AKL-T01: A Therapeutic Video Game for ADHD
Dr. Danish and the team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry are always on the lookout for innovative treatments that can enhance the lives of their patients. One such promising development is AKL-T01, a digital therapeutic designed specifically for individuals with ADHD. Unlike traditional video games, which may capture attention but aren't tailored to address ADHD symptoms, AKL-T01 is crafted to improve attentional control through targeted cognitive exercises. This digital intervention aligns with our holistic approach, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized care to manage ADHD effectively.
AKL-T01 has shown significant promise in managing ADHD symptoms, as evidenced by recent studies. By focusing on attentional control, this digital therapeutic offers a non-pharmacological option that complements the comprehensive treatment plans we develop at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry. Our approach integrates medication management, therapy, lifestyle changes, and now, digital therapeutics, to address the multifaceted nature of ADHD.
AKL-T01 Explained
The digital therapeutic AKL-T01 is designed to enhance attentional control through a specialized video game interface, specifically targeting cognitive deficits associated with ADHD. Unlike typical video games that engage teenagers through captivating graphics and gameplay, AKL-T01 is purpose-built to address ADHD-related cognitive challenges.
Mechanism of Action
AKL-T01 employs a unique algorithm called the Selective Stimulus Management Engine (SSME) to train interference management. This involves engaging users in two simultaneous tasks: a perceptual discrimination targeting task and a sensory motor navigation task. The aim is to improve the ability to manage interference by reducing the performance gap between multitasking and single-tasking. The game dynamically adjusts difficulty levels to suit each user, ensuring optimal cognitive challenge and engagement.
Comparison with Regular Video Games
Regular video games can capture attention and offer some cognitive benefits, but they are not specifically designed to address ADHD. While they may enhance focus and multitasking skills, they lack the structured cognitive training that AKL-T01 provides. AKL-T01 is engineered to improve attentional control, a core deficit in ADHD, without the risk of negative effects like increased impulsivity or gaming addiction, which can occur with conventional video games.
Efficacy of AKL-T01
Adolescents
In adolescents aged 13-17, AKL-T01 demonstrated a significant improvement in attention. The Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) Attention Comparison Score (ACS) increased by an average of 2.64 points over 28 days, indicating a moderate effect size. Additionally, there were notable improvements in the ADHD-Rating Scale-5 (ADHD-RS-5) inattention subscale and total scores, with reductions of 2.99 and 4.59 points, respectively.
Adults
For adults aged 18 and older, the results were even more pronounced. The TOVA-ACS improved by 6.46 points over 42 days, reflecting a large effect size. Improvements were also observed in the ADHD-Rating Scale-IV (ADHD-RS-IV) inattention subscale and total scores, with reductions of 5.10 and 8.27 points, respectively. Moreover, adults experienced enhancements in quality of life, as measured by the Adult ADHD Quality of Life (AAQoL).
Responder Analysis
Adolescents
61% of participants showed a 1.4-point improvement on TOVA-ACS.
27.1% achieved a 30% improvement in ADHD RS-5 total score.
Adults
83% of participants showed a 1.4-point improvement on TOVA-ACS.
32.7% achieved a 30% improvement in ADHD RS-IV total score.
32.7% showed an 8-point improvement in AAQoL.
Safety
Adolescents
Only 2.5% of participants experienced treatment-emergent adverse device effects (TE-ADEs), such as decreased frustration tolerance and headache. Importantly, no serious adverse effects were reported.
Adults
In adults, 5% experienced TE-ADEs, primarily nausea and headache. Three participants discontinued due to unexpected TE-ADEs, but all symptoms resolved after stopping the treatment.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and his Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care, considering all aspects of our patients' well-being. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient. If you or a loved one are seeking support for ADHD or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For more on this topic and related subjects, check out these blogs by Dr. Danish:
This is a great set of blogs that discusses various treatments for ADHD.
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