NYU Langone’s Department of Psychiatry collaborates with other prestigious institutions to conduct research on adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Researchers recognize that adults with ADHD have many strengths. Patients are often creative, highly energetic, and view the world in unique ways. However, ADHD can be detrimental to personal relationships and can diminish performance at work or in school. Lenard A. Adler, MD, and his colleagues conduct clinical studies to help patients better manage or resolve these challenges.

As part of the World Health Organization (WHO) Workgroup on Adult ADHD, Dr. Adler helped create the evidence-based 18-question Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale-Version1.1 Symptom Checklist, and the weighted 6-question Adult ADHD Self Report Screener. Both tools are validated for the DSM-4 and have been a valuable part of his research and in the clinical Adult ADHD Program at NYU Langone Psychiatry Associates. In addition, Dr. Adler developed the WHO Adult ADHD Self-Report Screening Scale for the DSM-5, published in JAMA Psychiatry. The new screener is available for clinicians after completion of an educational program at ADHDinadults.com.

As part of his work with the American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorders, he is leading the Adult ADHD Quality Measures Initiative, with the goal of improving the care of adult patients with the condition.

Clinical Trials

Dr. Adler is conducting several clinical trials on treatment for adult ADHD.

Study of the Duration and Efficacy of Mydayis on Adult ADHD Symptoms and Executive Function Throughout the Day into the Early Evening

This study is examining the efficacy of Mydayis^®, a long-acting amphetamine approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration, on ADHD symptoms and executive function throughout the day into the early evening at 14 to 15 hours after the first morning dose. Assessment tools include a clinical ADHD symptom measure validated for adult ADHD as well as neuropsychological measures of executive function and specific clinical scales of function. The study is enrolling up to 40 adults taking a total daily Mydayis^® dose of 12.5 to 37.5 mg. View full clinical trial information.

A Trial Evaluating the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Centanafadine Sustained-Release Tablets in Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This multisite study, trial number 405-201-00013, is confirming the efficacy of centanafadine sustained-release tablets at a total daily dose of 200 or 400 mg for up to 28 days versus placebo. About 20 adults with ADHD are being enrolled at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. This randomized, double-blind study also aims to confirm drug safety and tolerability. View full clinical trial information.

A Trial Evaluating the Long-Term Safety and Tolerability of Centanafadine Sustained-Release Tablets in Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This open-label multisite study, trial number 405-201-00015, is evaluating the safety and tolerability of centanafadine sustained-release tablets for a total daily dose of 400 mg in ADHD patients for about 52 weeks. At NYU Grossman School of Medicine, about 20 people are being enrolled. The population includes rollover subjects from the 405-201-00013 trial. Rollover subjects are those people who, during the double-blind trial, demonstrated adequate compliance with medication and protocol requirements. View full clinical trial information.

Current Grants

The following pharmaceutical companies currently fund these trials.

Takeda–Shire

Study of the Duration and Efficacy of Mydayis on Adult ADHD Symptoms and Executive Function Throughout the Day into the Early Evening

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc.

A Trial Evaluating the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Centanafadine Sustained-Release Tablets in Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; 405-201-00013

A Trial Evaluating the Long-Term Safety and Tolerability of Centanafadine Sustained-Release Tablets in Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; 405-201-00015

Research Training

Dr. Adler offers research training in the diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD to medical students, residents, and fellows.

Contact Us

For more information about adult ADHD research in the Department of Psychiatry, please contact Terry Leon, senior clinical research coordinator, at terry.leon@nyulangone.org or 646-754-4841.

Recent Publications

Dr. Adler frequently publishes on adult ADHD in peer-reviewed journals. Here is a selection of his recent publications.