Aggression in Autism
One of the common symptoms of autism is agressive behavior. Aggression in autism can take many forms, from self-harm behavior to violence towards inanimate objects and other people. Often, individuals with autism will display a few consistent aggressive behaviors which are very resistant to behavioral modification. Aggressive autistic patients can require constant supervision to prevent injury to themselves and others.
Traditionally, aggression in autism has posed a very difficult problem for families, caretakers and facilities dealing with autistic individuals. However in recent years an anti-psychotic medication approved for use in schizophrenia has shown great promise in reducing aggression in autistic individuals.
In 2002, a study was published in the "New England Journal of Medicine" showing spectacular results using Risperdal (Risperidone) to minimize aggression in autistic patients. 82 autistic boys and 19 autistic girls between the ages of 5 to 17 were studied. They were randomly assigned either Risperdal or a placebo. At the end of 8 weeks, 69% of the Risperdal group were either "much" to "very much" improved, compared to just 12% of the placebo group.
Although Risperdal is not officially approved for treatment of aggression in autism, it can be prescribed "off label" by an autistic patient's physician. If other therapies have not been effective in reducing aggression in your autistic child, patient or loved one, Risperdal may offer a promising avenue for improvement.