Improvement in health-related quality of life in children with ADHD: an analysis of placebo controlled studies of atomoxetine.
Despite significant functional impairments associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the growing appreciation of the importance of health-related quality of life (HRQL) assessment in children with chronic disorders, relatively few studies have examined the impact of ADHD treatment on HRQL. This investigation examines the effect of atomoxetine, a nonstimulant treatment for ADHD, on HRQL and identifies factors that are predictive of HRQL improvements. The Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ), which is a multidimensional HRQL measure, was collected during three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. Children who received atomoxetine had significantly greater improvement in psychosocial functioning compared to the placebo group. No significant differences between once-a-day and twice-a-day dosing were found. Treatment with atomoxetine, lower HRQL baseline score, no history of stimulant use, and absence of oppositional defiant disorder were all associated with improvements in psychosocial functioning. Findings demonstrate the positive impact of atomoxetine on HRQL in children with ADHD.
Perwien
Amy R
AR
Outcomes Research, US Medical Division, Eli Lilly & Company, Indianapolis, Indiana 46285, USA.
Faries
Douglas E
DE
Kratochvil
Christopher J
CJ
Sumner
Calvin R
CR
Kelsey
Douglas K
DK
Allen
Albert J
AJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011437:Propylamines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011788:Quality of Life; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride