title: A randomized, waiting list-controlled 12-week trial of atomoxetine in adults with ADHD.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  With the increasing recognition of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) there is an emerging need to investigate medication in this population.
  
  
  METHODS
  In this waiting list-controlled trial, 64 ADHD-patients (mean age 35.8 ± 8.7 years) were randomly assigned to a daily dosage of up to 80 mg atomoxetine (Atx) or waiting list for 12-weeks. Primary outcome was the change of the observer-rated DSM-IV total ADHD score on the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARSO: L DSM-IV total ADHD score) from baseline to endpoint. Other efficacy measures included selfrated CAARS-S:L DSM-IV total ADHD score, CAARS-O/S:L problems with self-concept and emotional lability score, Wender-Reimherr Adult Attention Defi cit Disorder Scale Emotional Dysregulation Score, and General Activities Score on the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire. Efficacy measures were analysed in the per-protocol population.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Mean change in CAARS:O-L DSM-IV total ADHD score was -13.1 ± 7.7 in the Atx vs. -0.4 ± 4.8 in the control group (p < 0.005). Treatment response ( ≥ 30 % reduction) was 60.1 % in the Atx vs. 0 % in the waiting list group. The other efficacy measures also showed significant improvements. The overall incidence of adverse events (AEs) was 70.4 % in the Atx group, the most frequent included fatigue, irritability, nausea and decreased appetite. In Atx-treated patients 18.5 % discontinued early due to AEs.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Our results suggest that Atx is an effective treatment in adult ADHD. It reduces ADHD core and associated emotional symptoms and increases self-esteem and quality of life. AEs were consistent with those reported in other studies in adult ADHD.
authors.affiliation: Central Institute of Mental Health Mannheim, Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany. esther.sobanski@zi-mannheim.de
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Sobanski
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Sabljic
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Alm
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Baehr
authors.forename: R W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Dittmann
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Skopp
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Strohbeck-Kuehner
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D000328:Adult; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011437:Propylamines / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014850:Waiting Lists; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D011437:Propylamines; D000069445:Atomoxetine Hydrochloride