Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Autism Disorder

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Autism Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives and socializes with others, causing challenges in social interaction and communication.

Insight:

• Some children show signs of autism spectrum disorder in early infancy, such as reduced eye contact, lack of response to their name, or indifference to caregivers.
• Other children may develop normally for the first few months or years of life, but then suddenly become withdrawn or aggressive, or lose language skills they've already acquired. Signs usually are seen by 2 years of age.
• The disorder can be caused by genetics or environmental factors.
• Risk factors include the sex of the child, family history, preterm birth, and patient age.
• Treatment options may include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclics, antipsychotics, stimulants, anti-anxiety medications, and anticonvulsants.
• Sources:
• Autism spectrum disorder - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
• Medication Treatment for Autism | NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (nih.gov)