn starch capsule
Location
- Texas Tech UniversityLubbock, Texas