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.
We also know that some people in the United States (and other countries) may not have the health insurance and resources to pay for drugs within their domestic healthcare system. Consequently, we have partnered with CanadaPharmacy.com, which offers up to 80% off on prescription and non-prescription drugs. By purchasing through Healing Thresholds, you additionally receive 10% off on your first order. Purchase of a prescribed drug requires a prescription from 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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Please comment on this autism topic.
Responding to Thorazine (chlorpromazine)
Aug 13, 2010 by PWSMomIn 2006 the FDA approved risperidone for the specific treatment of aggression and irritability in people (inc children) with autism, yet you have posted an expert opinion also from 2006 that anti-psychotics are not useful in treating autism. Please review your information. Risperidone is an anti-psychotic and has been found to be effective in treating patients with autism who are easily agitated and frequently aggressive. While I can not speak specifically to Thorazine, the professional opinion used to back up the information is outdated and no longer correct.
Comment added from Healing Thresholds: Note that rarely is scientific consensus achieved in one year. Moreover, scientific consensus rarely occurs as the result of a regulatory decision (FDA approval). At Healing Thresholds we summarize medical research as it occurs and we provide the date of the medical research/medical opinion. We inlude both mainstream and alternative views as long as those studies/opinons have been subjected to the scientific peer review process. We encourage all readers to consider the date of the research/opinion (and the source of the research/opinion) when evaluating how the results relate to their own child's therapy program.
The long and winding road
Jul 4, 2009 by AnonymousConor is the name of my beautiful green-eyed boy who last year was formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. We had been told by a teacher at his daycare that she felt he needed to be evaluated. We took him to our local school district and they agreed that he had "developmental delays." It wasn't until January of last year that his speech therapist actually uttered the word "autism" in assocation with Conor and that was the most devastating word we had probably evere heard. However, whatever we started to read about autism didn't seem to fit him completely. Conor is a very affectionate, articulate and happy little boy. There didn't seem to be any books out there to describe him in the context of having autism. That seems to be changing but it's still quite lacking. I guess I'll have to write my own book!
Nevertheless, as it turns out, loving a child with autism is not the worst thing in the world. We have been enormously blessed with the school Conor attends, where he has been for two years now. He is attending summer school now to keep up the work and not have it disrupted. He only has two more weeks left at this school and then will move to his new elementary school for kindergarten. We are trying to prepare him as best we can. We have set up meetings with his new teacher and drive by the school whenever we have an opportunity. His new school has the same cross-categorical program that his current school has so while he'll have a whole new teacher, school and routine to adjust to, he'll at least have the same program. In the morning, he'll have one-on-one work for his IEP and then in the afternoon, he'll attend regular kindergarten witih his peer group and have an assistant who will shadow him and another cross-cat student. I am excited to have him start this new school with all the possibilities it will provide. He'll be in a class with children his own age, whereas now, he's in with some kids who are a little younger than he is, whom he often imitates (i.e., screaming, hitting himself, making baby noises, etc.). His teachers are confident that he'll outgrow this tendency to imitate, which will come with maturity. We can ask him, "Hey, who are you imitating now?" and he'll respond, "Justin, Payton, Jacob, etc." So he knows he's doing it and knows it's not an entirely desirable behavior. His teachers have commented that this is upsetting to the child he's imitating so we work diligently to overcome that behavior.
Conor has come a remarkably long way and his teachers agree. There are many things he can now do that he wasn't able to do before. Academically, he's right on track, but socially, not so much. He has a hard time making friends. We hope that he will develop better skills in kindergarten to make connections with friends and learn the appropriate ways to interact with friends. Sharing is a big hurdle!
Conor has an 18-month old sister and that has been an interesting journey. When we first brought her home from the hospital, he didn't want us to get her out of the car! He has had to learn what is appropriate behavior with her and how to be gentle. It's very disconcerting when he laughs inappropriately when she cries in distress. However, if I cry, he shows immense concern and empathy. It's pretty remarkable to witness. I think as he and his baby sister get closer and closer as they grow up together, his connection to her will be more compassionate.
Conor has been a study subject to research the low-dose effects of Risperdal in ASD children. Having him participate in this study was a very arduous and painful decision. His participation ends next month and we're not entirely sure how much it has helped him or affected his behavior positively. In fact, there seems to be an emphasis on some undesirable behaviors and we're not sure if it's environmental or biological. Who knows? All of this is such a crap shoot... everyone just wants a definitive explanation about how to heal/treat/cure autism. Lord knows I sure do! But as I have said, this I can handle. It's certainly a challenge but it's not insurmountable. My child is healthy and happy... we can work together to get him where he needs to be.
Risperdal
Feb 23, 2007 by AnonymousIn October 2006, the FDA approved the use of Risperdal (risperidone) for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder. This means that it can be used to treat aggression towards self and towards others, temper tantrums, and rapidly changing moods. This is the first drug approved for children (aged 5-16) with autism.