The relationship between symptoms of autism spectrum disorders and psychotropic medication use in infants and toddlers

Little research has been conducted to date on the relationship between psychotropic medication use and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Participants in the current study were placed into one of four groups: ASD on psychotropic medications (N = 33), ASD off psychotropic medications (N = 45), atypically developing on psychotropic medications (N = 30) and atypically developing off psychotropic medications (N = 45). Severity of autistic symptoms were compared between the groups based on total scores on the Baby and Infant Screen for Children with aUtIsm Traits, Part 1(BISCUIT Part-1). Toddlers with ASD on psychotropic medications had significantly higher ratings than any other group. No such relationship was found within the atypically developing group. The results suggest a relationship between psychotropic medication use and severity of autistic symptoms in infants and toddlers. Implications of these results are discussed.

► Psychotrophic drugs are often given to people with autism.
► Severity of symptoms effects whether drugs are or are not prescribed.
► Psychotrophic drugs do not effect core symptoms of autism.