Reboxetine versus methylphenidate in treatment of children and adolescents with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Background and purpose: Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric diagnosis among children and adolescents. This study has been conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of reboxetine in comparison with methylphenidate in treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD.

Methods: Thirty three children, 7-16 years of age, diagnosed with ADHD, participated in a 6-week, double-blind clinical trial with reboxetine (4-6 mg/d) and methylphenidate (20-50 mg/d) in two divided doses. The principal measure of the outcome was the Teacher and Parent ADHD Rating Scale. Patients were assessed by a child psychiatrist at baseline, 14, 28, and 42 days after the start of medication.

Results: No significant differences were observed between the two protocols on the Parent (P = 0.26) and Teacher (P = 0.97) ADHD Rating Scale scores and in treatment dropouts. A significant improvement in ADHD symptoms was observed over the 6 weeks of treatment for Parent ADHD Rating Scale (P < 0.001) and Teacher ADHD Rating Scale score in both groups (P < 0.001). The most common adverse effects reported with reboxetine were drowsiness and anorexia with mild to moderate severity.

Conclusions: The study revealed that reboxetine may be beneficial in treatment of ADHD. Further studies are required to clarify the potential therapeutic effects on comorbid depression and anxiety and adverse effect profile.