ADHD improvements with new regimen

Shire Pharmaceuticals has presented results from a clinical trial demonstrating that children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experienced significant quality of life improvements and ADHD symptom control, when treated with a regimen that included once-daily Adderall XR (a mixed salts amphetamine product). Data from the largest ADHD clinical trial conducted to date, involving more than 2,900 patients, were presented at the American Psychiatric Association (APA) annual meeting.

ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder in children and adolescents. Approximately 2m US children, three to seven percent of all school-aged children, have been diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms of ADHD have a profound effect on a child's quality of life and can be serious enough to interfere beyond academics. Children with ADHD may also have problems maintaining friendships, focusing on sports and other after-school activities and relating well within their own families.

'This largest study ever of ADHD patients establishes the significant improvements that treatment with Adderall XR brings in decreasing symptoms. Such symptom control allows children to functionally improve and participate in life, such as engage in sports, get along with other kids, or help with chores,' said Paul J. Ambrosini, M.D., professor of psychiatry at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pa., and lead investigator of the study, known as Long-acting ADDerall Community Assessment Trial (LADD.CAT).

Children in the LADD.CAT trial previously were taking either Adderall, Concerta or another methylphenidate product, and switched to once-daily Adderall XR. Results demonstrated significant improvement in participant's quality of life, as measured on the 23-item Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, a validated health-related assessment tool designed to measure four health dimensions outlined by the World Health Organization: physical, emotional, social and school functioning.