Simulated driving changes in young adults with ADHD receiving mixed amphetamine salts extended release and atomoxetine.

Background: Psychostimulant treatment may improve simulated driving performance in young adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Method: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study of simulated driving performance with mixed amphetamine salts-extended release (MAS XR) 50 mg/day (Cohort 1) and atomoxetine 80 mg/day (Cohort 2) in young adults with ADHD.

Results: Adults aged 19 to 25 years with AD/HD (N = 19) who were administered MAS XR significantly improved overall simulated driving performance versus placebo up to 12 hours after dosing. In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in simulated-driving-performance scores between atomoxetine and placebo. At endpoint, MAS XR reduced ADHD Rating Scale scores > or = 30% in 80% of subjects, whereas atomoxetine achieved this level of improvement for 40%.

Limitations: Small sample size and use of simulated driving may limit generalizability of the findings.

Conclusion: MAS XR in young adults with ADHD yields significant improvements in simulated driving performance and ADHD symptoms.