Project aims:  The ATTENS (ADHD Trial of External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation, eTNS) project is investigating a novel non-medical treatment for ADHD in children aged 8 to 18 years old. 

What is the treatment? The treatment consists of a device that stimulates the trigeminal nerve with a small electrical current through a battery charged patch that is put on the child’s forehead when they sleep. 

How does it work? The activation of the trigeminal nerve on the forehead leads to the activation of the brain stem and frontal brain regions that are important for arousal and attention. 

Is it licenced for ADHD? The Monarch eTNS (external trigeminal nerve stimulation) device is approved by the USA Food and Drug administration (FDA) in the U.S.A as the first non-pharmacological treatment for ADHD. 

Study details: The study will test in a large multicentre trial across London and Southampton whether using this device for 4 weeks will improve ADHD behaviours, cognitive skills like attention and self-control and the function of the brain using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The study will randomise participants to either the real or the sham device which is like a placebo. All participants will be assessed before and after the treatment as well as 6 months later in a series of clinical and cognitive measures, safety measures, measures of motion in a wrist-hand device and will also do fMRI if they want but this is optional.