Efficacy of Methylphenidate for Internet Gaming Disorder and Internet Addiction in Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Background Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and Internet Addiction (IA) are related clinical conditions often comorbid with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).Objective We evaluated the efficacy of MPH for IGD/IA symptoms in ADHD patients.Methods We enrolled 38 drug-naive patients diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and IGD/IA. At baseline, all patients underwent a clinical assessment for IGD/IA symptoms and then received the most appropriate therapy according to their clinical profile. Twenty-one patients received MPH (methylphenidate) treatment, and 17 patients did not. Patients were re-evaluated after three months of treatment.Results Findings revealed significant reductions in IGD/IA symptoms over time, while no significant effect of MPH on symptom reduction was found. Clinical predictors of symptom reduction were identified, including IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and comorbid anxiety.Conclusion This longitudinal prospective study contributes to the understanding of IGD/IA treatment in ADHD patients and highlights the importance of considering individual clinical characteristics when predicting treatment response. However, MPH may not directly impact IGD/IA symptom reduction.