Efficacy and Safety of Atomoxetine Hydrochloride in Asian Adults With ADHD

Abstract

Objective: The efficacy and safety of atomoxetine was assessed in adult ADHD patients from Japan, Korea, and Taiwan in this first placebo-controlled Asian clinical study in adults of an ADHD medication.

Method: Atomoxetine was compared with placebo (195 atomoxetine, 196 placebo) over 10 weeks. The change from baseline to endpoint and changes over time in the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale-Investigator Rated: Screening Version total score (CAARS-Inv: SV total score) were assessed along with changes in quality of life (QoL) and executive function.

Results: Atomoxetine treatment resulted in a mean reduction of -14.3 (placebo, -8.8) in CAARS-Inv: SV total score and a steady increase of between-group differences from Week 2. Improvements in QoL and executive functioning were also observed. Treatment-emergent adverse events leading to discontinuation were infrequent (atomoxetine: 5.2%, placebo: 1.5%).

Conclusion: Atomoxetine was tolerable and effective in improving QoL and executive function as well as ameliorating core ADHD symptoms in adult Asian patients.