Simulated driving changes in young adults with ADHD receiving mixed amphetamine salts extended release and atomoxetine.
BACKGROUND
Psychostimulant treatment may improve simulated driving performance in young adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).


METHODS
This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study of simulated driving performance with mixed amphetamine salts-extended release (MAS XR) 50 mg/day (Cohort 1) and atomoxetine 80 mg/day (Cohort 2) in young adults with ADHD.


RESULTS
Adults aged 19 to 25 years with AD/HD (N = 19) who were administered MAS XR significantly improved overall simulated driving performance versus placebo up to 12 hours after dosing. In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in simulated-driving-performance scores between atomoxetine and placebo. At endpoint, MAS XR reduced ADHD Rating Scale scores > or = 30% in 80% of subjects, whereas atomoxetine achieved this level of improvement for 40%.


CONCLUSIONS
Small sample size and use of simulated driving may limit generalizability of the findings.


CONCLUSIONS
MAS XR in young adults with ADHD yields significant improvements in simulated driving performance and ADHD symptoms.
Kay
Gary G
GG
Cognitive Research Corporation, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA. gkay@cogres.com
Michaels
M Alex
MA
Pakull
Barton
B
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000328:Adult; D000661:Amphetamine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D001334:Automobile Driving / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011437:Propylamines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D055815:Young Adult
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D000661:Amphetamine