What are the Conventional Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders?
Antipsychotic drugs: Some atypical antipsychotics are used to treat irritability and behavioral problems, such as aggression, self-injury, and rapid mood swings. Risperdone (RisperdalTM) which was approved by the FDA in 2006 for irritability (aggression, self-injury, temper tantrums, and rapid mood changes) in individuals with ASD, is the best studied. Recent studies suggest Risperidone may be associated with improved overall functioning and social responsiveness; however, it has associated side effects of weight-gain and adverse metabolic effects (increasing the potential risk of high cholesterol or diabetes). Alpha-adrenergic agonists: Limited (and often very small) studies of Clonidine and Guanfacine report improvements in behaviors such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, stereotypies, self-stimulation, inappropriate speech, irritability, aggression, and oppositional behavior as a frequent side-effect in individuals with ASD. Mood Stabilizers: These drugs (such as Divalproex sodium (Val
