The Effects of Methylphenidate on Symptomatology in Individuals With Borderline Personality Disorder

Tanta University

Status and phase: Not yet enrolling; Early Phase 1

Conditions: Borderline Personality Disorder

Treatments: Drug: methylphenidate; Drug: matched placebo tablet

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06759298

methylphenidate in borderline

Details and patient eligibility

About

This study aims to investigate the effects of methylphenidate on symptomatology in individuals with borderline personality disorder. Specifically, it will evaluate whether Concerta is effective in reducing impulsivity, mood instability, and inattention among patients with BPD. Additionally, the study will assess Concerta's safety profile in this population to determine its potential as a supportive pharmacological option in BPD management.

Full description

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by pervasive instability in mood, self-image, interpersonal relationships, and behavior.

Individuals with BPD often experience intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety, which can lead to impulsive behaviors, self-harm, and strained social relationships. These symptoms significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life(American Psychiatric Association, 2013). creating a substantial burden on individuals and healthcare systems(Lieb et al., 2004).

. While psychotherapy remains the primary treatment for BPD, pharmacological interventions are often utilized to address specific symptoms, such as mood instability, impulsivity, and inattention.

Traditional medications like antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers have shown varying levels of efficacy in treating BPD, but no medication is currently approved specifically for BPD treatment(Chapman, 2019).. As a result, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative pharmacological options that may alleviate specific symptom clusters within BPD (Fleischhaker et al., 2011).

methylphenidate, a long-acting formulation of methylphenidate commonly prescribed for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), has shown promising effects on attention, impulsivity, and mood regulation(Hirsch & Hauschild, 2019).

These effects suggest it may be beneficial in managing certain BPD symptoms, particularly impulsivity and mood dysregulation. Preliminary studies have indicated that stimulant medications like methylphenidate may help some individuals with BPD improve focus and control impulsive behaviors, but comprehensive research on methylphenidate's efficacy and safety in this population remains limited(Wilens, Morrison, & Prince, 2011).

Enrollment: 60 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18 to 50 years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• • Individuals aged 18-50 years.

  • Diagnosed with borderline personality disorder as confirmed by a structured clinical interview.
  • Experiencing at least moderate levels of impulsivity and mood instability.
  • Not currently receiving stimulant medication or any pharmacotherapy specifically contraindicated with methylphenidate.
  • Capable of providing informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• • Diagnosed with ADHD or other neurodevelopmental disorders where Concerta is typically prescribed.

  • Severe co-morbid psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) or substance use disorder.
  • Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other stimulant medications.
  • Pregnant or lactating women.
  • Individuals currently undergoing intensive psychotherapy or those unwilling to discontinue existing psychotropic medications that may interact with Concerta.

Trial design

Primary purpose: Health Services Research

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: None (Open label)

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60 participants in 2 patient groups, including a placebo group

Concerta Group

Active Comparator group

Description:

Participants will receive a starting dose of Concerta (18 mg/day), which may be titrated based on clinical response and tolerance, up to a maximum of 54 mg/day. tablet form once daily for 3 months

Treatment:

Drug: methylphenidate

Placebo Group

Placebo Comparator group

Description:

Participants in the placebo group will receive a matched placebo tablet

Treatment:

Drug: matched placebo tablet