LOGO
EN

Combination of atomoxetine and methylphenidate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – a narrative review

Tomasz Wolańczyk1, Zuzanna Brzozowska2

Affiliacja i adres do korespondencji
Psychiatr Psychol Klin 2021, 21 (4), p. 274–280
DOI: 10.15557/PiPK.2021.0031
PlumX metrics:
Streszczenie

There is evidence for the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychostimulants (mainly methylphenidate) and atomoxetine are the most commonly used agents. However, due to incomplete efficacy or adverse effects it is not always possible to achieve complete symptom remission with monotherapy. In such cases, attempts are made to combine methylphenidate and atomoxetine. Although this combination has not been officially recognised as a recommended therapeutic strategy due to the limited scientific evidence, it may be found in some guidelines as a last resort option after failure with several consecutive monotherapies. The research data is in contrast with the registry data, which shows that the combination is used in many countries in up to a few percent of patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The aim of the paper is to present research data on the efficacy and safety of combined methylphenidate/atomoxetine therapy and its use in clinical practice, as well as to discuss its potential place in the therapeutic process.

Słowa kluczowe
ADHD, psychopharmacotherapy, methylphenidate, atomoxetine, polytherapy