Atomoxetine for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children with pervasive developmental disorders: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
This pilot study examined the effects of atomoxetine on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and autistic features in children with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD).


METHODS
Twelve children (aged 6-14 years) with PDD accompanied by ADHD symptoms entered a 10-week open-label study with atomoxetine (1.19 +/- 0.41 mg/kg/day). Response was assessed by using parent and clinician rating scales with change in the ADHD-Rating Scale (ADHDRS) as primary outcome measure.


RESULTS
Atomoxetine reduced ADHD-symptoms as measured by the ADHDRS (44% decrease vs. baseline, p < 0.003), the Conners' Parent Rating Scale-R:S (CPRS-R) (25% in the subscale "Cognitive Problems," p < 0.028; 32% in "Hyperactivity," p < 0.030; and 23% in "ADHD index," p < 0.023). We found a reduction of 21% (p = 0.071) for changes in the subscale "Hyperactivity" of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC). No change was found in any of the other ABC subscales, nor in the subscale "Oppositional" of the CPRS-R. Five patients (42%) discontinued because of side effects. Gastrointestinal symptoms, irritability, sleep problems, and fatigue were the most frequent side effects.


CONCLUSIONS
These preliminary findings indicate that atomoxetine may be a promising new agent in the treatment of ADHD symptoms in children with PDD. However, children with PDD may have a higher vulnerability for some of the known side-effects of atomoxetine.
Troost
Pieter W
PW
Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands. p.troost@accare.nl
Steenhuis
Mark-Peter
MP
Tuynman-Qua
Hanneke G
HG
Kalverdijk
Luuk J
LJ
Buitelaar
Jan K
JK
Minderaa
Ruud B
RB
Hoekstra
Pieter J
PJ
D000293:Adolescent; D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D015897:Comorbidity; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D010552:Personality Assessment; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011437:Propylamines / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride