3 research outputs found
Validity and reliability of a parent interview for children symptoms (PICS-IV) for the diagnosis of Disruptive Behavior Disorders in Italian children
Predictive parameters for methylphenidate use and compliance in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Factor structure and cultural aspects of disruptive behaviour disorders symptoms in Italian children.
Background: The efficacy of atomoxetine in maintaining symptom response following 1 year of treatment was assessed in children and
adolescents (n. 163) with DSM-IV defined attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Methods: Subjects had previously responded to atomoxetine acutely and had completed 1 year of double-blind atomoxetine treatment.
They were then randomly assigned in double-blind fashion to continued atomoxetine or placebo substitution for 6 months.
Results: Atomoxetine was superior to placebo in preventing relapse (Wilcoxon test, p .008) and in maintaining symptom response
(ADHD Rating Scale IV score, p.001). Among subjects assigned to discontinuation, the magnitude of symptom return was generally to a
level of severity less than that observed at study entry.
Conclusions: Following 1 year of treatment with atomoxetine, continued treatment over the ensuing 6 months was associated with
superior outcomes compared with placebo substitution. However, there was considerable variability between individuals in the magnitude
of symptom return after drug discontinuation, suggesting that some subjects treated with atomoxetine for a year with good results may
consolidate gainsmadeduring drug treatment and could benefit from a medication-free trial to assess the need for ongoing drug treatment