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Cited by 217Autism Spectrum Disorder ResearchAttention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderChild Nutrition and Feeding Issues

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An update on pharmacotherapy for autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents

Ji, Na Young, Findling, Robert L.·2015·Current Opinion in Psychiatry
DOI 10.1097/yco.0000000000000132
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Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although there is no known efficacious pharmacotherapy for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), psychotropic medications are commonly prescribed for behavioral/emotional symptoms associated with ASD. We reviewed current evidence-based pharmacotherapy options and updates from recent noteworthy studies. RECENT FINDINGS: Atypical antipsychotics, particularly risperidone and aripiprazole, are effective in reducing irritability, stereotypy and hyperactivity. Metabolic adverse events, including weight gain and dyslipidemia, are common. Methylphenidate is effective in reducing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Atomoxetine and alpha-2 agonists appear effective in reducing ADHD symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are not effective in improving repetitive behaviors in children with ASD, and frequently cause activating adverse events. Efficacy of antiepileptic drugs is inconclusive. Overall, efficacy and tolerability of pharmacotherapy in children with ASD are less favorable than data seen in typically developing children with similar symptoms. Newer agents, including glutamatergic agents and oxytocin, appear promising albeit with mixed results. SUMMARY: Current evidence-based pharmacotherapy options in children with ASD are very limited, and many have substantial adverse events. Clinicians should use pharmacotherapy as a part of comprehensive treatment, and judiciously weigh risks and benefits. New pharmacotherapy options for core symptoms as well as co-occurring symptoms of ASD are in urgent need.

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Metadata

Authors
Ji, N. Y., & Findling, R. L.
Affiliations
Kennedy Krieger Institute (US)
Corresponding author
Ji, Na Young
ORCID
Findling, Robert L.
Venue
Current Opinion in Psychiatry
Publisher
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Published
2015-03
Volume
28
Issue
2
Pages
91-101
ISSN
0951-7367 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1097/yco.0000000000000132
OpenAlex
W2017519608
Cited by
217
References
130
Citations by year
2026: 5 · 2025: 5 · 2024: 6 · 2023: 8 · 2022: 20 · 2021: 27 · 2020: 35 · 2019: 27 · 2018: 19 · 2017: 20 · 2016: 35 · 2015: 9
FWCI
2.72
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
  • Current Opinion in Psychiatry (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cognitive Neuroscience › Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Psychiatry and Mental health › Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Psychiatry and Mental health › Child Nutrition and Feeding Issues
Keywords
autism spectrum disorder, pharmacotherapy, atypical antipsychotics, risperidone, aripiprazole, irritability, stereotypy, hyperactivity, methylphenidate, atomoxetine, alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, repetitive behavior, antiepileptic drugs, glutamatergic agents, oxytocin, metabolic side effects, children and adolescents
MeSH terms
Adolescent, Child, Child Development Disorders, Pervasive, Humans, Antipsychotic Agents

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