FDA approves Lilly's ADHD drug Strattera

Eli Lilly has won FDA approval of Strattera, a therapy designed to treat ADHD. Lilly says this is the first regulatory win for a non-stimulant ADHD drug in a market dominated by two stimulants--Adderall (Shire) and Ritalin (Novartis). And researchers say that the data indicates the drug works past the 3 o'clock bell and into the evening.

There is a slight increase of suicidal thoughts for children and teens in the data; .4 percent in the Strattera group compared to none in the control group. In adults there was no discernible increase in suicidal thoughts.

"The approval provides physicians and their patients with the first treatment option that is indicated for maintenance of ADHD" said Thomas J. Spencer, M.D., Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School. "This is critical as ADHD may be a life-long disease and effective long-term control of symptoms may mean improved outcomes in children and adolescents."

- check out the press release [1]
- read the AP report [2]

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Lilly sues Sun Pharma to protect Strattera [4]
Feds to study ADHD drugs for heart risks [5]