Atomoxetine in adults with ADHD: two randomized, placebo-controlled studies.
BACKGROUND
[corrected] Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been less studied in adults than in children, and the treatment studies reported to date have been small, single-center trials. To assess the efficacy of atomoxetine, a new and highly selective inhibitor of the norepinephrine transporter, we conducted two large, multicenter treatment trials.


METHODS
Two identical studies using randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled designs and a 10-week treatment period were conducted in adults with DSM-IV-defined ADHD as assessed by clinical history and confirmed by a structured interview (study I, n = 280; study II, n = 256). The primary outcome measure was a comparison of atomoxetine and placebo using repeated measures mixed model analysis of postbaseline values of the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale.


RESULTS
In each study, atomoxetine was statistically superior to placebo in reducing both inattentive and hyperactive and impulsive symptoms as assessed by primary and secondary measures. Discontinuations for adverse events among atomoxetine patients were under 10% in both studies.


CONCLUSIONS
Atomoxetine appears to be an efficacious treatment for adult ADHD. Its lack of abuse potential may be an advantage for many patients.
Michelson
David
D
Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana 46285, USA.
Adler
Lenard
L
Spencer
Thomas
T
Reimherr
Frederick W
FW
West
Scott A
SA
Allen
Albert J
AJ
Kelsey
Douglas
D
Wernicke
Joachim
J
Dietrich
Anthony
A
Milton
Denái
D
D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011437:Propylamines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride