Medication

There are no medications specifically developed to treat Autism. However, several medications used for other conditions that might occur with Autism may help with certain symptoms. Before taking any medication, speak with your physician about your child’s symptoms.

Medications used to help manage the symptoms of Autism fall into several categories:

• Antipsychotics. Some newer antipsychotic medications may help with aggression, self-harm, and behavioral problems in both children and adults with Autism.
• Antidepressants. While many people with Autism take antidepressants, scientists are not sure if they actually help with Autism symptoms. Still, they may be useful for treating OCD, depression, and anxiety.
• Stimulants. Stimulants, generally used to treat ADHD, may also help with overlapping Autism symptoms, including inattention and hyperactivity.
• Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonists. In the context of mental health, these medications, particularly guanfacine and clonidine, are sometimes prescribed off-label for conditions like ADHD. Although they are not the first-line treatment for these conditions, their ability to modulate certain aspects of brain function is well-noted by Autism professionals.
• Anticonvulsants. Some people with Autism also have epilepsy, requiring prescribed anti-seizure medications (Osborn, 2020).