A developmental disorder, autism causes children with the disorder to have social, behavioral and language-based symptoms. While treatment options are available for these symptoms, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that medications are used to treat co-occurring symptoms and conditions. Examples include anxiety, tantrums, aggression, sleep disorders, attention problems, outbursts, mood swings, compulsions, irritability, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) adds that many of the medications used for autism are prescribed off-label, as risperidone is the only drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for autism.
Drugs for Hyperactivity and Inattention
Some children with autism may also display symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate, a type of stimulant drug for ADHD, is also prescribed to autism patients; the medication decreases hyperactivity, impulsiveness and attention problems.
Drugs for Mood Changes
Because mood changes, like irritability, anxiety and mood swings, can be present in autistic children, an antidepressant may be prescribed. The NIMH notes that fluoxetine, a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is approved for both depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), where the patient has intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and ritualistic behaviors (compulsions). Fluoxetine is approved by the FDA for use starting at age 7, while other medications for OCD symptoms are approved for later use; for example, fluvoxamine is approved for age 8 and older, and clomipramine for age 10 and older. Sertraline, on the other hand, can be started at age 6. If autistic children are given antidepressants for mood changes, they need to be monitored closely: The FDA warns that these medications can increase suicidal thoughts in children.
Drugs for Other Behavioral Symptoms
For behavioral symptoms that are additional to autism, like tantrums and aggression, an antipsychotic can be prescribed. Antipsychotics act on the levels of dopamine in the brain, which can lead to calmer behavior. Risperidone is a FDA approved antipsychotic for autism patients; haloperidol, thioridazine, fluphenazine and chlorpromazine are also antipsychotics that have been given to autistic children for behavioral problems, though these are considered an off-label use because the FDA has not approved these medications for autism treatment.
