 | | | | Related Healthscout Videos | |
|
(Ivanhoe Newswire) Following results of a new study, researchers question the efficacy of the antidepressant, citalopram, for the treatment of repetitive behaviors in children with autism.
Citalopram is in a class of antidepressants know as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), designed to interfere with the way the brain regulates serotonin.
Text Continues Below
"Despite the relative dearth of evidence supporting their use, SSRIs are among the most frequently used medications for children with autism, partially because of their perceived safety," the study authors write.
However, new research shows citalopram was associated with adverse events, including increased energy level, impulsiveness, decreased concentration, hyperactivity, diarrhea, insomnia and stereotypy, the mechanical repetition of the same posture or movement.
"There is growing recognition that children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders have serious behavioral problems and psychiatric symptoms that may be appropriate targets for pharmacotherapy," the authors write. "The results of this trial indicate that citalopram is not an effective treatment for children having autism spectrum disorders with moderate or greater repetitive behavior."
SOURCE: The Archives of General Psychiatry, 2009;66[6]:583-590
If this story or any other Ivanhoe story has impacted your life or prompted you or someone you know to seek or change treatments, please let us know by contacting Melissa Medalie at mmedalie@ivanhoe.com
This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.
|
.gif)
