Pilot Evaluation of Atomoxetine on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Symptoms in Adolescents With Cannabis abusE

An Open Label Pilot Study of Atomoxetine Hydrochloride in Adolescents With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Comorbid Cannabis Abuse.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether atomoxetine is effective in reducing ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) symptoms in adolescents with ADHD and comorbid cannabis abuse.

In the past adolescents with cannabis abuse have been excluded from studies in which atomoxetine for ADHD symptoms was studied. In this study the efficacy of atomoxetine on symptoms of ADHD in adolescents with ADHD and comorbid cannabis abuse will be studied.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis ADHD based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR)
• At least 1.5 standard deviations above the age norm for their diagnostic subtype using published norms for the ADHD Rating Scale-IV-Parent Version
• Cannabis Abuse or dependence based on the DSM-IV-TR, and using a minimum of 5 joints per week

Exclusion Criteria:

• Weight under 20 kilograms (kg)
• Patients at serious suicidal risk
• Patients with alcohol or drug abuse (other than cannabis)
• Patients who in the investigator's judgement are likely to need psychotropic medication + psychotherapy apart from atomoxetine