The science behind Simtriyo, the first ADHD medication to target three major neurotransmitters

Simtriyo, the first ADHD medication to target three major neurotransmitters, has entered the treatment toolbox. Centanafadine is a once-a-day tablet approved for adults and children aged six years and older in the United States. It differs from other ADHD medicines as it affects three brain chemicals - noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin.

Most ADHD medicines mainly increase the activity of dopamine and noradrenaline. Centanafadine works by slowing down the brain's reuptake process, leaving more of these chemicals available for longer, which may help reduce problems with attention, hyperactivity, and self-control.

Centanafadine is different from stimulants like dexamfetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and methylphenidate, as it also affects serotonin. However, its classification as a stimulant or not is still debated. Compared to antidepressants, which primarily affect serotonin, centanafadine affects all three neurotransmitters, making it unique. Although it was tested in phase-3 clinical trials, its effectiveness compared to existing ADHD medications, such as Strattera, hasn't been definitively established yet.

Common side effects of centanafadine include reduced appetite, insomnia, dry mouth, and headache. Some participants experienced less insomnia, anxiety, dry mouth, and loss of appetite compared to lisdexamfetamine. However, further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits for anxiety and depression. Centanafadine's availability in Australia hasn't been determined yet, as it hasn't been approved by Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) or listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).