Autism Treatments

There is currently no cure for autism; there is also no treatment that is best for every child. Typically treatment is tailored to the child's needs and symptoms. Intensive, sustained special education programs and behavioral therapies early in life can help children acquire, social, job, and self-care skills. The huge range of treatments and interventions can be overwhelming. Your autism doctor or specialist should be able to help identify resources in one's area that may work for the child. Some of these treatment options may include drug therapies, behavioral and communication therapies, and complementary approaches.

There are currently no medications that can directly improve on the signs of autism. Medications may help control the symptoms of autism. Many children diagnosed with autism are prescribed psychoactive drugs with the classes being antidepressants, stimulants, and antipsychotics. The antipsychotic risperidone has been approved in the United States for treating autistic children and adolescents with irritability. Other drugs are prescribed as off-label, which means they have not been approved for treating autism. A person with autism may not respond well to medications, the medications can also have adverse side effects. Again no known medication has been shown to relieve autism's core symptoms of social and communication impairments.

Numerous programs have been made to focus on the range of social, language, and behavioral difficulties associated with autism. There is one-on-one teaching of tasks that uses the principles of stimulus, response, and reward. Some programs focus on structuring a physical environment then using visual supports to help with language development tasks. Some parents choose to supplement their child's treatment with complementary therapies. Interactive approaches like art and music are used. Special diets, vitamin, mineral supplementation, and sensory integration have shown promise. There has been no scientific proof that any of these therapies work but also would probably not be harmful. It is extremely important to talk with your child's doctor before trying any treatment.

If treatment is begun early enough the child may learn how to cope with the disorder.