Abstract
This paper presents a systematic review, rating and synthesis of the empirical evidence for the use of psychotropic medications
in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Thirty-three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in peer-reviewed
journals qualified for inclusion and were coded and analyzed using a systematic evaluative method specific to autism research
(Reichow et al. in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders 38:1311–1319, 2008). Results are presented by agent and primary target symptom(s). The findings suggest established evidence for relatively
few agents, with preliminary and promising evidence for a larger group. Challenges and opportunities in the developing field
of ASD psychopharmacology are identified, and recommendations for further research are provided.
in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Thirty-three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in peer-reviewed
journals qualified for inclusion and were coded and analyzed using a systematic evaluative method specific to autism research
(Reichow et al. in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders 38:1311–1319, 2008). Results are presented by agent and primary target symptom(s). The findings suggest established evidence for relatively
few agents, with preliminary and promising evidence for a larger group. Challenges and opportunities in the developing field
of ASD psychopharmacology are identified, and recommendations for further research are provided.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-14
- DOI 10.1007/s10803-011-1399-2
- Authors
- Matthew Siegel, Spring Harbor Hospital, Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, 123 Andover Road, Westbrook, ME 04092, USA
- Amy A. Beaulieu, Muskie School of Public Service, University of Southern Maine, 45 Commerce Drive, Suite 11, Augusta, ME 04330, USA
- Journal Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
- Online ISSN 1573-3432
- Print ISSN 0162-3257