The United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a video game for use in the treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children 8-12 years old. The game, EndeavorRX, is only available via a doctor’s prescription and is a downloadable app. The FDA’s approval marks the first time that the organization has approved a non-prescription treatment for the disorder and it came after five clinical studies of over 600 children.
“The EndeavorRx device offers a non-drug option for improving symptoms associated with ADHD in children and is an important example of the growing field of digital therapy and digital therapeutics,” wrote Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, the director of the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health.
Developed by Akili, the game is an action-based title where users are faced with a number of themed worlds. Pulling out an arcade-like experience mixed with a loot-based RPG experience, players will have to avoid obstacles along the way and will be able to collect loot along the way. There are cosmetic skins to be collected as well.
Akili’s CEO Eddie Martucci said, “We’re using technology to help treat a condition in an entirely new way as we directly target neurological function through medicine that feels like entertainment. We’re excited to offer families a first-of-its-kind non-drug treatment option.”
Check out the full press announcement about EndeavorRx by visiting the FDA site.