Panax ginseng may improve some symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

OBJECTIVE

In this open trial, Panax ginseng, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, actually used as an antidepressant, has been investigated for its efficacy in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients.

METHODS

Three 14-17-year-old male psychiatric outpatients, diagnosed with ADHD disattention type have been rated at baseline and while taking Panax ginseng to determine its efficacy as a treatment for ADHD. Improvement was determined using comparisons of Conners' parent ratings.

RESULTS

Patients' mean scores improved for Conners' hyperactivity, inattention, and immaturity factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the sample size is very small and generalization is very difficult, this observation indicates that Panax ginseng may be a slightly effective treatment for ADHD.