Curcumin for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: a Behavioral Preliminary Investigation
Abstract Background: Curcumin has protective actions in neuropsychiatric disorders. Its mechanism of action is associated with the restoration of catecholaminergic balance, reduction of oxidative/nitrosative stress, protection against inflammation, and neuroprotection. Objective: In a first approach, the study presents an empty review of the potential effect of curcumin on cognitive performance in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).Methods: On a second moment, seeing the scarcity of studies and knowing that ADHD is related to hyperactive and anxious behavior, 20 spontaneously hypertensive Wistar rats (SHR) were divided into groups that received water (1 mg/kg/day), curcumin (50 mg/kg/day), or methylphenidate (1 mg/kg/day) for 42 days. Behavioral tests to assess activity (Open Field test), anxiety and impulsivity (Elevated Plus Maze, and Social Interaction), and memory (Y Maze and Object Recognition Test) were performed. Results: Animals treated with curcumin showed less anxious and hyperactive behavior. Related to the memory, the results can be related to hyperactivity. Conclusion: Thus, the data suggest that the treatments used here can beneficially modulate the anxious and hyperactive behavior of SHR.
