Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome in Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial on the Effects of Chronotherapy on Sleep

Melatonin with or without bright light therapy did not advance sleep times in adults with ADHD and delayed sleep phase syndrome.

• Delayed sleep phase syndrome is the most common sleep disturbance in adults with ADHD.
• Chronotherapy with melatonin advanced the dim-light melatonin onset by 2 hours but did not improve sleep timing or quality.
• ADHD symptoms were reduced by 14% with melatonin alone, but this was not observed with the combination of melatonin and bright light therapy.
• Sleep characteristics were assessed using objective measures and self-reported questionnaires in a clinical trial with 49 participants.
• The findings suggest that additional behavioral coaching may be necessary to effectively advance sleep times and alleviate ADHD symptoms.

AI simplified