Stimulant Medication for ADHD and Tics - Understanding Response versus Non-stimulants (SATURN): a randomised trial of the clinical and cost-effectiveness of methylphenidate versus guanfacine for ADHD in children and young people with a co-existing tic disorder

Why is this study important?

Young people who experience ADHD may find that they have difficulties paying attention, feel restless or do things without thinking. Some young people with ADHD also experience tics. Sometimes these emotional difficulties can be very upsetting and have an impact on day-to-day life, school, friendships, and other relationships.

Medicines prescribed by a doctor to help with ADHD work very well. Medication A (modified-release methylphenidate) is given to many children and young people with ADHD and works by helping different parts of their brain talk to each other, allowing them to focus on an activity like drawing or doing homework for longer.

However, some doctors are worried that this type of medicine could make tics worse. This means doctors often prefer to give another type of medication, Medication B (guanfacine extended-release) to people that have both ADHD and tics.

The SATURN trial will compare modified-release methylphenidate (usually prescribed for ADHD) with guanfacine extended-release (usually prescribed for tics) to identify the best treatment for children and young people with both ADHD and tics.

Could your child or young person take part in the SATURN study? 

The SATURN research team is conducting a study to identify the best medication for children and young people aged 6-16yr who have both ADHD and tics. Research shows 20% of children and young people who have ADHD also experience tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that people do without being able to control them, such as blinking, throat clearing, or head jerking. 

Children and young people with ADHD are often prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. We are studying two medications that are already widely used to treat ADHD: 

• Modified-release methylphenidate (a stimulant).
• Guanfacine extended-release (a non-stimulant). 

The aim of this study is to find out which of the two medications is the most effective treatment for children and young people who have both ADHD and tics.

What does joining the study mean?

• A specialist doctor will assess whether your child or young person has tics and if required ADHD. They will also check that your child or young person is eligible for the study. 
• If you are on an ADHD waitlist for a diagnosis you may be able to have your diagnosis completed by the research team
• If your child or young person is eligible, they will be assigned to receive one of the two medicines. 
• You and your child will have weekly check-ins with the doctor for the first 12 weeks to help find the right dose 
• The study lasts for one year

What are the benefits of joining the study?

• If your child or young person takes part, you will have regular contact with a doctor for 12 weeks as they manage the medication. 
• You will be helping improve the care for other children and young people with ADHD and tics. 
• Your child or young person may receive their ADHD diagnosis and access to treatment earlier.

Are the medicines new? 

No. 

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