Atomoxetine and stroop task performance in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of atomoxetine, a new and highly selective inhibitor of the norepinephrine transporter, for executive functioning in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).


METHODS
Two identical studies using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel design were conducted. Patients were adults (Study 1, n = 280; Study 2, n = 256) with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV)-defined ADHD recruited by referral and advertising. They were randomized to 10 weeks of treatment with atomoxetine or placebo. Executive functions were measured by the Stroop task.


RESULTS
There was no evidence of cognitive deterioration associated with atomoxetine treatment. Atomoxetine treatment was associated with an improvement of the Stroop colorword score.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results provide further support for Spencer et al.'s (1998) report that atomoxetine improves inhibitory capacity, as measured by the Stroop task. The absence of cognitive deterioration from atomoxetine, along with improved performance in a subgroup of patients in this large study, supports the safety of atomoxetine in this regard and its potential for improving a significant source of impairment for adults with ADHD.
Faraone
Stephen V
SV
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York 13210, USA. faraones@upstate.edu
Biederman
Joseph
J
Spencer
Thomas
T
Michelson
David
D
Adler
Lenard
L
Reimherr
Fred
F
Seidman
Larry
L
D000328:Adult; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology*; D003118:Color Perception / Q000187:drug effects; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011437:Propylamines / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride