In the realm of attention disorders, where our focus is often blamed for dwindling in the face of constant notifications and screen time, Akili Interactive, a video game company, has turned the narrative on its head. The mobile game Endeavor, recognized as the sole video game approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating ADHD in children in 2020, recently received an extension to its label, now covering older kids and teens up to age 17. This means children aged 8 and older can now obtain a prescription for this groundbreaking video game. Additionally, there’s an off-label version designed for adults.
While EndeavorRX doesn’t boast official FDA clearance for adults, there’s a version of the game tailored for them. Reddit discussions among adults have emerged, with one user likening EndeavorOTC to a “boring Mario Kart” that prompts the mind to practice focusing and multitasking.
In a landscape where ADHD treatment accessibility remains a challenge, especially post-pandemic drug shortages, EndeavorRX offers an intriguing alternative. As the demand for stimulants like Adderall rises, exploring unconventional treatments or complementary activities, such as a video game, might be a viable consideration.
The mechanics of EndeavorRX involve a 25-minute mobile game to be played five times a week for four consecutive weeks. The game aims to train the brain, enhancing focus and attention through daily exercises. In the prescription version for children, players navigate characters through obstacles while collecting targets. As performance improves, the game intensifies, with parents able to track progress through the EndeavorRx Insight companion app.
Before FDA clearance, a trial survey indicated that 73% of children using EndeavorRX reported improved attention, compared to 50% in the control group. To experience a brief demo, the app is available for download on iOS or Android.
The adult version mirrors the children’s concept but adapts the interface for adults, offering a “focus score” as a measure of task completion speed and accuracy despite distractions. According to Akili, improvements in adult attention were notably more significant than those observed in children during FDA testing.
For optimal results, Akili recommends a six-week gameplay period, followed by a one-week break, and then another six-week period. To obtain a prescription, a healthcare provider issues a code through a specialized pharmacy. EndeavorRX costs $99 for a 30-day prescription, eligible for FSA or HSA use. The off-label version, EndeavorOTC, is priced at $25 per month or $130 per year without requiring a prescription.
While the game may not be suitable for individuals with conditions such as photo-sensitive epilepsy, color blindness, or specific physical limitations, the milder side effects reported by only 5% of EndeavorOTC trial participants, such as nausea or headaches, make it an intriguing alternative to traditional ADHD medications.
