Can Pharmacological Interventions Have Therapeutic Effects on Internet Gaming Disorder: A Systemic Review and Meta-analysis

Purpose of Review The efficacy of pharmacological treatments in patients with Internet gaming disorder (IGD) remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of different pharmacological treatments for IGD symptoms. Recent Findings Depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms are frequently reported as psychological factors associated with internet gaming disorder (IGD). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based psychotherapy has been the most extensively studied non-pharmacological intervention for treating IGD. Several clinical trials of pharmacological interventions have reported positive findings for treating IGD. However, the heterogeneity of participants (e.g., those with comorbid ADHD, comorbid depression, or no psychiatric comorbidities) and the variety of clinical trial designs (e.g., placebo-controlled studies, head-to-head comparisons, and single-arm pre-post designs) make it challenging to draw definitive conclusions. Summary In parallel studies, both bupropion and escitalopram showed greater efficacy in improving IGD symptoms compared to placebo. In pre- and post-treatment assessments, both bupropion and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) also improved IGD symptoms. Bupropion and SSRIs were effective in patients with and without comorbid depression. Concerta (slow-release methylphenidate) and atomoxetine, in studies with two and one intervention arms, respectively, both demonstrated significant effects on IGD symptoms in patients with comorbid ADHD. Preliminary evidence suggests that psychopharmacological approaches may add value in the treatment of IGD; however, further research is needed to confirm the causal relationship between medication and IGD symptom improvement.