The Effects of Fluoxetine on Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Pilot Study

This study was aimed to determine the efficacy of fluoxetine in treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Twenty-two children and adolescents (6-16 years) diagnosed as having ADHD (excluding mental retardation, comorbid disorders, using concomitant medications) based on clinical psychi-atric evaluation, Diagnostic Interview for Children and Adolescents (DICA), and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-4th Edition (DSM-IV) were enrolled in an open clinical trial in a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinic, 2000-2001. Fluoxetine was prescribed 20 mg a day for 7 weeks. The efficacy was assessed before and after treatment by means of three outcome mea- sures: Children Global Assessment Scale (CGAS), Conner's Parent Rating Scale (CPRS), Conners's Teacher Rating Scale (CTRS). The side effects were assessed using a questionnaire. Moderate to robust improvement (improvement >50%) were seen in 65%. Eighty-six percent reported no side effects. Mild to moderate side effects were experienced by 14% which dimi- nished with continuation of the medication. Fluoxetine is well tolerated in children and adolescents and may be an alternative me- dication in ADHD patients who cannot take other medications.