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Non-randomised trial, 2022

Can a simple taste test identify women with ADHD and severe PMS?

A simple taste test showed women with both ADHD and severe PMS (PMDD) did not respond to lidocaine as expected. This might point to a physical difference in how their nerve cells work.

Early or limited evidence 53 people total (women with ADHD and/or PMS, plus controls); 12 initially used to validate the test

What they did

Developed a taste test for lidocaine response. First validated it in 12 people by comparing it to injected lidocaine. Then tested it in 53 people total including those with ADHD and PMS and controls.

What they found

Women with ADHD and PMS together showed a strong association with not responding to lidocaine as expected, suggesting a biological cause related to how nerve cells work.

What it means for you

There may be a simple test to help identify women with ADHD and PMDD. This study was very small and early-stage, so it needs much more testing before it could be used in clinics.

53

Total participants (cases and controls)

12

Used to validate the test initially

About the study

Original title
Lidocaine Ineffectiveness Suggests New Psychopharmacology Drug Target
Authors
Mintz M, Badner V, Feldman LK et al.
Journal
Psychopharmacology bulletin
Year
2022
Study design
Non-randomised trial
Participants
53
What was tested
Lidocaine taste test
Open access
Yes

Topics