Atomoxetine attenuates dextroamphetamine effects in humans

Although preclinical studies support the contribution of the noradrenergic system activation in mediating the acute effects of amphetamines, these findings have not been followed up in clinical studies.

To examine the effects of atomoxetine, a norepinephrine transporter inhibitor, on subjective, physiological, and plasma cortisol responses to dextroamphetamine in 10 healthy volunteers.

Subjects were randomly assigned to a sequence of atomoxetine (40 mg/day) or placebo treatments each lasting for 4 days. On Day 4 of each treatment period, responses to a single 20 mg/70 kg dose of dextroamphetamine were assessed.

Atomoxetine treatment attenuated dextroamphetamine-induced increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and plasma cortisol as well as the self-report ratings of "stimulated," "high," and "good drug effects."

These findings are consistent with previous preclinical studies supporting the role of the noradrenergic system in mediating acute amphetamine responses.

Atomoxetine's capacity to attenuate some of the physiological and subjective responses to dextroamphetamine supports its potential use for stimulant addiction.