Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects over 366 million adults worldwide, according to a 2020 study. While stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin are common treatments, there are limited alternatives for those who struggle with the disorder. Therapy, education, and lifestyle changes are often recommended but can be challenging to maintain.
A New Approach to ADHD Relief
Sydney-based startup Neurode offers a novel solution: a wearable headband designed to track and treat ADHD symptoms. Users only need to wear it for 20 minutes a day. The device uses light electrical stimulation on the prefrontal cortex, which helps balance brain activity. Some people feel a tingling sensation, while others feel nothing. Over time, this stimulation improves focus and treats other ADHD symptoms.
The headband also uses light to monitor and record brain activity changes, helping to track progress.
The Inspiration Behind Neurode
Neurode’s co-founder, Nathalie Gouailhardou, a neuroscientist diagnosed with ADHD at five, struggled with stimulant treatments. The side effects, such as insomnia and anxiety, outweighed the benefits for her. This personal experience inspired her to find a better solution.
While working at the Bionics Institute, Gouailhardou used fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy) brain imaging machines. She saw how rare access to these machines was, even for neuroscientists, and began wondering if the technology could be adapted for at-home use.
Turning a Big Idea into a Wearable Device
To explore the possibility, she contacted Damian Sofrevski, a friend and now co-founder. Together, they set out to reduce the cost and size of the brain imaging device by 100 times. Their vision became the foundation for Neurode’s innovation.
Founded in 2021, Neurode quickly filed patents for the device and raised $3.5 million in pre-seed funding. Led by Khosla Ventures, the funding aims to support clinical trials and further development.
The Road to FDA Approval
Currently, the headband is available through a private beta. While Neurode’s goal is to achieve FDA approval, there is no set timeline for the process.
Alex Morgan, a partner at Khosla Ventures, explained that the ADHD treatment space is in dire need of innovation. He highlighted that while stimulant medications can be effective, they have limitations, including being banned in some countries like Japan due to side effects. Neurode’s approach stood out because it offers a non-drug alternative that can be easily used at home.
Beyond ADHD: Potential for Broader Use
Neurode’s technology may extend beyond ADHD. The wearable headband could potentially track and treat other conditions such as age-related cognitive decline and depression. The company plans to explore these areas in the future.
“I’m grateful to be building something that not only helps me but also benefits others,” said Gouailhardou. “Having ADHD has its challenges, but being able to empower myself and solve my own problem while helping others is incredibly rewarding.”
