US Pharm. 2007;32(12):47-58.
Presently, there is no drug on
the market with an FDA-approved indication to treat specifically autistic
disorder (AD).1 Nonpharmacologic therapies are always first-line
treatment; however, in severe cases, medication may be required to treat
aggressive behavior toward oneself or others. AD is a complex disease with
neurologic and psychological components. Many patients have related
conditions, such as epilepsy, that must be treated with drug therapy. For
optimal pharmacologic therapy, agents must be selected that target behaviors
affecting the safety of the patient and the caregiver. Selected agents also
must be safe and appropriate for the patient
Published December 20, 2007