Study of the Monarch External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation Device Compared to Sham for Treating ADHD in Children and Teens Aged 7 to 17 Years
Led by Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Denmark · Updated on 2026-03-09
60
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
12 weeks
Total Duration
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating the Monarch external trigeminal nerve stimulation eTNS device as a non-drug treatment for children and adolescents aged 7 to 17 years diagnosed with attention-deficithyperactivity disorder ADHD. The study aims to assess the feasibility of using this device compared to a sham device and to pilot a larger clinical trial. The Monarch eTNS device offers a home-based, non-invasive option that requires family cooperation and compliance.
Participants will be randomly assigned to use either the active Monarch eTNS device or a sham device for four weeks during nighttime. The active eTNS delivers short electrical pulses to stimulate the trigeminal nerve, with current levels adjusted for comfort. The sham device looks identical but provides minimal stimulation that mimics the sensation without therapeutic effect. During the trial, families will keep a logbook and complete questionnaires to track symptoms and device experience.
Throughout the study, participants will be monitored for treatment compliance, safety, and adverse events. Researchers will assess core ADHD symptoms and autonomic functions using heart rate variability measurements. At the end of the trial, families will provide feedback on the devices acceptability and feasibility, informing whether a larger clinical trial is appropriate. The total participation lasts for four weeks with follow-up assessments during this period.
Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand, Denmark
Lead Sponsor
Who Can Participate
Age: 7Years - 17Years
All Genders
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
Age between 7 and 17 years at the time of enrollment
Clinical diagnosis of ADHD according to ICD-10 criteria verified by DSM-5 using K-SADS
ADHD rating scale score above 24 at baseline
Signed informed consent from parents or legal guardians and from patients aged 15 or older
Includes patients who are treatment-na�efve, previously treated with stimulants, or on stable stimulant medication during the trial
You will not qualify if you...
Current treatment with atomoxetine or guanfacine
Diagnosis of epilepsy
Presence of electronic or metallic implants
Serious mental or somatic diseases other than ADHD, including pervasive developmental disorders (excluding Asperger's syndrome), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive psychotic disorders, substance dependence syndrome, cardiovascular disorders, or cancer
Intelligence quotient below 70
Significant restless sleep as reported by caregivers and evaluated by a physician
Other disabilities that would interfere with using the Monarch device
Your Study Journey
Screening
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Treatment
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants use the Monarch eTNS device or a sham device at home for 4 weeks. The device delivers electrical stimulation to the trigeminal nerve to assess feasibility and treatment effects for ADHD.
Weekly visits for up to 4 weeks
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
Similar Trials
Study of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Treating ADHD in Children Ages 6 to 12
Study of ADRIS 2.1 Driving Simulator in Adolescents Aged 13 to 18 With and Without ADHD
Evaluating Attention, Behavior, and Driving Performance Using Simulator Training
Understanding Sleep Patterns and Circadian Delay in Children Ages 6 to 9 with ADHD and Their Impact on Behavior and Thinking
Study of Transcranial Photobiomodulation Treatment for Children and Adolescents With ADHD
Comparing Organizational Skills Training and Mindfulness-Based Intervention
for Adolescents Aged 13 to 17 with ADHD
at the Duke ADHD Program
Comparing Organizational Skills Training and Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Teens with ADHD in a Randomized Study
Study Evaluating ADHD Medication Effects on Eye Movements and Nervous System Activity in Children and Adolescents Aged 6 to 17
Studying Driving Simulation Performance During Medication Breaks in Adults with ADHD Taking Stimulant Treatment
Study of the Monarch External Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation Device Compared to Sham for Treating ADHD in Children and Teens Aged 7 to 17 Years
Observational Study of Magnetoencephalography Use in Children Aged 1 Month to 18 Years With Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Have more questions? Get in touch with our team for quick support
Published Research Related To This Trial
External trigeminal nerve stimulation versus sham stimulation for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents aged 7-17 years: study protocol for a pilot and feasibility randomized clinical trial.