Risperidone in the treatment of behavioral disorders associated with autism in children and adolescents

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Authors: Roberto Canitano, Valeria Scandurra

Published Date September 2008 , Volume 2008:4(4) Pages 723 - 730 DOI 10.2147/NDT.S1450

Roberto Canitano, Valeria Scandurra

Division of Child Neuropsychiatry, University Hospital of Siena, Siena, Italy

Abstract: This is a review of the clinical trials investigating the efficacy and safety of risperidone in the treatment of children with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). The main clinical characteristics are impairment in social skills, communication difficulties, repetitive movements and behaviors, including stereotypies. Pharmacotherapy is mainly directed at the so-called target symptoms, ie, behavioral disorders and the various kinds of repetitions associated with ASD. According to the available data, risperidone seems to be moderately efficacious and safe for treating behavioral disorders. 4 double blind controlled trial. 3 reanalysis studies, and 12 open studies have documented the role of risperidone in children with ASD. Controlled studies have been thoroughly considered in this review.

Keywords: autism, pervasive developmental disorders, risperidone