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

NCT06759298 — Early Phase 1, Not yet recruiting, 60 participants, Tanta University

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RegistryNCT06759298
StatusNot yet recruiting
PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional; randomized, parallel, masking: none, health services research
Enrollment60 (Estimated)
SponsorTanta University (Other)
ConditionsBorderline Personality Disorder
Interventionsmethylphenidate, matched placebo tablet (Drug)
Datesstart 2025-01-15 (estimated), primary completion 2025-03-25 (estimated), completion 2025-03-25 (estimated), first posted 2025-01-06, last updated 2025-01-06

Related Papers Related Patents Related Grants Related Experts
All trials for Borderline Personality Disorder All trials of methylphenidate All trials of matched placebo tablet

-Summary

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.

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+Detailed 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).

+Arms and interventions

ArmTypeInterventionsDescription
Concerta GroupActive comparatorDrug: methylphenidateParticipants 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
Placebo GroupPlacebo comparatorDrug: matched placebo tabletParticipants in the placebo group will receive a matched placebo tablet
  • methylphenidate (Drug), also known as Concerta: patient group will recieve methylphenidate
  • matched placebo tablet (Drug): placebo gtoup will recieve matched placebo tablet

+Outcome measures

Primary outcomes

  • Reduction in impulsivity and mood instability as measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (Revised) [3 months]: Reduction in impulsivity and mood instability in borderline as measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (Revised)
  • reduction of depression symptoms in borderline personality as meassured by as measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (Revised) [3 months]: reduction of depression symptoms in borderline personality as meassured by as measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (Revised)
  • Reduction in Perceived Stress in borderline as meassured by Perceived Stress Scale AScale [3 months]: Reduction in Perceived Stress in borderline as meassured by Perceived Stress Scale

+Eligibility

Sex: All, ages: 18 Years to 50 Years, 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.

+Publications

  • Lieb K, Zanarini MC, Schmahl C, Linehan MM, Bohus M. Borderline personality disorder. Lancet. 2004 Jul 31-Aug 6;364(9432):453-61. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(04)16770-6. PMID 15288745