A number of drugs are used, with indications and off-label, to treat symptoms associated with autism and additional conditions (comorbidities) associated with autism. These may include anxiety, epilepsy, and attention deficit disorders. The only two drugs that have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administraion to treat symptoms related to autism are Risperdal and Abilify. The drugs in the table below may be given to people on the autism spectrum. Click on the drug name to see all research articles, news, and comments on our site about that drug.
At Healing Thresholds, we believe that a therapy program should be specific to the child and evolve with the child. In some cases, and at some times, a therapy program may include drug therapy. The use of any prescribed medication should be closely monitored by a physician.
| Name | Generic Name | Description |
| Abilify | aripiprazole | This antidepressant was recently approved by the FDA in the United States for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder in pediatric patients 6 to 17 years of age. It is also indicated for treatment of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in adults and children. Adults are prescribed Abilify as an add-on antidepressant to treat major depressive disorder. |
| ActoPlus MET | pioglitazone hydrocloride and metformin hydrochloride | ActoPlus MET is usually prescribed for treatment of diabetes in patients who are not helped by treatment with metformin or pioglitazone alone. This combination medication works by decreasing insulin resistance and by improving sensitivity to insulin in muscle and fat tissue. Pioglitazone is being tested in people with neurological disorders, including autism, because it can also be anti-inflammatory in glial cells in the brain. Preliminary studies showed improvements in behavior in children with autism. |
| Actos | pioglitazone hydrocloride | Actos is usually prescribed for treatment of diabetes. Actos works by decreasing insulin resistance, and increasing sensitivity to insulin in muscle and fat tissue. Actos has also been shown to be anti-inflammatory in some conditions. Actos is being tested in people with neurological disorders, including autism, because it can also be anti-inflammatory in glial cells in the brain. Preliminary studies showed improvements in behavior in children with autism. |
| Adderall | amphetamine | Adderall XR is the slow release form. Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that affects chemicals in the brain and in nerves. These brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) regulate activity and impulse control. Adderall is prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (falling asleep). It may also be prescribed off-label for people with autism. Caution: amphetamines have a high potential for abuse. Administration of amphetamines for long periods may lead to drug dependence and must be avoided. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility of subjects obtaining amphetamines for non-therapeutic use or distribution to others, and the drugs should be prescribed or dispensed sparingly. Misuse of amphetamine may cause sudden death and serious cardiovascular adverse events. |
| Anafranil | clomipramine hydrocloride |
Anafranil is an antidepressant that may be prescribed off-label for children with autism to help decrease repetitive movements and improve social contacts. It is usually used to treat depression in adults. It is also approved for use in children (at least 8 years old) to treat obsessions and compulsions associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and is a type of tricyclic antidepressant. One possible serious side effect from the drug is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Aricept | donepezil hydrochloride | Aricept (the generic is donepezil hydrochloride) is indicated for treatment of mild to severe dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. Aricept ODT is the orally disintegrating tablet form of Aricept. This medication enhances cholinergic function in the brain by reducing the activity of the enzyme acetyl cholinesterase. In people with autism, Aricept or Aricept ODT may help improve attention, learning, and memory. Possible benefits of Aricept or Aricept ODT are being tested in children and adults with autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia. |
| Ativan | lorazepam | Ativan is an anti-anxiety medication that may be prescribed for people with autism to help reduce anxiety, and to help reduce symptoms of catatonia (rigid and insensitive muscles). Ativan is indicated for treatment of anxiety disorders, or for short-term treatment of anxiety associated with depression. |
| Bethanechol | bethanechol chloride | Bethanechol is prescribed for triggering urination and emptying of the bladder when urine is being retained. |
| Buspar | buspirone hydrochloride | Buspar is an antianxiety medication that is indicated for generalized anxiety disorder. Buspar may be prescribed off-label for people with autism to help reduce anxiety and aggression and to help improve behaviors. Buspar has helped improve behaviors in some people with autism. This medication is currently being tested in children and adults with autism. |
| Carbatrol - Equetro - Tegretol |
carbamazepine | Carbamazepine is the generic for three brand name drugs, Carbatrol, Equetro, and Tegretol. Carbamazepine can have serious side effects that include a serious skin reaction in people with a certain genetic background, which is more common in Asian and Caucasian (white) people than other groups. Tegretol is an anticonvulsant medication used to help control seizures. Tegretol may be prescribed for people with autism who have seizures, and can also help soften mood swings. This medication is indicated for treatment of epilepsy and for pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia. The physician should be notified immediately if any rash appears. There is also a risk of agranulocytosis and other changes in blood cells, so the person taking this medication should be monitored with regular blood tests. Carbatrol may be prescribed for people with autism who have seizures, and can also help reduce aggression. This medication is indicated for treatment of epilepsy and for pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia. There is also a risk of agranulocytosis and other changes in blood cells, so the person taking this medication should be monitored with regular blood tests. Equetro is an extended-release formulation of carbamazepine. It is indicated for the treatment of mania in bipolar disorder. Equetro can have serious side effects that include agranulocytosis and other changes in blood cells, so the person taking this medication should be monitored with regular blood tests. |
| Clozaril - FazaClo | clozapine |
This is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed off-label for children with autism to help reduce hyperactivity, fidgeting, and aggression. Clozapine is the generic and FazaClo® is the orally disintegrating form. Clozaril® lowers binding of dopamine to most types of dopamine receptors and other types of receptors on cells in the nervous system. Clozaril is usually used to treat people with severe schizophrenia, or people who repeatedly threaten to commit suicide. As an uncommon side effect, there is increased risk of seizures or agranulocytosis (a change in white blood cells that can be severe and result in death). The risks are a concern particularly in children and adolescents, and in people who might already have a risk for seizures. The risks also increase with increasing dose of the medication. Other side effects can also occur. People taking Clozaril need to be carefully monitored with regular blood tests for possible side effects. |
| Concerta | methylphenidate hydrochloride | Some children with autism also have ADHD and this drug may be helpful in treating the symptoms of ADHD. Concerta is a stimulant that is approved in the United States for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) disorder. It is understood that drug therapy is typically only one aspect of a treatment plan to help a child overcome symptoms of ADHD. |
| Depakene | valproic acid |
Depakene is available in capsule and syrup forms, this is an anticonvulsant used to treat epilepsy. This medication affects the way that cells get signals to turn on and off in the nervous system. This medication can have serious side effects, especially in children. People with autism who also have seizures might be prescribed this medication. Anti-seizure medicines may not completely eliminate seizures but might reduce the number of seizures. Doses and blood levels of this medication often need to be watched closely by a doctor or other health care professional. |
| Depakote | divalproex sodium |
Depakote is an anticonvulsant used to treat epilepsy. This medication affects the way that cells get signals to turn on and off in the nervous system. This medication can have serious side effects, especially in children. Depakote is usually prescribed to treat mania in people with manic-depressive disorder, to prevent seizures in people with epilepsy, and to prevent migraines. People with autism who also have seizures might be prescribed this medication. Anti-seizure medicines may not completely eliminate seizures but might reduce the number of seizures. Doses and blood levels of Depakote need to be watched closely by a doctor or other health care professional. |
| Dexedrine - Dexedrine Spansule | dextroamphetamine sulfate | Dexedrine is typically prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6-16 years of age and for narcolepsy (falling asleep). The sustained release, Spansule Sustained-Release Capsules, are not recommended for children less than 6 years old. It may also be prescribed off-label for hyperactivity in children with autism and for adults with ADHD. Dextroamphetamine sulfate is an amphetamine that stimulates the brain and nervous system. Caution: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse and may lead to drug dependence. Particular attention should be paid to the possibility that the amphetamines are being used or given to other people for non-therapeutic use. Also, misuse of amphetamines may cause sudden death and serious cardiovascular (heart-related) adverse events. |
| Diastat | diazepam | Diastat is a sedative in a rectal gel form. Diastat is administered to people who are having severe seizures as a short-term treatment. Diastat may be prescribed for people with autism who also have epilepsy, and would usually be administered during the seizure. |
| Diflucan | fluconazole | Diflucan is an anti-fungal antibiotic that is prescribed to treat fungus infections in any part of the body. Diflucan is often prescribed to treat fungal infections in people with weak immune systems. Diflucan may be prescribed off-label for children with autism to help relieve their autism symptoms, based on the idea that autism symptoms may be related to fungus infections in children. |
| Dilantin | phenytoin sodium | Dilantin is an antiepileptic drug that is indicated for helping to control seizures in children and adults. If a patient would like to stop Dilantin therapy then he or she should do so gradually under a doctor’s supervision in order to avoid seizures. |
| Endrate | edetate disodium |
Endrate is administered I.V., and recommended only for severe cases of metal poisoning because of the risk of serious side effects, including death. Endrate chelates or binds calcium and other trace elements such as magnesium and zinc. Endrate is usually prescribed for emergency treatment of hypercalcemia and for control of ventricular arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms associated with digitalis toxicity in adults. Endrate should not be used in children because of the risk of death, according to the FDA and the CDC. Endrate has been confused with Versenate (edentate calcium disodium), which is used to chelate lead in lead poisoning cases in children. Mistaken administration of Endrate has resulted in death in some children. Any chelation therapy in children should be administered under careful medical supervision. |
| Eskalith | lithium carbonate |
Eskalith (lithium carbonate): Eskalith® is an antidepressant that may be prescribed off-label for children with autism. Eskalith is usually used for treatment of mania in individuals with manic-depressive disorder. It works by altering sodium transport in nerve and muscle cells and increasing the break-down of some neurotransmitters. Eskalith CR® is a controlled-release tablet form of lithium. The safety and effectiveness of Eskalith in children with autism has not been proven but it may be helpful for some of them. |
| Fortamet - Glumetza | metformin hydrochloride | Fortamet or Glumetza (extended release tablet) is usually prescribed for treatment of type 2 diabetes in people over 17 years of age. Metformin works by decreasing liver glucose production, and increasing sensitivity to insulin in muscle and fat tissue. In people with autism, taking metformin with antipsychotic medications such as risperidone may help reduce weight gain that often occurs as a side effect of the antipsychotic medication. |
| Geodon | ziprasidone |
Geodon is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed for people with autism to help reduce hyperactivity, aggression, self-abusive behavior, temper tantrums, lability (mood swings), social withdrawal, and repetitive behaviors. Geodon is currently in clinical trials to test effectiveness in children with autism. Some children have improved with treatment. Geodon is indicated for schizophrenia, bipolar mania, and agitation in people with schizophrenia. Geodon works as a dopamine and serotonin type 2 antagonist, and has other effects on the nervous system. |
| Haldol | haloperidol |
Haldol is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed for some people with autism to help control aggression. Haldol is usually used to control tics and vocal utterances in Tourette’s syndrome and to treat schizophrenia. This medication decreases the neurotransmitter dopamine and may have other effects on the nervous system. Scientists do not yet fully understand how Haldol is able to reduce aggression in people with autism. Haldol can cause noticeable side effects including sleepiness and muscle stiffness. |
| Inderal | propranolol hydrochloride | Known as a beta-blocker, Inderal is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and other heart-related conditions. Inderal is also used to help prevent migraine headaches in adults and children. Inderal is being studied as a treatment for severe aggression in children with autism. Inderal LA is a long-acting form of Inderal. |
| Klonopin | clonazepam | Clonazepam is indicated for use to treat seizure disorders and panic disorder. It may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions. Klonopin is one of a group of drugs called the benzodiazepines; it works by correcting imbalances in brain chemistry which may cause anxiety. Clonazepam may be habit-forming. Patients should not stop taking the drug suddenly before consulting a physician because the drug dose may need to be lowered slowly over time. |
| Invega | paliperidone | Paliperidone is indicated for treatment of schizophrenia in adults. It may be prescribed off-label for children with autism. Invega belongs to a class of drugs called atypical antipsychotics. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, lightheadedness, restlessness, and weight gain. More serious side effects can occur, and close communication with the physician that prescribed the medication is advised. |
| Lamictal | lamotrigine | Lamictal is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer that may be prescribed off-label for people with autism to help reduce lethargy (tiredness), irritability, hyperactivity. It may also improve language, communication, and social skills. Lamictal is indicated for treatment of epilepsy to help control seizures, and for bipolar disorder to delay mood swings. Lamictal seems to change how neurons turn on and off, which affects the release of glutamate and aspartate, two amino acids that are important in neuron signaling. There is a low risk of serious rash which can lead to death, so people taking this medication need to be monitored closely by a medical professional. |
| Luvox | fluvoxamine maleate | Luvox is an antidepressant that may be prescribed off-label for people with autism to help decrease repetitive movements and improve social contacts. It is used to treat obsessions and compulsions in people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) who are at least 8 years old. This medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). One possible serious side effect of Luvox is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully against the clinical need for the drug. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Mycostatin |
nystatin | Oral medication is Nystatin; cream form is Mycostatin. Mycostatin and Nystatin are prescribed to treat fungal infections of the skin, mouth, vagina, and intestinal (digestive) tract. |
| Namenda | memantine hydrochloride |
Namenda is available as tablets or oral solution. It is indicated for treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s dementia. Namenda may be prescribed off-label for people with autism in an effort to help improve language, social behavior, and other behaviors. Namenda is a glutamate receptor antagonist (inhibits glutamate binding to its receptors). |
| Paxil | paroxetine | Paroxetine is an antidepressant that is a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems. Paxil® is prescribed for depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. It may also be prescribed for people with autism. One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Pepcid | famotidine | Pepcid is a type of histamine-2 blockers that decreases the amount of acid that the stomach produces. Pepcid® is used to treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It also treats other conditions in which the acid produced by the stomach is a problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. |
| Provigil | modafinil | Provigil promotes wakefulness. The FDA approved modafinil to treat narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, and shift work sleep disorder. Off-label, modafinil is used by sleep deprived people to stay awake and to treat fatigue, depression, multiple sclerosis and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The FDA rejected an application by the manufacturer to use modafinil as an ADHD drug due to the side effect of serious rashes. Modafinil is not approved for use in children under the age of 17. Side effects may include serious rash, chest pain, anxiety, stuffy nose, diarrhea, back pain, sleepiness and nausea or upset stomach. |
| Prozac | fluoxetine hydrochloride |
Prozac is an antidepressant that may be prescribed for people with autism to help decrease aggression and depression. It can also help reduce repetitive behaviors, and improve language and social interactions. In some individuals, Prozac can make these symptoms worse, so each individual must be monitored closely. Prozac® is indicated for depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder in children and adults. This medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Remeron | mirtazapine | Mirtazapine is an antidepressant that adjusts the balance of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. Remeron® belongs to a class of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants and is chemically different from serotonin reuptake inhibitors and MAOs. It is FDA-approved for use in treating major depression in adults. Mirtazapine may also be prescribed off-label for children with autism. Side-effects include abnormal dreams and thinking, constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, increased appetite, sleepiness, weakness, and weight gain. In clinical studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of mirtazapine or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Revia - Vivitrol |
naltrexone |
This medication may be prescribed for autistic children to help improve ability to socialize and make eye contact, and also to help reduce pain sensitivity, self-injury behaviors, and repetitive behaviors. Revia is indicated for people who are trying to stop an addiction to alcohol or opioids (e.g., morphine or heroin). This drug is an opioid antagonist, so it binds to opioid receptors and blocks the binding of alcohol or other drugs to the receptors, thus blocking the opiates from having an effect so the person will stop their addiction. Some children with autism have higher than normal levels of beta-endorphins in their nervous system, and naltrexone can lower beta-endorphin levels. An extended release injectable form is also available and is called Vivitrol. |
| Risperdal | risperidone | Available as tablets, oral solution, or orally-disintegrating tablets, this psychotropic medication is used to treat: 1) aggression, irritability, and severe behavior problems in autistic children 5-16 years old; 2) bipolar mania in individuals 10 years old and up; and 3) schizophrenia in adolescents and adults. Side effects might include weight gain, increased appetite, and sleepy or groggy feelings. Risperdal Consta, an injectable form of risperidone, is usually used to treat schizophrenia in adults. |
| Ritalin - Methylin |
methylphenidate hydrochloride | Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Methylin Oral, or Methylin are mild central nervous system stimulants that may be prescribed for people with autism to help reduce hyperactivity and repetitive movements. Methylphenidate is indicated for treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy (falling asleep at the wrong times). |
| Rozerem | ramelteon | Ramelteon is an oral medication (tablets) for treatment of insomnia (an inability to sleep well). Ramelteon stimulates melatonin receptors in the nervous system, thereby promoting sleepiness. Many children with autism have problems sleeping and ramelteon is currently being tested for effectiveness in children with autism. |
| Sarafem | fluoxetine hydrochloride | Sarafem is an antidepressant that may be prescribed for people with autism to help decrease aggression and depression. It can also help reduce repetitive behaviors, and improve language and social interactions. Sarafem is indicated for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a syndrome associated with menstruation in adult women. This medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Sporanox | itraconazole | Sporanox is prescribed to treat serious fungal infections which may invade any part of the body including mouth, throat, lungs, or nails. |
| Stablon - Coaxil - Tatinol |
tianeptine | Other trade names are Coaxil (Europe) and Tatinol (Asia and Latin America). Drug currently approved for use in France that is an antidepressant. Tianeptine is a serotonin reuptake enhancer. This mechanism of action differs from many antidepressants that are serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Tianeptine has also been used to treat asthma in children, erectile dysfunction in men, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). |
| Strattera | atomoxetine hydrochloride | Strattera may be prescribed off-label for people with autism to help with hyperactivity, obsessions, and other behavior problems. Strattera is usually prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Strattera works by changing the ways some neurons are turned on and off. One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Symbyax | fluoxetine hydrochloride and olanzapine | Medication containing a combination of fluoxetine and olanzapine. Symbyax is indicated for treatment of depression in bipolar disorder. Symbyax contains an antidepressant (fluoxetine) and an antipsychotic (olanzapine). Symbyax may be prescribed for people with autism to decrease anger, aggression, and repetitive movements; and to improve social interactions. |
| Tenex - Intuniv | guanfacine | Tenex or Intuniv (extended release form) stimulates certain receptors in the brain and nervous system. Guanfacine is indicated for lowering blood pressure and improving attention in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Guanfacine may also be prescribed off-label for sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, anti-social behaviors, oppositional disorder, and Tourette’s disorder. |
| Thorazine - Thorazine Spansule | chlorpromazine | Thorazine Spansule is the name for the sustained-release form. Chlorpromazine is available in tablet or injection form, and as suppositories. In children 1-12 years old, Thorazine may be prescribed for the treatment of severe behavioral problems such as combativeness and/or explosive hyperexcitable behavior. It is also prescribed for short-term treatment of hyperactive children who show excessive motor activity and conduct disorders that may include impulsivity, difficulty sustaining attention, aggressiveness, mood swings, and poor frustration tolerance. Thorazine is approved for the treatment of a number of other different conditions, including schizophrenia, severe nausea and vomiting, manic type of manic-depressive disorder. |
| Tofranil | imipramine hydrochloride | Tofranil is a tricyclic antidepressant that is usually prescribed for depression, and for childhood enuresis (bed-wetting). One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Topamax | topiramate | Topamax is an anticonvulsant that may be prescribed for people with autism to help reduce irritability and self-injuring behaviors. Topamax can also help reduce seizures. Topamax is indicated for reducing seizures in people with epilepsy for ages 2 years old and up; and also for preventing migraine headaches. Topamax is available as tablets and as sprinkle capsules that can be taken as a whole capsule or sprinkled on food. This medication may have a side effect of metabolic acidosis (the blood getting too acidic). People taking this medication need to be monitored closely by a medical professional and may require regular blood tests. |
| Trileptal | oxcarbazepine | This anti-seizure medication affects the way neurons are turned on and off. People with autism who also have seizures might be prescribed this medication. Anti-seizure medicines may not completely eliminate seizures but might reduce the number of seizures. Doses and blood levels of this medication often need to be watched closely by a doctor or other health care professional. |
| Valium - Diastat |
diazepam | Valium is a sedative that may be prescribed for people with autism to help reduce aggression and anxiety, or for seizures. It also comes as Valium Injection, or Diastat, a rectal gel form. The response to diazepam can vary between individuals with autism, so each individual should be monitored carefully. Diazepam is indicated for anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal, skeletal muscle spasms, and as supplemental medication for severe seizure disorders. |
| Versenate | edetate calcium disodium | Versenate chelates or strongly binds to divalent and trivalent metals including lead, zinc, cadmium, manganese, iron, and mercury. Versenate is usually prescribed for metal poisoning, particularly lead. Versenate may be used in children with autism to reduce heavy metals in their body in an effort to improve behaviors. While Versenate may be prescribed for children, serious side effects (including death) can occur as a result of Versenate therapy. Versenate has been confused with Endrate (edentate disodium), which is usually administered only to adults under emergency circumstances because of the risk of death. Endrate should not be used in children, according to the FDA and the CDC. Any chelation therapy in children should be administered under careful medical supervision. |
| Xanax | alprazolam | Alprazolam is one of a type of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by helping restore chemical balance in the brain when there are imbalances that may cause anxiety. Alprazolam is typically used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression. It may also be prescribed off-label for people with autism. Caution: alprazolam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Alprazolam should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. The medication should be kept in a secure place where others cannot get to it. |
| Zoloft | sertraline hydrochloride | Zoloft is an antidepressant that may be prescribed to help reduce anxiety and repetitive behaviors in people with autism. Zoloft is indicated for major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and social anxiety disorder. This medication is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). One possible serious side effect is increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. The risk of this side effect needs to be weighed carefully with the clinical need. Families should be aware of the need for close observation of the child or adolescent taking this medication, and maintain communication with the doctor who prescribed it. |
| Zyprexa | olanzapine |
Zyprexa is a psychotropic medication that may be prescribed off-label for people with autism to reduce disruptive and repetitive behaviors. Zyprexa® is indicated for treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (mania). Zyprexa Intramuscular is indicated for the treatment of agitation in people with schizophrenia and bipolar mania. Zyprexa works as a dopamine and serotonin type 2 antagonist, and has other effects on the nervous system. Side effects can include weight gain, increased appetite, and dry mouth. Other forms of this medication are called Zyprexa Zydis, or Zyprexa Intramuscular. |
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A new mania
Dec 22, 2008 by AnonymousWow, did Christmas ever sneak up on me this year! I thought I had a handle on things, but here it is, Christmas Eve-eve-eve, and Thomas turns six tomorrow. I should watch the old video of us opening presents with newborn Thomas nestled in the crook of his dad’s arm, looking around at the bright, decorated-for-Christmas world. I’ll not watch the video of me swollen to the size of a Dodge Caravan, limping to bathroom for the millionth time to check my staples. Despite my diligence, the incision became infected anyway and Thomas’ first few weeks at home were full of visitors – visiting nurses, that is.
The last week of school before Christmas break was so cold! School was cancelled on Friday which was a bummer for the kids in Thomas’ class; everyone missed out on their holiday parties. Thomas didn’t mind so much because he’s always apprehensive about anything out of the ordinary. I was especially disappointed that Hayley’s holiday sing would be cancelled, but I received an e-mail saying that it was rescheduled to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, so the whole family was able to go. Thomas had a really hard time sitting in the audience and being quiet, but nobody seemed to notice or care. After the kids finished singing, Santa Claus came in to hand out gifts to the preschool students. When it was Hayley’s turn, we asked if Thomas could talk to Santa too. Santa, as usual, was completely obliging, thereby saving us a hectic and stressful (and expensive, because they rob you for those pictures) trip to the mall on Sunday. Woo-hoo! I got a few pictures, none of them terrific, but it was good enough.
Thomas’ birthday party was on Saturday and up until the morning of, he was not into it. “I hate my birthday!” he was saying over and over. “There’ll be enough time for that when you’re a grown-up,” I answered. He understands that grown-ups don’t like getting older. Anyway, the morning of his party, he decided that he was excited and that he “loves his birthday.” Every time he says he hates something, I try to explain to him that he doesn’t really hate it, he just doesn’t know what to expect. He agrees with me on that. Now, the trick is to get him to say that he’s “a little worried” instead of “I hate it!”
Since tomorrow is his birthday, I was going to make him cupcakes or cake, whichever he preferred. He wants nothing. That’s what he said. Actually, I kind of think he’s just not a “cake person,” like me. I prefer fruit pies to cakes personally, but he wanted ice cream for dessert last night instead of leftover cake. Maybe we can make gingerbread men instead or something.
Santa has told me that he is indeed bringing Thomas the Lightning McQueen bicycle that he wants for Christmas. He’s also bringing the matching helmet and elbow pads, of course. I have already placed the old tricycles in the garage very quietly and nobody seemed to notice, so that’s really good. I’m just thinking about Thomas riding around the living room and dining room on Christmas morning, knocking things off shelves and the Christmas tree…bikes were always a popular Christmas present, but who can actually ride them in Chicago on Christmas Day? Which reminds me, Santa made the tires on the bike and didn’t put air in them…Mrs. Claus had better find the old bicycle pump in the garage.
So tomorrow is Thomas’ birthday, then we go to my mother-in-law’s on Christmas Eve for dinner and presents and then on Christmas, we’re going to my Uncle Bill’s house. Only thirty people are coming this year! It will be an intimate gathering for once, which will be good for Thomas. I think that some Christmases, there have been sixty or more people present which always seems more like Oktoberfest at the local fairgrounds than Christmas.
It has been so cold here that going outside with the kids – to play in the snow or just go for a walk – has been impossible. I can’t imagine another three months of this. It has to get better, right? Actually, I heard a meteorologist say that “they” expect December to be the coldest out of the winter months here in Chicago. Jonathan has been missing time at work not because of the bad economy but the rotten weather. I hate worrying about money and work right before the holidays, but it’s hard not to. We’re lucky he has a job at all. I’m still trying to find something I can do at home, but I’m discouraged by all of the scams out there.
Thomas has a “new mania,” like Mr. Toad in “The Wind in the Willows.” He loves playing with Jonathan’s PSP, which is a hand-held game console. We cannot get him to put this thing down. Like all of Thomas’ phases, we expect him to grow out of it, but it has been a real struggle trying to put time limits on this thing. I got it for Jonathan for Father’s Day a couple years ago, and it turns out that it was the worst decision I’ve ever made because when Thomas isn’t playing with it, Jonathan is. At any given moment, one of the men in my life is completely zoned out.
This will be my last post before Christmas, so I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and a prosperous New Year. I especially mean the prosperous part.
Raspberry vodka...surprise!
Aug 4, 2008 by dankohnThe tornado warning has expired, you will all be pleased to learn. We’ve been having very strong storms this evening. The air-raid sirens started up when the kids were in the bathtub and Hayley said, “Hey! It’s not Tuesday morning!” She used to have a tot class at the community center on Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. so she knows what air-raid sirens are.
It’s been so very long since I’ve managed to write. Even though nothing much happens in the summer, I get very lazy. Aunt Tiffy’s visit was a success and we were lucky enough to see her every day of her stay. My sister’s shower was also great and we got to see some of our family from the Quad Cities. After the shower, my Aunt Paula and Uncle Jeff invited the rest of our underage and male relatives who were not at the shower to come over for dinner. There were over sixty of us!
Aunt Tina’s wedding is rapidly approaching and I can see that we will be in trouble with Hayley when the time comes for her to marry. She ties my white dish cloths around her and says, “Mommy? Where’s my purse? I’m going to a sparkly wedding!” She tells me she’s going to marry her prince and she pretends to dance with this charming fellow in the living room. I guess some girls really do start dreaming about their weddings from the age of four. There’s been so much wedding talk lately that it was only a matter of time before Hayley started pretending about it. I tried my bridesmaid dress on for the kids and explained that Aunt Jackie and Aunt Tiffy would wear the same one as me. Hayley thought this sounded like great fun but Thomas couldn’t have cared less. Our kids really do follow gender stereotypes.
There’s more exciting news from Jonathan’s family…his brother’s wife is expecting their second child. I’ve actually known for a while since I was completely oblivious over Fourth of July weekend. I couldn’t understand why Christine didn’t want to share my special Raspberry Vodka Surprise! She seemed to enjoy it so much over Memorial Day! Duh. She had to spill the beans to me so I’d lay off and of course I had to tell Jonathan, but other than that I kept quiet. We just got the OK to tell the kids, so we’ve started talking about the baby in Aunt Christine’s tummy, and how it will get bigger and bigger and then the baby will be born. Thomas thinks it will be a boy and Hayley thinks it will be a girl. What a shocker. I’ve been showing them pictures of me when I was pregnant with them and Thomas seems to think that this whole idea is very interesting. I showed him a picture of me at my cousin’s wedding in Denver when I was about six months along and he said, “That’s pretty cool!” He smiled and seemed to understand. The only thing I’m terrified of is the kids asking anyone with a slightly protuberant tummy if they’ve got a baby in there. I’m sitting here just thinking about it and I’ve started sweating. Other than that, this will be fun for Thomas and Hayley to observe because they were both a little oblivious when Christine was pregnant with her first baby. They’ll be more involved and excited this time, I think.
We saw Thomas’ neurologist just over one week ago. The visit went really well, actually. Other than the kid’s behavior, which turned into WWE Smackdown as soon as the doctor entered the exam room, everything went great. I asked her to prescribe something for some of Thomas’ ADHD behaviors which she did. She prescribed Focalin and it is doing absolutely nothing for Thomas. I’m to call her in a couple weeks and let her know how it’s going, but I may end up calling her before that to let her know that this medicine and/or dosage is not working. I’m sure she’ll suggest we increase the dosage but only after the Anti-Depressant Police come and collect any extra Focalin we have and search the house for hidey-holes where we might be stockpiling other anti-depressants. The restrictions on how these medications are prescribed and dispensed is really staggering. For one thing, the doctor’s office will only prescribe one month’s worth of medicine at a time. We have to call every few weeks for a refill. Then, the pharmacist wanted my driver’s license number and told me that they will not fill a prescription for these meds that is more than seven days old. None of these things are terribly inconvenient and I know why these restrictions are in place but I’m used to picking up very innocent medications. We’ll see how things go once she increases the dose.
We’ve been swimming a lot lately, mostly because my uncle’s house is on the way to the mechanic. The car wouldn’t start on our way home from the pharmacy after Thomas’ doctor appointment and we didn’t really figure out why. After the car had been towed to the mechanic, he couldn’t get it not to start so there was no way for him to diagnose any trouble. Hmpf. We decided to put our money on (literally) the fuel pump since these particular pumps usually crap out after 70,000 miles and ours has been going for over 170,000. Borrowed time for sure. So I’ve been staying close to home. Getting the car towed from Uncle Tom’s would cost a lot less than getting it towed from the zoo. Plus, someone would likely be home at Uncle Tom’s to give us a lift. I’m a weenie, I know. My mom is a big freaker-outer about car troubles and I’ve inherited this from her. Every little noise, every little creak or crack or whiz or bang from under the hood and I’m gripping the arm rest and asking Jonathan if he heard it. He’s getting tired of my mania and he never hears these noises anyway. I figure it’s not as serious as hearing voices in my head.