Approximately 45% of people with autism are given drugs to manage the behavioral problems associated with autism. Experts do not fully understand, however, how these drugs are able to help people with autism. Therefore, the authors recommend that parents fully understand the possible risks and benefits of the drugs before giving them to children. The authors also suggest that parents understand whatever options are available to replace drug therapy. In addition, they recommend that drugs be given in response to a specific behavior, and that the child be studied regularly to see if the drugs are changing that behavior. This would include watching the child closely so that the child is given the best possible dose to treat the behavior and yet keep the side effects minimal. Finally, the authors recommend that drugs to help problem behaviors associated with autism be given as part of a larger therapeutic program.
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