Effect of atomoxetine on executive function impairments in adults with ADHD.
Author(s): Brown TE, Holdnack J, Saylor K, Adler L, Spencer T, Williams DW, Padival AK,
Schuh K, Trzepacz PT, Kelsey D.
Affiliation(s): Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06517, USA. tebrownyu@aol.com
Publication date & source: 2011, J Atten Disord. , 15(2):130-8
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.
METHOD: 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.
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