To explore changes in quality of life (ILC) in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity-disorder (ADHD) transitioning from Atomoxetine (ATX) or ER MPH (Medikinet retard) onto OROS MPH.

Post hoc analysis. 12 week, open label non-interventional trial in adolescents (ADHD; ICD-10 criteria) transitioning from ER MPH or Atomoxetine onto flexible dose of OROS MPHs. Effectiveness parameter were changes in IOWA Conners' parent rating scale, C-GAS, ILC adolescents and parents and questions focusing on afternoon activities.

57 adolescents were analyzed (median age 14 years, 84.2% male). Insufficient efficacy (77.2%), adverse events (3.5%) or a combination of both (19.3%) led to transition to OROS MPH. Mean dose of ER MPH prior was 34,3mg±19,3 and mean dose of atomoxetine was 53,2mg±17,9. Eight patients terminated the study prematurely. Median dose of OROS MPH at endpoint was 54mg/day. "Playing with other children", "doing household chores", "doing homework", "going to bed in the evening", and "ability to visit or receive visitors" improved (all p<0.001) as well as C-GAS (p<0.00001), Conner's parent rating scale, ILC parents and adolescent's (all p<0.001).

Adverse events (AE) with under OROS MPH treatment were reported in 45.6% of patients. AE ≥5% were involuntary muscle contractions not further specified (5.3%), insomnia (5.3%), and ineffective medication (5.3%).

Transitioning from ER MPH or ATX to OROS MPH in adolescents with ADHD was associated with an improvement in quality of life in adolescents and their parents and in daily functioning. Improved symptom control during late afternoon and early evening activities was apparent.