Antipsychotic May Control Autism Disorder

A British study suggests risperidone, a drug used to control schizophrenic symptoms, might help treat problems found in autism spectrum disorder.

The researchers reviewed three randomized, placebo-controlled studies of risperidone (Risperdal) involving 211 participants, including 31 adults.

(We found) risperidone may be beneficial for various aspects of autism, including irritability, repetition and hyperactivity, said Dr. Ora Jesner of the University of Bristol, the study’s leader. However, Jesner noted, the drug’s benefits might be offset by its side effects, among which weight gain is most prominent.

Often diagnosed within the first three years of life, autism spectrum disorder leads to difficulties with social relationships, language and communication skills. Symptoms include withdrawal from social interactions, irritability, problems communicating and repetitive behaviors.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says as many as 1.5 million people in the United States might have some form of the disorder.

The review by Jesner and co-author Mehrnoosh Aref-Adib appears in the latest issue of The Cochrane Library.