Authors' objectives:

To summarise the current research evidence on atomoxetine for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Authors' recommendations: - Clinical impact: There is likely to be a significant clinical impact from the introduction of atomoxetine due to the fact that it will be the first non-stimulant drug therapy licensed for the treatment of ADHD. - Service impact: Although there is unlikely to be a significant service impact with the introduction of atomoxetine for people already receiving specialist care for ADHD, there may be a return of parents and children with ADHD who were reluctant to accept the use of current stimulant drugs. - Patient issues: The non-stimulant nature of atomoxetine will generate interest from patients and their carers and because of its once or twice daily dose there will be no need for a dose to be taken during the school day. - Financial and overall NHS impact: It is difficult to estimate the likely financial impact of introducing atomoxetine for ADHD at this time, but it may be significant if it costs more than the relatively cheap alternatives and if it draws more patients into specialist care.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2001

URL for published report: http://www.hsric.nihr.ac.uk/search

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre

Contact Address: The NIHR Horizon Scanning Centre, Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, and Biostatistics, School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, 90 Vincent Drive, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2SP. United Kingdom. Tel: +44 121 414 7831, Fax: +44 121 2269

Contact Name: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Contact Email: c.packer@bham.ac.uk

Copyright: National Horizon Scanning Centre