Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J70037

Journal:


Brain Injury

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 28, 12, 1514-1522

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study investigated whether atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitor with a primary indication for attention, would improve attention impairment following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Fifty-five adults with a history of a single moderate-to-severe TBI for at least 1 year and self-reported complaints of attention difficulties received 40 milligrams of atomoxetine or a placebo twice a day for 2 weeks. Outcome measures included the Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) Computerized Cognitive Assessment System, the Stroop Color and Word Test, the Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale, and the Neurobehavioural Functioning Inventory. Atomoxetine was well-tolerated by the subject sample. The use of atomoxetine by individuals with reported attention difficulty following TBI did not significantly improve scores on measures of attention, the CDR Power of Attention domain, or the Stroop Interference score. In addition, no significant relationship was found between atomoxetine use and self-reported symptoms of attention or depression. Atomoxetine did not significantly improve performance on measures of attention among individuals post-TBI with difficulties with attention. This study follows a trend of other pharmacological studies not demonstrating significant results among those with a history of TBI. Various possibilities are discussed, including the need for a more sophisticated system of classification of TBI.

Author(s):


Ripley, David L., Morey, Clare E., Gerber, Don, Harrison-Felix, Cynthia, Brenner, Lisa A., Pretz, Christopher R., Cusick, Chris, Wesnes, Keith

Participating Centers: