Phosphatidylserine for ADHD: Does It Help Kids Focus?

meta-analysis PMID: 38547138

Quick Summary: A new study looked at different antioxidants for kids with ADHD. It found that phosphatidylserine (PS) might help improve attention and reduce ADHD symptoms, especially when parents report on their child's behavior.

What The Research Found

Researchers looked at many studies on antioxidants for ADHD in children and teens. They found that phosphatidylserine (PS) showed promise, particularly in improving attention and overall ADHD symptoms as reported by parents. When combined with omega-3, PS also showed benefits in improving attention as reported by teachers. However, the study also noted that more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Study Details

Who was studied: Children and teenagers diagnosed with ADHD.

How long: The study looked at data from many different studies, so the length of time varied.

What they took: The study looked at different antioxidants, including phosphatidylserine. The exact dosage of PS wasn't specified in the summary.

What This Means For You

If your child has ADHD, this research suggests that phosphatidylserine might be worth discussing with your doctor. It could potentially help improve their focus and reduce ADHD symptoms, especially based on your observations. However, it's important to remember that this is just one study, and more research is needed. Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.

Study Limitations

The study looked at many different studies, and some of them weren't as well-designed as they could be.

The study didn't provide specific details about how much PS was used or for how long.

The researchers emphasized that more high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Key Findings

This network meta-analysis evaluated 12 antioxidants for ADHD treatment in children and adolescents. Phosphatidylserine (PS) ranked highest for improving parent-reported attention (SUCRA 0.39) and total ADHD Rating Scale-Parent scores (SUCRA 0.34). When combined with omega-3, PS+omega-3 ranked second for teacher-reported attention (SUCRA 0.26). However, the study noted low methodological quality across included trials, urging caution in interpreting results. Safety rankings favored omega-6, vitamin D, and quercetin over PS.

Study Design

The study analyzed 48 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective studies involving 3,650 participants (children/adolescents with ADHD). Data were sourced from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to November 12, 2022. Network meta-analysis was conducted using R Studio 4.2.1, with efficacy and safety ranked via SUCRA (Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking Curve) scores.

Dosage & Administration

The study summary did not specify exact dosages or administration protocols for phosphatidylserine or other antioxidants. Methodological details (e.g., duration, formulation) were aggregated across trials, limiting actionable guidance for clinical use.

Results & Efficacy

Parent-rated ADHD symptoms: PS alone showed the highest efficacy for attention (SUCRA 0.39) and total scores (SUCRA 0.34).
Teacher-rated ADHD symptoms: PS+omega-3 ranked second for attention (SUCRA 0.26).
Comparative efficacy: PS outperformed most antioxidants (e.g., zinc, ginkgo biloba) but trailed omega-3 and pycnogenol in some metrics.
Safety: PS was not among the top three safest agents (omega-6, vitamin D, quercetin ranked higher).
Response rates: Omega-3+6 combination therapy had the highest clinical global impression (CGI) response (SUCRA 0.95).

No p-values, confidence intervals, or direct effect sizes for PS were reported in the summary.

Limitations

Low methodological quality: The authors noted significant variability in study designs, potentially biasing results.
Heterogeneity: Diverse populations, dosages, and outcome measures across trials limit generalizability.
Lack of detailed data: Specific PS dosages, formulations, and trial durations were not disclosed in the summary.
Publication bias: Only published studies were included, risking overestimation of effects.
Need for validation: The authors emphasized that findings require confirmation via high-quality RCTs.

Clinical Relevance

This analysis suggests phosphatidylserine may improve parent-reported attention and overall ADHD symptoms in youth, particularly when used alone. However, the absence of robust statistical evidence (e.g., p-values) and safety rankings lower than omega-3 or vitamin D indicate insufficient support for definitive clinical recommendations. Practitioners should prioritize well-established therapies (e.g., omega-3) while acknowledging PS as a potential adjunct. Future research must address methodological gaps to validate these findings.

Source: PubMed (2024)