First prescription video game for children with ADHD

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first video game-based treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The video game, EndeavorRx will be prescription only and aimed at children between the ages of eight and 12 with certain types of ADHD, according to CNN.

It will be used alongside other treatments, such as clinician-directed therapy, medication, and educational programs.

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that is usually first diagnosed in children and can last into adulthood.

Approximately 4 million children aged six to 11 are affected by ADHD, whose symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention and controlling behavior.

The agency said this is the first game-based therapy to be granted marketing authorization by the FDA for any condition.

The game, which can be downloaded as an app onto a mobile device, was authorized for marketing after the FDA reviewed five clinical studies that included more than 600 children.

The agency noted some adverse effects were reported, such as frustration, headache, dizziness, emotional reaction, and aggression, but said no “serious” adverse effects were reported.

Akili, the company that created EndeavorRx, has said that children should interact with the game 30 minutes per day, five days a week, throughout a one-month treatment cycle.