Psychopharmacology of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are at high risk for co-occurring psychiatric and behavioral disorders. Risperidone and aripiprazole are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of irritable mood-associated problems (eg, aggression, self-injury, tantrums, and mood lability) in youth with ASD. Several other medications have been used as adjuncts to risperidone, with some evidence for reduction in irritability and hyperactivity. To date, there are no medications that have been consistently effective in treating the core social and communication deficits seen in people with ASD. There are, however, two investigational drugs that have shown promise in that regard, and they are, or will soon be, in phase III trials. This article presents a brief overview of current and potential psychopharmacologic agents used in the treatment of psychiatric comorbidities in people with ASD. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2019;49(3):120–124.]