Efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation for children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often show cognitive deficits. Given that some evidence has suggested transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a potential alternative or adjunct to psychostimulants, we sought to perform a meta-analysis and systematic review to evaluate the effects of tDCS on clinical symptoms and cognitive function among children and adolescents with ADHD, as well as to summarize associated adverse effects.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library up to May 7, 2025 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving children and adolescents with ADHD who underwent tDCs therapy. The outcome included specific cognitive function assessments and clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

We included 18 RCTs that involved 496 children and adolescents with ADHD, of which 14 trials ( = 388) were included in the meta-analysis. The results indicated that there was no significant improvement in clinical symptoms (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.012, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.235 to 0.259) and processing speed (SMD 0.063, 95% CI -0.145 to 0.27) compared with controls. For cognitive function, those who underwent tDCS showed significant improvement effects in attention (SMD 0.207, 95% CI 0.011 to 0.403) and inhibitory control (SMD 0.222, 95% CI 0.045 to 0.399). Subgroup analyses revealed that stimulation at the F3 site was more effective in improving attention, inhibitory control, and processing speed. A current intensity of 1 mA outperformed currents of 1.5 mA and 2 mA in enhancing inhibitory control, and the cathode was more effective than the anode. A single stimulation session appeared effective in improving attention and inhibitory control, although further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

LIMITATIONS

Some subgroup analyses included few studies, lacked ADHD subtype delineation, and involved only single-dimensional analysis, which limited comprehensive conclusions.

CONCLUSION

Overall, tDCS may improve the attention and inhibitory abilities of children and adolescents with ADHD, particularly with optimal stimulation parameters (F3 site, a current intensity of 1 mA, cathodal stimulation, and single-session stimulation). These findings suggest therapeutic potential but require larger clinical validation.