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How to Choose Autism Drugs

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Autism is a developmental disability that affects social and communication skills of the individual. Drugs can't cure autism, but you can use a variety of drugs to help alleviate the symptoms. It takes looking at all the shown symptoms to help determine which drugs work for an individual.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Consult your doctor to discuss the severity of the autism. Discuss all treatment options thoroughly with your doctor before you make any decisions about autism drugs.

  2. Step 2

    Ask your doctor to check serotonin levels. Researchers have found that some people with autism have higher levels of serotonin. You can reduce the symptoms of higher levels of serotonin, such as repetitive behaviors, irritability and aggressive behavior, with drugs such as Lenox, Prozac or Anafranil.

  3. Step 3

    Treat seizures as part of your overall autism treatment plan with anticonvulsants like Depakote, Lamictal and Topamax. Nearly one in four people with autism also have seizures, which can make autism symptoms worse.

  4. Step 4

    Look into using vitamins instead or in addition to other drugs when choosing autism drugs. Autism symptoms can be more severe when you have nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption issues. Research has shown that increasing your intake of vitamin C can help alleviate symptoms, while vitamin B and magnesium help correct behavioral problems, increase eye contact and increase your ability to pay attention.

Tips & Warnings
  • Drugs that are used to treat other disorders are also used for autism patients. Discuss all symptoms of autism in order for your doctor to help you choose the correct autism drugs.
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