Insignificant effects of atomoxetine on thyroid functions in children and adolescents with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in short term

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of atomoxetine on thyroid functions in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Methods: A retrospective chart review was done to evaluate the thyroid function tests of patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and treated with only atomoxetine. The thyroid function tests of 38 subjects, from both before atomoxetine was started and during an effective dose of atomoxetine treatment, were found from the patient charts and compared statistically. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the baselines levels of thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH), free T4, and free T3 values and those during an effective dose of atomoxetine treatment. In one subject, four weeks after atomoxetine was started and titrated to the effective dose, an insignificant increase in TSH was observed, which decreased to the normal range after the discontinuation of the atomoxetine treatment. Conclusion: Therapeutic doses of atomoxetine do not seem to change thyroid functions in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.