## A Wearable Headband Offers New Hope for ADHD Treatment
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects millions of adults worldwide. According to a recent study, over 366 million adults globally have been diagnosed with ADHD (source). While stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin are commonly prescribed, they may not be suitable for everyone due to side effects and other concerns. As a result, individuals with ADHD often struggle to find effective alternatives for managing their symptoms. However, a Sydney-based company called Neurode has developed a groundbreaking solution that offers hope for those with ADHD: a wearable headband that can track and treat ADHD symptoms. The best part? Users only need to wear it for 20 minutes a day.
### How Does the Neurode Headband Work?
The Neurode headband utilizes light electrical stimulation in the prefrontal cortex to balance brain activity and treat ADHD symptoms such as lack of focus. While some users may feel a tingling sensation during the stimulation, others may not feel anything at all. The device also uses light to monitor and record changes in brain activity, providing valuable insights into the user’s condition.
Neurode’s co-founder, Nathalie Gouailhardou, is a neuroscientist who was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. She personally experienced the limitations of traditional stimulant treatments and wanted to find a better solution. Inspired by her work with non-invasive brain imaging machines, she teamed up with co-founder Damian Sofrevski to develop a wearable device that could bring this technology out of the lab and into the hands of individuals with ADHD.
### The Journey of Neurode: From Lab to Real-World Application
Neurode was founded in 2021 and quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to ADHD treatment. The company filed patents for its device and raised a $3.5 million pre-seed funding round led by Khosla Ventures, with participation from PsyMed Ventures. These funds were used to conduct clinical trials and further develop the technology.
While the device is currently available through a private beta program, Neurode has its sights set on gaining FDA approval as a medical device. This would allow the headband to be accessible to a wider audience and provide a regulated treatment option for individuals with ADHD. Although a timeline for the FDA application process has not been announced, Neurode’s progress and dedication to innovation have caught the attention of investors and industry experts.
### Why Is Neurode’s Approach Unique?
What sets Neurode apart from other ADHD treatment startups is its medical device approach. By taking existing technologies and making them smaller and more user-friendly, Neurode aims to bring the benefits of these innovations directly into people’s homes. Alex Morgan, a partner at Khosla Ventures, emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating that “a lot of products and technology aren’t great if people can’t get access to them and use them.” Neurode’s wearable headband addresses this issue by providing a convenient and practical solution for individuals with ADHD.
### The Future of Neurode and Beyond ADHD Treatment
While Neurode’s primary focus is currently on ADHD treatment, the potential of their wearable headband extends beyond this condition. Gouailhardou believes that the device could also be used to track and manage other conditions such as age-related cognitive decline and depression. This opens up exciting possibilities for future development and expansion of Neurode’s technology.
Gouailhardou expressed her gratitude for being able to build a solution that not only benefits her personally but also helps others. She finds it rewarding to be empowered to solve her own problem and witness the positive impact it has on individuals with ADHD. Neurode’s dedication to improving the lives of those with ADHD and their commitment to innovation make them a promising player in the field of neurotechnology.
In conclusion, Neurode’s wearable headband represents a significant breakthrough in ADHD treatment. By offering a non-invasive, convenient, and effective solution, Neurode aims to provide relief to individuals with ADHD who may have struggled to find suitable alternatives. With ongoing advancements and the potential to expand into other conditions, Neurode is poised to make a lasting impact in the field of neurotechnology and improve the lives of millions worldwide.