Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Prescription Medicine
Common names are:
- Citalopram
- Clomipramine
- Escitalopram
- Fluoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Sertraline
These medicines are used to improve mood. They can also help with problems like aggression or meltdowns.
Clomipramine treats obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which shares features with ASD.
Problems may be:
- Dry mouth
- Lightheadedness
- Sleepiness
- Heart rhythm problems
- Methylphenidate
This medicine is used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It also may help those with ASD who struggle with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
Problems may be:
- Risk of abuse or addiction
- Seizures
- Worsening mental health problems
References
Autism. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Autism/Pages/default.aspx. Accessed May 16, 2022.
Autism spectrum disorder. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd. Accessed May 16, 2022.
Autism spectrum disorders. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/autism-spectrum-disorders. Accessed May 16, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Kari Kuenn, MD
- Review Date: 11/2021
- Update Date: 05/16/2022