Effects of Short- and Long-Term Risperidone Treatment on Prolactin Levels in Children with Autism

Layperson Summary:

Risperidone therapy can increase levels of the hormone prolactin, which may hurt a child's normal growth.

Risperidone is used to treat tantrums and bad behavior in children with autism. This study was designed to measure the short- and long-term effects of risperidone therapy on blood levels of prolactin. Before starting risperidone therapy, the children with autism had the same levels of prolactin as children in the general public. The study found a 2-4-fold increase in blood prolactin levels in children with autism who received a low-medium dose of risperidone (1.8-2 mg/day). The increases in prolactin seen in children with autism were the same as the increases seen in children who received risperidone for other reasons.

Scientific Abstract