A Double Blind Crossover Study on the Effect of MPH on Decision-making Ability of Adults With BPD Compared to Adults With ADHD and Healthy Adults

A Double Blind Crossover Study on the Effect of Methylphenidate on Decision-making Ability of Adults With Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Compared to Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Healthy Adults

The study assesses the effect of Ritalin on working memory,attention,and decision-making measures in adults with BPD and compares it to its effect on healthy adults and adults with BPD (using data form study SHA 01-10), in a double-blind crossover design. The investigators hypothesize that Ritalin will result in better performance in all measures.

Participants will be required to arrive at the cognitive laboratory in "Shalvata" for two visits: the first visit will include obtaining informed consent, screening (as detailed below), and performing a battery of computerized tasks. The second visit will include performing of the same battery of tasks, and payment.

In one of the visits, participants will receive a capsule containing Methylphenidate or placebo (MPH; Ritalin) (dosage: 10 mg in case weight<40 kg; 30 mg in case weight>90 kg; otherwise 20 mg -( The pills will be 10mg each, and the number of pills will be administered according to the dosage stated; 1-3 pills, according to weight). Prior to performing the tasks, and in the other visit they will receive a capsule containing placebo.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults in the age of 21-50 with diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Exclusion Criteria:

• People diagnosed with a clinical disorder other than BPD or ADD/ADHD that may impair their performance in the tasks used in the study.
• People for whom there is a contra-indication for consuming Ritalin.
• Pregnant women and nursing women; Women participants will be required to report whether they are pregnant, and in case they are, they will not participate.