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Atomoxetine in adults with ADHD: two randomized, placebo-controlled studies
David Michelson1, Lenard Adler, Thomas Spencer
1Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana 46285, USA.
Biological Psychiatry
|January 28, 2003
Summary
Atomoxetine effectively treats adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by reducing inattentive and hyperactive symptoms. This study found atomoxetine to be a safe and efficacious treatment option for adults with ADHD.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is understudied compared to childhood ADHD.
- Previous treatment studies for adult ADHD were limited in scope and size.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine transporter inhibitor, in treating adult ADHD.
- To conduct large-scale, multicenter trials to provide robust evidence for treatment efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies were conducted over 10 weeks.
- Participants were adults diagnosed with ADHD using DSM-IV criteria and structured interviews.
- The Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale was used to measure treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Atomoxetine demonstrated statistically significant superiority over placebo in alleviating both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms.
- Adverse event-related discontinuations were less than 10% in atomoxetine treatment groups.
- The drug proved effective across primary and secondary outcome measures.
Conclusions:
- Atomoxetine is an effective treatment for adult ADHD.
- The medication's low abuse potential is a significant benefit for patient populations.
- Further research supports atomoxetine as a viable therapeutic option for adult ADHD management.