The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Simtriyo (centanafadine), a new medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults, teens, and children ages 6 and up. Simtriyo is a norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin reuptake inhibitor (NDSRI) and central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that treats ADHD by boosting three brain chemicals: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.
How Simtriyo Works
Most ADHD medications raise the levels of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. Simtriyo, however, is the first to also boost serotonin, which affects mood and executive functioning. This gives people with ADHD a new option for improving not just core ADHD symptoms but also mood and executive functioning.
Simtriyo is an extended-release pill taken once a day and has been shown to work without causing some of the side effects associated with other ADHD stimulants and non-stimulants. According to Jodi Gold, MD, an adult and pediatric psychiatrist, the idea of finding a good medication for ADHD that doesn’t have a big impact on sleep, insomnia, and appetite is significant.
Clinical Trials and Side Effects
Otsuka, the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Simtriyo, conducted four phase 3 clinical trials that included adults, adolescents, and children. The trials found the drug to be safe for use by kids, teens, and adults. Side effects were mostly mild, with about a third of adults and children and half of adolescents experiencing side effects after taking Simtriyo.
Common side effects reported in the clinical trials included insomnia, decreased appetite, and headache. However, Simtriyo seems less likely to cause these side effects compared to other ADHD medications like Ritalin.
Availability and Next Steps
Simtriyo will be available later this year after scheduling by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It is a new drug, so it may not be covered by insurance right away. If you are interested in seeing if it’s an option for you, the first step is to talk to your healthcare provider.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
