Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

Which medication is FDA approved for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and works through selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibition?

1. Atomoxetine

2. Bupropion

3. Dexmethylphenidate

4. Guanfacine

The correct answer is: Atomoxetine

Atomoxetine is the correct answer because it is the only medication among the options listed that is specifically approved by the FDA for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and functions primarily as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Its mechanism involves increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain, which is believed to contribute to its efficacy in managing symptoms of ADHD. This selectivity for norepinephrine distinguishes atomoxetine from other medications like bupropion, which primarily acts on dopamine and norepinephrine but is not FDA-approved specifically for ADHD. Dexmethylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that influences dopamine and norepinephrine but does not target selective norepinephrine reuptake. Guanfacine, while used in the treatment of ADHD, primarily acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and does not function through selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Thus, atomoxetine is unique in its specific approval and mechanism of action for treating ADHD, making it the most appropriate choice.