New ADHD Drug Shows 19-Point Improvement in Early Trial

People with ADHD might soon have a powerful new treatment option, thanks to promising results from a drug originally designed to treat sleep disorders.

Alkermes announced Monday that their experimental drug ALKS 7290 helped adults with moderate to severe ADHD symptoms improve dramatically in just two weeks. The medication belongs to a new class of therapies called orexin agonists, which work differently than current ADHD treatments.

In the Phase 1 trial, participants started with an average score of 39 on a standard ADHD symptom scale, indicating moderate to severe symptoms that interfere with daily life. After taking a 50-milligram dose of ALKS 7290 for two weeks, their scores dropped by 19 points, bringing them into the mild symptom range.

This marks the first time researchers have shown that orexin agonists, already celebrated for treating rare sleep disorders, might help the estimated 10 million American adults living with ADHD. The drug was well tolerated by participants, an encouraging sign for future development.

The findings represent years of research into how brain chemicals affect both sleep and attention. Orexin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate wakefulness and alertness, making it a logical target for ADHD treatment.

The Ripple Effect

For people who struggle with current ADHD medications due to side effects or limited effectiveness, this new approach could be life changing. Traditional stimulant medications don't work for everyone, and some people experience anxiety, sleep problems, or appetite loss.

A new class of ADHD drugs would give doctors more tools to personalize treatment for their patients. Researchers could also explore whether orexin agonists help with the sleep problems that often accompany ADHD, addressing two challenges with one medication.

The pharmaceutical company will need to conduct larger, longer trials before seeking FDA approval, but this early success provides a strong foundation. If future studies confirm these results, ALKS 7290 could reach patients within a few years.

This breakthrough shows how research into rare conditions can unlock unexpected solutions for common health challenges affecting millions.