ERIC Number: EJ892601
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2010-Jul
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0161-1461
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Pharmacotherapy and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Tutorial for Speech-Language Pathologists
Self, Trisha L.; Hale, LaDonna S.; Crumrine, Daiquirie
Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools, v41 n3 p367-375 Jul 2010
Purpose: The purpose of this tutorial is to provide speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with general information regarding the most commonly prescribed medications for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD; e.g., central nervous system stimulants, noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors, alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, benzodiazepines) in regard to their mechanism of action, behaviors treated, and potential side effects. Method: This clinical resource was compiled to support SLPs who need to understand the functions and effects of medications that have been prescribed to a child with ASD to whom they have or will be providing assessment and intervention services. Conclusions: SLPs play an important role in the education, assessment, and treatment of children with ASD. Although there is no definitive cure for ASD, up to 70% of children with ASD are prescribed psychoactive medications to ameliorate disruptive behaviors associated with ASD such as hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, aggression, irritability, self-injury, obsessive compulsiveness, anxiety, and mood disorders. The entire health care team, including SLPs, should be involved in monitoring children with ASD for efficacy, tolerability, and potential side effects when medications are prescribed.
Descriptors: Intervention, Autism, Speech Language Pathology, Anatomy, Drug Therapy, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Metabolism, Symptoms (Individual Disorders), Behavior Problems, Behavior Modification, Self Destructive Behavior, Aggression, Hyperactivity, Attention Deficit Disorders, Antisocial Behavior, Teamwork
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). 10801 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852. Tel: 800-638-8255; Fax: 301-571-0457; e-mail: subscribe@asha.org; Web site: http://lshss.asha.org/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A