Attenace: Upcoming Treatment Option For ADHD

For decades, the options for pharmacological treatment of ADHD have been limited to methylphenidate (Ritalin), various forms of amphetamine, atomoxetine (Strattera), and pemoline (Cylert).  Methylphenidate and amphetamine are Schedule-II drugs, meaning that they are designated as having a high potential for abuse.  Pemoline has been associated with liver damage, so it is not a first-line option.  There have been recent reports of liver damage with Strattera as well.  Although it remains to be seen how widespread the atomoxetine problem is, it is difficult to be enthusiastic about atomoxetine until that question is resolved.  Other options, such as bupropion and tricyclic antidepressants, have limited efficacy.  Therefore, there is a need for a better option.  See CNS Spectrums Apr 2003, 8(4) p253-8 for a review of nonstimulant treatment options for ADHD. 

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