Effect of atomoxetine on executive function impairments in adults with ADHD.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effect of atomoxetine on ADHD-related executive functions over a 6-month period using the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scale (BADDS) for Adults, a normed, 40-item, self-report scale in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.


METHODS
In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial, adults with ADHD received either atomoxetine 25 to 100 mg/day or placebo for 6 months. Patients completed the BADDS to report their current daily functioning in 5 clusters of ADHD-related impairments of executive functioning: (1) Organizing and Activating to Work; (2) Focusing for Tasks; (3) Regulating Alertness and Effort; (4) Modulating Emotions; and (5) Utilizing Working Memory.


RESULTS
Mean scores were significantly more improved in the atomoxetine group compared to the placebo group: total score, -27.0 versus -19.0 (p < .001); all 5 cluster scores, p < .01.


CONCLUSIONS
Once-daily atomoxetine can improve executive function impairments in adults with ADHD as assessed by the BADDS.
Brown
Thomas E
TE
Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06517, USA. tebrownyu@aol.com
Holdnack
James
J
Saylor
Keith
K
Adler
Lenard
L
Spencer
Thomas
T
Williams
David W
DW
Padival
Anoop K
AK
Schuh
Kory
K
Trzepacz
Paula T
PT
Kelsey
Douglas
D
D000293:Adolescent; D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000328:Adult; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D056344:Executive Function / Q000187:drug effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011437:Propylamines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride