Abstract
Background: Although a significant amount of literature regarding use of aripiprazole (APZ) in autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs) has benne published, APZ is not approved for use in autism or ASDs in countries other than the United States. Even in the United States, approved use of APZ is limited to the patients with autism in children and adolescents. This review and case reports focus on the available evidence and clinical experience regarding the use of APZ in patients with ASDs including adults Methods: A literature review was conducted, using the PubMed search term ‘aripiprazole’and(‘autistic spectrum disorder’, ‘pervasive developmental disorders’ or ‘Asperger’s disorder’). Results: In previous reports, APZ can target symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggression, and irritability. Compared with other antipsychotics, APZ also causes fewer adverse events that can lead to drug discontinuation. The case reports supported the literature review: APZ has moderate sedative, antidepressant, and antianxiety effects, when used to treat ASDs. None of the patients experienced adverse reactions (e.g., extrapyramidal symptoms,weight gain, and sedation). Conclusion: APZ reduces aggression in ASDs and improves qualitative deficits in interpersonal interactions and motivation. APZ also causes fewer adverse events. APZ may be associated with favorable treatment compliance,and may improve treatment of ASDs.
Highlights
Treatment for autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs) or pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs), a wide spectrum of disorders including autism and Asperger’s disorder, includes therapeutic education regarding each symptom, arranging the home and classroom environment, and pharmacotherapy
APZ is indicated in the United States for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, and has been recently approved to treat irritability associated with autistic disorder, in children and adolescents (5-16 years of age)
Chavez et al [11] reviewed the literature and suggested that PDD is likely a heterogeneous disorder, with a multifactorial etiology. They discussed the possible relationship between serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine and the observed clinical response to atypical antipsychotic treatment for autism, and argued that the observed efficacy of atypical antipsychotics may be related to their ability to affect more than one neurotransmitter system
Summary
APZ can target symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggression, and irritability. APZ causes fewer adverse events that can lead to drug discontinuation. The case reports supported the literature review: APZ has moderate sedative, antidepressant, and antianxiety effects, when used to treat ASDs. None of the patients experienced adverse reactions (e.g., extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, and sedation)
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