Aripiprazole

Plain-English summary

A 24-year-old woman with autism and a sleep disorder called narcolepsy developed involuntary muscle movements (dyskinesia) after taking modafinil, a medication used to help with daytime sleepiness. She had previously taken another medication called aripiprazole for autism symptoms. The doctors believe the combination of having autism, previous medication use, and modafinil may have caused these movement problems. This is the first reported case of this side effect in someone with autism.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

Plain-English summary

This review discusses aripiprazole, a medication approved by the FDA for treating irritability in autistic children and teens. The authors note that aripiprazole can help with various symptoms while having fewer side effects than some other medications - it typically doesn't cause significant weight gain or movement problems. The medication is included in official treatment guidelines for autism and is commonly prescribed because it addresses multiple symptom areas while being generally well-tolerated by young people.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

Plain-English summary

This study compared two medications (risperidone and aripiprazole) for reducing irritability and challenging behaviours in 72 autistic children aged 6-18. Both medications worked equally well at reducing irritability, improving sleep, and helping with other behaviours. Side effects were similar for both medications, but risperidone increased prolactin hormone levels while aripiprazole decreased them. Parents can discuss with doctors that both medications appear to be equally effective options.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

Plain-English summary

This review looks at current autism treatments and research gaps. While there are no medications specifically for autism's main symptoms (communication, social skills, repetitive behaviors), doctors can prescribe medications for related issues like aggression, ADHD, and sleep problems. The authors stress that better diagnostic tests and personalized treatments are urgently needed to help children with autism more effectively.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

Plain-English summary

This report describes a rare condition called Capgras syndrome in a teenager with autism. Capgras syndrome makes people believe their family members have been replaced by identical strangers. This had never been reported in someone with autism before. The teenager was treated successfully with a medication called aripiprazole, though higher doses were needed than usual. The treatment worked well without serious side effects.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.

Plain-English summary

This year-long study followed 58 Asian children and teens (ages 6-17) with autism who took aripiprazole medication. The results showed continued improvements in challenging behaviors, daily living skills, and reduced family stress. Most children tolerated the medication well, though about 6 in 10 experienced some side effects. The most common side effects were common cold symptoms and weight gain. Three serious events happened but weren't caused by the medication.

Summary by AutismInsights from published abstract.