A Pilot Study of the Effects of Atomoxetine on Driving Performance in Adults With ADHD

Abstract

Objective: There is a high risk of vehicular crashes, traffic citations, and poorer driving performance in adults with ADHD. This pilot study examines the value of a new nonstimulant (atomoxetine) for improving the driving performance of adults with ADHD. Method: Atomoxetine (1.2 mg/kg daily for 3 weeks) and a placebo are studied on 18 adults with ADHD ( M age = 37 years) using ratings of ADHD symptoms, impairment, and safe driving behavior; a virtual reality driving simulator; and ratings of simulator performance. Results: Atomoxetine improves self-ratings of ADHD symptoms, impairments, safe driving behavior, and simulator driving performance. No effects of atomoxetine are evident on others’ ratings of driving behavior or on the simulator. Practice effects on the simulator may have obscured those drug effects. Conclusion: The authors find a mixed pattern of results such that atomoxetine warrants further study for its effects on driving in this high-risk population.