Atomoxetine Treatment for Cocaine Abuse and Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Preliminary Open Trial

The purpose of this 12-week open trial was to evaluate the potential utility of atomoxetine for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in cocaine-dependent treatment seekers. The sample consisted of 20 participants with all participants meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for ADHD and cocaine dependence (CD). Using several measures to assess ADHD, there was a significant reduction in ADHD symptoms. There was no significant decrease in cocaine use throughout the trial. Taken together, although cocaine-dependent individuals showed some reduction in ADHD symptoms while receiving atomoxetine, the high drop-out rate and lack of impact on cocaine use may limit its utility in ADHD adults who are currently abusing cocaine.