Research summaries for autism therapy: Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride)

definition of 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.
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Retrial of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders: A Retrospective Chart Review, Summarized May 6, 2009

SSRI drug therapy may not be helpful for children with autism.

Many youths with autism do not respond well to SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) drug therapy (paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline, etc.). This study reports on the outcome of youths with autism who received a second round of SSRI therapy after treatment failure on a first SSRI. Only one third of children who received a second round of SSRI therapy had a good response to the second SSRI therapy. This response rate was low and was lower than has been shown in other studies. The authors also found that side effects were common on the SSRI therapy. Read more...

Should Tactile Sensation Impairment be Considered in Pharmacotherapy of Pervasive Developmental Disorder? A Case Report, Summarized Mar 11, 2009

Sertraline may help in the treatment of tactile defensiveness in people with autism.

People with autism often have trouble processing sensory input. Sertraline is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant that is also known to help with pain and itching. This case report describes a woman with Aspergerâ??s syndrome who was given sertraline drug therapy and could better accept the feel of rough textures. Right after starting sertraline therapy, the woman was better able to wear scratchy clothes. The author suggests that further research be done to see if sertraline is a good option for the treatment of people with this sensory pattern. Read more...

The Neuropathology, Medical Management, and Dental Implications of Autism, Summarized Nov 23, 2006

Parents should communicate to dentists any drugs that have been prescribed to the child as the drugs may have orofacial side effects and/or may interact with any drugs prescribed by the dentist.

For example, risperidone and olanzapine may cause problems with speech, swallowing, and the use of retainers. Fluoxetine and sertraline may cause diarrhea, nausea, and possibly changes in the speed at which blood clots. In addition, fluoxetine and sertraline may interact with other drugs prescribed by the dentist including codeine, erythromycin, and clarithromycin. Carbamazepine and valproate may also have a negative effect on the ability of blood to clot. Clonidine may magnify the effects of any pain killers used during a dental procedure or in recovery from a procedure.
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Synonyms for Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) include: sertraline, sertraline hydrochloride, Zoloft, Zoloft®
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