A Brief Replication Study Comparing Stimulants and Non-Stimulants for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment with a Focus on the Compliance, Efficacy, and Satisfaction

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the compliance, efficacy, and satisfaction associated with methylphenidate and atomoxetine for treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS: The subjects were 44 patients who met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD and were treated with methylphenidate or atomoxetine. The methylphenidate formulations included immediate release (IR), extended release (ER), and osmotic-controlled release oral delivery system (OROS). Patients and parents reported the average number of days per week the medication was taken. Efficacy was assessed using the ADHD Rating Scale. Satisfaction with medication scale (SAMS)–parent report form and SAMS–self-report form were used to evaluate parents’ and patients’ satisfaction, respectively. RESULTS: Patients and parents were more satisfied with methylphenidate than with atomoxetine. There were no significant differences in the compliance with and efficacy of methylphenidate and atomoxetine. Compliance with methylphenidate IR and ER was markedly lower than that with OROS methylphenidate or atomoxetine. CONCLUSION: Methylphenidate OROS formulation can be considered a suitable option given its high rates of compliance, satisfaction, and efficacy.