Psychopharmacology of Autism

Abstract: 

Hon Ho, MD MPH
Instructor in Psychiatry
Harvard Medical School
McLean Hospital;
MassGeneral for Children at
North Shore Medical Center

ACMES Biomedical Advances of Autism
8/18/2013

Conflict of Interest: None

Objectives:
1. Review the DSM V criteria of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
2. Discuss the use of medications to treat comorbidities of autism.

Medications can treat some comorbidities of autism. Children with autism may have more trouble tolerating some medications, e.g. methylphenidate, SSRI’s, benzodiazepam. Risperidone and aripiprazole are FDA approved to treat irritability in children with autism. Risperidone and aripiprazole may be considered to treat severe, disabling repetitive behavior. Methylphenidate may be used cautiously to treat ADHD-like symptoms. Melatonin treats insomnia with good results.

  1. A Whole Body Approach to Brain Health
  2. Acupuncture for Autism: A Promising Therapy
  3. Autism and Moral Development: What can the Sandy Hook School shooting teach us?
  4. Autism Pyramid - What Causes Autism?
  5. Gut and Brain Connection: A New Look
  6. Healing Autism through NAET
  7. Important Biomarkers in Autism
  8. Life-Long Buddy Project
  9. Pharmacological Management of Behavioral Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorders
  10. Potential Treatment of Autism with Traditional Chinese Medicine
  11. Psychopharmacology of Autism
  12. Stress and Mental Flexibility in Autistic Spectrum Disorders