Efficacy of atomoxetine for the treatment of ADHD symptoms in patients with pervasive developmental disorders: a prospective, open-label study

J Atten Disord. 2013 Aug;17(6):497-505. doi: 10.1177/1087054711423626. Epub 2012 Feb 23.

Abstract

Objective: Atomoxetine's tolerance and efficacy were studied in 24 patients with pervasive developmental disorder and symptoms of ADHD.

Method: Prospective, open-label, 16-week study was performed, using the variables of the Clinical Global Impression Scale and the Conners' Scale, among others.

Results: A significant difference was found between pre- and posttreatment scores as well as a significant reduction was found on the scales used. Only five patients presented adverse events.

Conclusion: Atomoxetine therefore appears to be a useful drug, pointing to the need for larger, randomized, controlled, double-blind studies to confirm its efficacy versus placebo and in comparison with other treatment options.

Keywords: ADHD; atomoxetine; autism; pervasive developmental disorder; treatment.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Atomoxetine Hydrochloride
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / drug therapy*
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / epidemiology
  • Child, Preschool
  • Comorbidity
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Pilot Projects
  • Propylamines / administration & dosage
  • Propylamines / adverse effects
  • Propylamines / pharmacology*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors
  • Propylamines
  • Atomoxetine Hydrochloride