Abbott developing adult ADHD drug

LIBERTYVILLE TOWNSHIP -- Abbott Laboratories and other researchers say the latest tests of a new drug, ABT-089, is a potentially effective and safe treatment for adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD. The studies were presented Wednesday at the American Psychiatric Association's 161st annual meeting in Washington, D.C. ADHD, an ailment historically associated with childhood, persists into adulthood in more than two-thirds of cases. The study showed the drug significantly improves symptoms of ADHD, quality-of-life and work effectiveness in adults, and appears to be well tolerated with no significant negative effects on sleep, appetite or vital signs, Abbott said.