Clinical efficacy of atomoxetine hydrochloride combined with electroencephalographic biofeedback in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) adversely affects the learning, social interaction, and daily living of affected children. Atomoxetine (ATX) hydrochloride (HCI) has been widely used in clinical practice. Electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback, as a non-pharmacological treatment approach, has also demonstrated potential in improving symptoms in children with ADHD. We aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of combining ATX HCI with EEG biofeedback in the treatment of ADHD in children. We hypothesized that this combined therapy would be more effective in alleviating symptoms in children with ADHD. Ninety children with ADHD were randomly separated into the control group (receiving ATX HCI treatment for 12 weeks) and study group (receiving ATX HCI treatment for 12 weeks combined with 60 sessions of EEG biofeedback treatment) (n = 45). Swanson, Nolan and Pelham-IV (SNAP-IV) rating scale scores, Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test (IVA-CPT) results, Conners Parent Symptom Questionnaire (PSQ) scores, and adverse reactions were counted. After 12 weeks of treatment, SNAP-IV scores were lower in both groups and were much lower in the study group; FAQ and FRCQ scores were elevated in both groups and were much higher in the study group; PSQ scores were lower in both groups and were much lower in the study group (all P < 0.05). During the treatment period, there was no difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between both groups (P > 0.05). The treatment combination of ATX HCI and EEG biofeedback is effective for children with ADHD, improving their behavioral issues and psychological conditions.

Significance statement This study lays a foundation to explore the combined effects of ATX HCI and EEG biofeedback in children with ADHD.