Medicines for autism
Medicines have a limited role in improving symptoms of autism. However, some may help prevent self-injury and other behaviors that are causing difficulty. Medicines may also take a child to a functional level at which they can benefit from other treatments.
There is no standard medicine for the treatment of autism. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests targeting the main one or two problem behaviors when considering medicines.
Medicines that are sometimes used to treat behaviors related to autism include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and antipsychotic medicines
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft, Lustral). The high rate of effectiveness for depression, anxiety, and obsessive, stereotypical behaviors has made these medicines a popular choice for managing autism. They may also improve general behavior, language, learning, and socialization. In addition, although SSRIs have side effects, such as weight gain, insomnia, and increased agitation, they tend to be less serious than those of antipsychotic medicines
Antipsychotic medicines
Antipsychotic medicines, such as haloperidol (Haldol), risperidone (Risperdal), and thioridazine work by changing the effects of brain chemicals. They may help decrease problem behaviors that can occur with autism. A well-designed study found that risperidone was effective for the treatment of tantrums, aggression, and self-harming behavior in children with autism.
However, these medicines can have side effects, including sleepiness, tremors, and weight gain. Their use is usually considered only after behavior management has failed to address the problem behaviors.
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