Atomoxetine for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adolescents With Substance Use Disorder

• DSM-IV checklist
• Side Effect Form for Children and Adolescents

• Time Line Followback Interview [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• CBT Session Adherence [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• Marijuana craving [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• HIV risk [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• Ethics questionnaire [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• Side Effect Form for Children and Adolescents [ Time Frame: 12 weeks ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]

• Time Line Followback Interview
• CBT Session Adherence
• Marijuana craving
• HIV risk
• Ethics questionnaire

The purpose of this study is to find out whether atomoxetine (also called Strattera) helps teenagers (12-19) with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and drug/alcohol problems.

Evidence-based psychosocial treatments have recently been developed. However, very little data exist on the use of pharmacotherapy for adolescents SUD (Substance Use Disorder). One promising pharmacotherapy approach is to treat co-occuring psychiatric disorders. A common co-occurring disorder in adolescent SUD is attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Fortunately, new ADHD medications, such as atomoxetine, that do not have addictive potential are now available. However, all controlled studies of atomoxetine have specifically excluded teens with SUD. Therefore, little data exist on the safety and efficacy of the medication in this population. This research project will address the important research gap with the specific aim: to conduct a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of atomoxetine for ADHD in teens with SUD.

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Substance Abuse

• Placebo Comparator: 1
  placebo
  Intervention: Drug: Atomoxetine
• Experimental: 2
  atomoxetine
  Intervention: Drug: Atomoxetine

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 12-19
• Provided assent/consent
• ADHD by KSADS
• DSM-IV checklist <=22
• At least one non-nicotine SUD by KSADS
• Plans to live locally for 4 months
• Willing to participate in CBT

Exclusion Criteria:

• No mental illness that cannot be managed as an outpatient or without concurrent psychotropic medication
• No allergy to atomoxetine
• No narrow angle glaucoma
• No serious medical illness
• Not pregnant
• Not unwilling to use an effective form of contraception during the trial
• No SUD that cannot be managed as an outpatient or without concurrent psychotropic medication