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THERAPEUTIC CONTROVERSIES

Atomoxetine Versus Stimulants for Treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Psychiatric Pharmacy Practice Resident/MS Student, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX

Tawny L Bettinger, PharmD

Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin

Nick C Patel, PharmD PhD

Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy and Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH

M Lynn Crismon, PharmD

Professor, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin

Reprints: Dr. Bettinger, The University of Texas at Austin, 1 University Station MC#A1910, Austin, TX 78712-0124, fax 512/471-3756, bettinger{at}mail.utexas.edu

OBJECTIVE: To identify, review, and analyze studies comparing atomoxetine with psychostimulants with the intent of determining the role of atomoxetine in the pharmacologic management of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

DATA SOURCES: Primary, review, and meta-analysis articles were identified by a MEDLINE search (1966-December 2005). MeSH headings used in the search include: attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, atomoxetine, stimulants, psychostimulants, methylphenidate, and amphetamine salts. Relevant data presented at professional meetings that we attended were also identified.

STUDY SELECTION AND EXTRACTION: All clinical studies comparing atomoxetine with psychostimulants, regardless of study design, were evaluated. Relevant efficacy and safety data from these studies were included in the discussion.

DATA SYNTHESIS: At time of writing, 5 head-to-head trials had compared psychostimulants and atomoxetine in the treatment of ADHD. No significant difference between atomoxetine and methylphenidate immediate-release were found on the ADHD Rating Scale total score. Osmotic oral release system (OROS) methylphenidate showed significantly greater improvement at weeks 1 and 2, and significantly more patients treated with OROS methylphenidate were classified as responders. Patients on both atomoxetine and mixed amphetamine salts extended-release (MAS XR) showed significant improvements at endpoint over baseline; however, Swanson, Kotkin, Agler, M-Flynn, and Pelham (SKAMP) scores were significantly better with MAS XR. Tolerability was similar between atomoxetine and stimulant medications.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on available evidence, psychostimulants are regarded as first-line pharmacologic treatment for children and adolescents with ADHD, as the efficacy and safety of these agents have been well established based on clinical trials and extensive naturalistic use. Adverse effects in some patients and abuse potential have led to the search for new treatments. Atomoxetine represents an alternative treatment for ADHD and is unlikely to be associated with abuse; however, long-term safety data are needed to further establish its place in therapy.

Key Words: ADHD, atomoxetine, methylphenidate, psychostimulants, stimulants

Published Online, May 30, 2006. www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1G582

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