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O'Brien MJ, Pauls AM, Cates AM, Larson PD, Zorn AN. Psychotropic Medication Use and Polypharmacy Among Children and Adolescents Initiating Intensive Behavioral Therapy for Severe Challenging Behavior. J Pediatr 2024; 271:114056. [PMID: 38615943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence, trends, and factors associated with psychotropic medication use and polypharmacy among children and adolescents initiating intensive behavioral therapy for severe challenging behavior over a 10-year period. STUDY DESIGN In this retrospective observational study, we examined data from caregiver interviews and patient medical records on the number and types of psychotropic medications prescribed to patients initiating intensive behavioral therapy between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2022. Trends in medication use and polypharmacy across the 10-year period were analyzed using regression analysis, while differences in demographics and clinical factors for patients with use and polypharmacy were analyzed using nonparametric statistical analysis with odds ratios presented for significant factors. RESULTS Data from all 302 pediatric patients initiating intensive behavioral therapy across the 10-year period were analyzed. Among all patients and all years, 83.8% were taking at least 1 psychotropic medication and 68.2% experienced polypharmacy. There were no changes in the prevalence of use, mean number of medications taken, or polypharmacy across the 10-year period. Patients diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or anxiety disorder, as well as those exhibiting self-injurious behavior had higher use of psychotropic medication and polypharmacy and were taking more medications overall. CONCLUSIONS Psychotropic medication use and polypharmacy were extremely high for children and adolescents with severe challenging behavior, but use and polypharmacy did not change over the 10-year period of data collection. Further research is needed to establish the generality of these findings to other regions of the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J O'Brien
- The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA; The University of Iowa Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Iowa City, IA.
| | | | | | - Priya D Larson
- The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA; The University of Iowa Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Iowa City, IA
| | - Alithea N Zorn
- The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA; Center for Public Health Statistics, Iowa City, IA; College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA
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Mayes SD, Pardej SK, Waschbusch DA. Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Autism and ADHD. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06437-9. [PMID: 39066970 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06437-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Our study compared oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) in children with autism to ADHD-Combined presentation and ADHD-Inattentive presentation. Mothers of 2,400 children 3-17 years old with autism and/or ADHD completed the Pediatric Behavior Scale. ADHD-Combined was most strongly associated with ODD, with an ODD prevalence of 53% in children with ADHD-Combined only. When autism was added to ADHD-Combined, prevalence increased to 62% and the ODD score increased significantly. Autism+ADHD-Inattentive, Autism Only, and ADHD-Inattentive Only had ODD prevalences of 28%, 24% and 14%. In each diagnostic group, ODD had the same two factors (irritable/angry and oppositional/defiant); demographic differences between children with and without ODD were few; and correlations between ODD and conduct problems were large, correlations with depression were medium, and correlations with anxiety were small. However, ODD scores differed significantly between groups (Autism+ADHD-Combined > ADHD-Combined Only > Autism+ADHD-Inattentive and Autism Only > ADHD-Inattentive Only). The irritable/angry ODD component was greater in Autism+ADHD-Combined than in ADHD-Combined Only, whereas the oppositional/defiant component did not differ between the two groups. Autism was a significant independent risk factor for ODD, particularly the irritable/angry ODD component, but ADHD-Combined was the strongest risk factor. Therefore, the high co-occurrence of ADHD-Combined in autism (80% in our study) largely explains the high prevalence of ODD in autism. ADHD-Combined, autism, and ODD are highly comorbid (55-90%). Clinicians should assess all three disorders in referred children and provide evidence-based interventions to improve current functioning and outcomes for children with these disorders and reduce family and caretaker stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan D Mayes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Dr., Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
| | - Sara K Pardej
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Dr., Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Daniel A Waschbusch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State College of Medicine, 500 University Dr., Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
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Evans SC, Karlovich AR, Khurana S, Edelman A, Buza B, Riddle W, López-Sosa D. Evidence Base Update on the Assessment of Irritability, Anger, and Aggression in Youth. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2024; 53:277-308. [PMID: 38275270 PMCID: PMC11042996 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2023.2292041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Irritability, anger, and aggression have garnered significant attention from youth mental health researchers and clinicians; however, fundamental challenges of conceptualization and measurement persist. This article reviews the evidence base for assessing these transdiagnostic constructs in children and adolescents. METHOD We conducted a preregistered systematic review of the evidence behind instruments used to measure irritability, anger, aggression, and related problems in youth. Searches were conducted in PsycINFO and PubMed, identifying 4,664 unique articles. Eligibility criteria focused on self- and proxy-report measures with peer-reviewed psychometric evidence from studies in English with youths ages 3-18. Additional measures were found through ancillary search strategies (e.g. book chapters, review articles, test publishers). Measures were screened and coded by multiple raters with acceptable reliability. RESULTS Overall, 68 instruments met criteria for inclusion, with scales covering irritability (n = 15), anger (n = 19), aggression (n = 45), and/or general overt externalizing problems (n = 27). Regarding overall psychometric support, 6 measures (8.8%) were classified as Excellent, 46 (67.6%) were Good, and 16 (23.5%) were Adequate. Descriptive information (e.g. informants, scales, availability, translations) and psychometric properties (e.g. reliability, validity, norms) are summarized. CONCLUSIONS Numerous instruments for youth irritability, anger, and aggression exist with varying degrees of empirical support for specific applications. Although some measures were especially strong, none had uniformly excellent properties across all dimensions, signaling the need for further research in particular areas. Findings promote conceptual clarity while also producing a well-characterized toolkit for researchers and clinicians addressing transdiagnostic problems affecting youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer C. Evans
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | | | - Sakshi Khurana
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- College of Education, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Audrey Edelman
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bianca Buza
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - William Riddle
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Denise López-Sosa
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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Frazier TW, Khaliq I, Scullin K, Uljarevic M, Shih A, Karpur A. Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Open-Source Challenging Behavior Scale (OS-CBS). J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:4655-4670. [PMID: 36112303 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05750-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
At present, there are no brief, freely-available, informant-report measures that evaluate key challenging behaviors relevant to youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental disabilities (DD). This paper describes the development, refinement, and initial psychometric evaluation of a new 18-item measure, the Open-Source Challenging Behavior Scale (OS-CBS). In a large sample (n = 2004, 169 with ASD, ages 2-17), results of psychometric analyses indicated a clear factor structure (property destruction, aggression, elopement, conduct problems, and self-injury and a general factor with high loadings from all items) based on exploratory structural equation modeling, good scale reliability (α = .66-.83 for subscales, α = .91 total scale), measurement invariance across demographics, and good construct validity. The OS-CBS is a psychometrically-sound instrument for screening and monitoring intervention progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Frazier
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA.
| | - Izma Khaliq
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA
| | - Keeley Scullin
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, 1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH, 44118, USA
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Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Children with Disruptive Behaviors and Autism: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Autism Dev Disord 2023; 53:390-404. [PMID: 35076832 PMCID: PMC9889513 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05428-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A relatively large number of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit disruptive behavioral problems. While accumulating data have shown behavioral parent training programs to be efficacious in reducing disruptive behaviors for this population, there is a dearth of literature examining the impact of such programs across the range of ASD severity. To evaluate the effectiveness of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based treatment for children with problem behaviors and their families, in reducing disruptive behaviors among children (4-10 years) with ASD (without intellectual disabilities). Fifty-five children (85.5% male, 7.15 years; SD 1.72) were enrolled from pediatric offices and educational settings into a randomized clinical trial (PCIT: N = 30; Control: N = 25). PCIT families demonstrated a significant reduction in child disruptive behaviors, increase in positive parent-child communication, improvement in child compliance, and reduction in parental stress compared to the control group. Exploratory analyses revealed no differential treatment response based on ASD severity, receptive language, and age. Results are promising for the use of PCIT with children demonstrating disruptive behaviors across the autism spectrum.
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Frazier TW, Crowley E, Shih A, Vasudevan V, Karpur A, Uljarevic M, Cai RY. Associations between executive functioning, challenging behavior, and quality of life in children and adolescents with and without neurodevelopmental conditions. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1022700. [PMID: 36337537 PMCID: PMC9632446 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1022700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study sought to clarify the impact of executive and social functioning on challenging behavior and the downstream influence of challenging behavior on quality of life and functioning in a large transdiagnostic sample. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing and designing tailored intervention strategies. In a cross-sectional study, parent informants of 2,004 children completed measures of executive and social functioning, challenging behavior, child and family quality of life, and reported on functional impacts of challenging behavior. Using structural (path) modeling, analyses evaluated the associations between executive and social functioning, including emotion regulation and risk avoidance, with overall and specific types of challenging behavior. Structural models also examined the influence of challenging behavior on child and family quality of life, including measures of the immediate and extended environment, and functional impacts on the parent/child as well as interactions with the medical/legal systems. Finally, mediational models explored the direct and indirect effects of executive and social functioning on quality of life and impact measures via challenging behavior. Results indicated that executive functioning accounts for substantial variance (R2 = 0.47) in challenging behavior. In turn, challenging behavior accounts for substantial variance in child and family quality of life (R2 = 0.36) and parent/child impacts (R2 = 0.31). Exploratory mediational models identified direct effects from executive and social functioning measures on quality of life and functional impacts and indirect effects for executive functioning via challenging behavior. These findings support the development of new intervention strategies and suggest the need to measure executive functioning when assessing and tailoring the treatment of challenging behavior in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W. Frazier
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, University Heights, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Thomas W. Frazier,
| | - Ethan Crowley
- Department of Psychology, John Carroll University, University Heights, OH, United States
| | - Andy Shih
- Science and Public Health Department, Autism Speaks, New York, NY, United States
| | - Vijay Vasudevan
- Science and Public Health Department, Autism Speaks, New York, NY, United States
| | - Arun Karpur
- Science and Public Health Department, Autism Speaks, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mirko Uljarevic
- The School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ru Ying Cai
- Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice, French’s Forest, NSW, Australia
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Torelli JN, Lloyd BP, Pollack MS. A Systematic Review of Direct Assessments to Evaluate Psychotropic Medication Effects for Children With Disabilities. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 127:103-124. [PMID: 35180780 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-127.2.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate effects of psychotropic medication for children with disabilities, direct assessments may offer a valuable supplement to caregiver reports. Relative to indirect assessment, direct measures of behavior can increase objectivity and sensitivity, and some have potential to isolate distinct behavioral and learning processes. We conducted a systematic, narrative literature review to identify and describe the types and qualities of direct assessment methods that have been used to evaluate effects of non-stimulant psychotropic medication for children with disabilities. We identified 50 studies and 78 direct assessments, which we organized and described using seven assessment categories. Only one study met all three direct assessment quality indicators. We use our descriptive results to highlight research trends and gaps that warrant further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica N Torelli
- Jessica N. Torelli, Blair P. Lloyd, and Marney S. Pollack, Peabody College at Vanderbilt University
| | - Blair P Lloyd
- Jessica N. Torelli, Blair P. Lloyd, and Marney S. Pollack, Peabody College at Vanderbilt University
| | - Marney S Pollack
- Jessica N. Torelli, Blair P. Lloyd, and Marney S. Pollack, Peabody College at Vanderbilt University
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Popow C, Ohmann S, Plener P. Practitioner's review: medication for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and comorbid conditions. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT OSTERREICHISCHER NERVENARZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2021; 35:113-134. [PMID: 34160787 PMCID: PMC8429404 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-021-00395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Alleviating the multiple problems of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its comorbid conditions presents major challenges for the affected children, parents, and therapists. Because of a complex psychopathology, structured therapy and parent training are not always sufficient, especially for those patients with intellectual disability (ID) and multiple comorbidities. Moreover, structured therapy is not available for a large number of patients, and pharmacological support is often needed, especially in those children with additional attention deficit/hyperactivity and oppositional defiant, conduct, and sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Popow
- Dept. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18–20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Susanne Ohmann
- Dept. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18–20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Plener
- Dept. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18–20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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London EB, Yoo JH. From Research to Practice: Toward the Examination of Combined Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1073. [PMID: 34439691 PMCID: PMC8391105 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11081073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of biological (i.e., medications) in conjunction with applied behavior analysis is relatively common among people with ASD, yet research examining its benefit is scarce. This paper provides a brief overview of the existing literature on the combined interventions, including promising developments, and examines the existing barriers that hinder research in this area, including the heavy reliance on RCTs. Recommendations for possible solutions, including the creation of health homes, are provided in order to move toward a more integrated approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Bart London
- Department of Psychology, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road Staten Island, New York, NY 10314, USA;
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Lord C, Bishop SL. Let's Be Clear That "Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms" Are Not Always Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. Am J Psychiatry 2021; 178:680-682. [PMID: 34383567 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2021.21060578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Lord
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (Lord); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (Bishop)
| | - Somer L Bishop
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (Lord); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco (Bishop)
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Wiggins LD, Nadler C, Rosenberg S, Moody E, Reyes N, Reynolds A, Alexander A, Daniels J, Thomas K, Giarelli E, Levy SE. Many Young Children with Autism Who Use Psychotropic Medication Do Not Receive Behavior Therapy: A Multisite Case-Control Study. J Pediatr 2021; 232:264-271. [PMID: 33493493 PMCID: PMC8174527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how many pre-school aged children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) used psychotropic medication, child and geographic factors associated with psychotropic medication use, and how many children who used psychotropic medication did or did not ever receive behavior therapy. STUDY DESIGN Children 2-5 years of age were enrolled from 2012 to 2016 in a multisite case-control study designed to investigate the development and risk factors of ASD. Children with a positive ASD screen or ASD diagnosis upon enrollment were asked to complete a comprehensive evaluation to determine ASD status and developmental level. Caregivers completed a Services and Treatments Questionnaire and multiple self-administered questionnaires to determine child use of psychotropic medication, ever receipt of behavior therapy, and presence of co-occurring symptoms. RESULTS There were 763 children who were classified as ASD and had data collected on the Services and Treatments Questionnaire. Of those, 62 (8.1%) used psychotropic medication to treat behavioral symptoms and 28 (3.7%) were ≤3 years of age when medication was first started. Attention problems (aOR, 7.65; 95% CI, 3.41-16.1; P < .001) and study site (aOR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.04-6.56; P = .04) were significantly associated with psychotropic medication use after controlling for maternal race/ethnicity. More than one-half (59.7%) of those who used psychotropic medication did not ever receive behavior therapy. CONCLUSIONS Many preschool-aged children with ASD who use psychotropic medication do not receive behavior therapy. Pediatricians are an important resource for children and families and can help facilitate behavioral treatment for children with ASD and other disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D Wiggins
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA.
| | - Cy Nadler
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Kansas City, MO
| | - Steven Rosenberg
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Eric Moody
- Institute for Disabilities, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY
| | - Nuri Reyes
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Ann Reynolds
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Aimee Alexander
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Julie Daniels
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Kathleen Thomas
- Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Ellen Giarelli
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Susan E Levy
- Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
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Guinchat V, Vlamynck E, Diaz L, Chambon C, Pouzenc J, Cravero C, Baeza-Velasco C, Hamonet C, Xavier J, Cohen D. Compressive Garments in Individuals with Autism and Severe Proprioceptive Dysfunction: A Retrospective Exploratory Case Series. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7070077. [PMID: 32668622 PMCID: PMC7401870 DOI: 10.3390/children7070077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Compression garments (CGs) are an adjuvant treatment for generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), including the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome/hypermobility types. The effects of CGs are likely to be related to better proprioceptive control. We aimed to explore the use of CGs in individuals with autism and severe proprioceptive dysfunction (SPD), including individuals with GJH, to control posture and challenging behaviors. (2) Methods: We retrospectively described 14 patients with autism and SPD, including seven with comorbid GJH, who were hospitalized for major challenging behaviors with remaining behavioral symptomatology after the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, including medication, treatment of organic comorbidities, and behavioral restructuring. Each patient received a CG to wear for at least 1 h (but most often longer) per day for six weeks. We assessed challenging behaviors in these participants with the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), sensory integration with the Dunn questionnaire, and postural sway and motor performance using a self-designed motricity path at baseline, two weeks, and six weeks. (3) Results: We observed a significant effect on most ABC rating scores at two weeks, which persisted at six weeks (total score, p = 0.004; irritability, p = 0.007; hyperactivity, p = 0.001; lethargy, p = 0.001). Postural control in dorsal and profile positions was significantly improved between before and after wearing the CGs (p = 0.006 and 0.007, respectively). Motor performance was also significantly improved. However, we did not observe a significant change in Dunn sensory scores. During the six-week duration, the treatment was generally well-tolerated. A comorbid GJH diagnosis was not associated with a better outcome. (4) Conclusions: CGs appear to be a promising adjuvant treatment for both behavioral and postural impairments in individuals with autism and SPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Guinchat
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
- Psychiatric Section of Mental Development, Psychiatric University Clinic, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Prilly, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Lautaro Diaz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
- Psychiatric Section of Mental Development, Psychiatric University Clinic, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Prilly, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Coralie Chambon
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
| | - Justine Pouzenc
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
| | - Cora Cravero
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
- Interdepartmental Mobile Unit for Complex Situations in Autism, Elan Retrouvé Foundation, 75009 Paris, France
| | - Carolina Baeza-Velasco
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Health Processes (EA 4057), Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt, France;
- INSERM U1061, Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, CHU de Montpellier, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Claude Hamonet
- Department of Physical Reeducation, University Paris-Est Créteil, 94000 Créteil, France;
| | - Jean Xavier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Henri Laborit Hospital Centre, 86000 Poitiers, France
- CNRS UMR 7295, Cognitive Learning Research Centre, Poitiers University, 86073 Poitiers, France
| | - David Cohen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Reference Centre for Rare Psychiatric Diseases, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France; (V.G.); (L.D.); (C.C.); (J.P.); (C.C.); (J.X.)
- CNRS UMR 7222, Institute for Intelligent Systems and Robotics, Sorbonne Université, 75006 Paris, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-(0)1-4216-2351
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Guinchat V, Cravero C, Lefèvre-Utile J, Cohen D. Multidisciplinary treatment plan for challenging behaviors in neurodevelopmental disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 174:301-321. [PMID: 32977887 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64148-9.00022-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Among symptoms that patients with neurodevelopmental disorders can exhibit, challenging behaviors (CBs) are some of the more complex to face, both for caregivers and the patients themselves. They are more frequent in individuals with severe autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability, and during the transition period from late childhood to young adulthood. Here, we offer an overview of the therapeutic approaches proven worthy in managing CB. Topics include nonpharmacologic treatments (such as behavioral and family interventions), drug prescriptions, and specific intensive care for life-threatening situations, including inpatient stay in specialized neurobehavioral units. Then, we focus on rare, complex, and resistant clinical presentations, mainly based on the authors' clinical experience. We propose a multimodal intervention framework for these complex presentations, embracing developmental and dimensional approaches. A case presentation illustrates the proposed framework, with the aim of serving readers and health practitioners that are facing such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Guinchat
- Psychiatric Section of Mental Development, Psychiatric University Clinic, Lausanne University Hospital, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Cora Cravero
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, APHP.Sorbonne Université, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Jean Lefèvre-Utile
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, APHP.Sorbonne Université, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - David Cohen
- Service de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, APHP.Sorbonne Université, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France; Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et Robotiques, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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Goodwin MS, Mazefsky CA, Ioannidis S, Erdogmus D, Siegel M. Predicting aggression to others in youth with autism using a wearable biosensor. Autism Res 2019; 12:1286-1296. [PMID: 31225952 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Unpredictable and potentially dangerous aggressive behavior by youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can isolate them from foundational educational, social, and familial activities, thereby markedly exacerbating morbidity and costs associated with ASD. This study investigates whether preceding physiological and motion data measured by a wrist-worn biosensor can predict aggression to others by youth with ASD. We recorded peripheral physiological (cardiovascular and electrodermal activity) and motion (accelerometry) signals from a biosensor worn by 20 youth with ASD (ages 6-17 years, 75% male, 85% minimally verbal) during 69 independent naturalistic observation sessions with concurrent behavioral coding in a specialized inpatient psychiatry unit. We developed prediction models based on ridge-regularized logistic regression. Our results suggest that aggression to others can be predicted 1 min before it occurs using 3 min of prior biosensor data with an average area under the curve of 0.71 for a global model and 0.84 for person-dependent models. The biosensor was well tolerated, we obtained useable data in all cases, and no users withdrew from the study. Relatively high predictive accuracy was achieved using antecedent physiological and motion data. Larger trials are needed to further establish an ideal ratio of measurement density to predictive accuracy and reliability. These findings lay the groundwork for the future development of precursor behavior analysis and just-in-time adaptive intervention systems to prevent or mitigate the emergence, occurrence, and impact of aggression in ASD. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1286-1296. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: Unpredictable aggression can create a barrier to accessing community, therapeutic, medical, and educational services. The present study evaluated whether data from a wearable biosensor can be used to predict aggression to others by youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Results demonstrate that aggression to others can be predicted 1 min before it occurs with high accuracy, laying the groundwork for the future development of preemptive behavioral interventions and just-in-time adaptive intervention systems to prevent or mitigate the emergence, occurrence, and impact of aggression to others in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Goodwin
- Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Carla A Mazefsky
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Stratis Ioannidis
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deniz Erdogmus
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew Siegel
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Portland, Maine
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Delion P, Labreuche J, Deplanque D, Cohen D, Duhamel A, Lallié C, Ravary M, Goeb JL, Medjkane F, Xavier J. Therapeutic body wraps (TBW) for treatment of severe injurious behaviour in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): A 3-month randomized controlled feasibility study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198726. [PMID: 29958284 PMCID: PMC6025870 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The use of therapeutic body wraps (TBW) has been reported in small series or case reports, but has become controversial. Objectives This is a feasibility, multicentre, randomized, controlled, open-label trial with blinded outcome assessment (PROBE design). Setting Children with autism and severe-injurious behaviours (SIB) were enrolled from 13 specialized clinics. Interventions Dry-sheet TBW (DRY group) vs. wet-sheet TBW (WET group). Primary outcome measures 3-month change in the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist irritability score (ABC-irritability) within per-protocol (PP) sample. Results From January 2008 to January 2015, we recruited 48 children (age range: 5.9 to 9.9 years, 78.1% male). Seven patients (4 in the DRY group, 3 in the WET group) were dropped from the study early and were excluded from PP analysis. At endpoint, ABC-irritability significantly improved in both groups (means (standard deviation) = -11.15 (8.05) in the DRY group and -10.57 (9.29) in the WET group), as did the other ABC scores and the Children Autism Rating scale score. However, there was no significant difference between groups. All but 5 patients were rated as much or very much improved. A repeated-measures analysis confirmed the significant improvement in ABC-irritability scores according to time (p < .0001), with no significant difference between the two groups (group effect: p = .55; interaction time x group: p = .27). Pooling both groups together, the mean 3-month change from baseline in ABC-irritability score was -10.90 (effect size = 1.59, p < .0001). Conclusions We found that feasibility was overall satisfactory with a slow recruitment rate and a rather good attrition rate. TBW was a safe complementary therapy in this population. There was no difference between wet and dry TBW at 3 months, and ABC-irritability significantly decreased with both wet and dry sheet TBW. To assess whether TBW may constitute an alternative to medication or behavioural intervention for treating SIB in ASD patients, a larger randomized comparative trial (e.g. TBW vs. antipsychotics) is warranted. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03164746.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Delion
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Julien Labreuche
- Université de Lille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Equipe d’Accueil A2694—Santé publique: épidémiologie et qualité des soins, Lille, France
| | - Dominique Deplanque
- Université de Lille, Inserm, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, CIC1403—Centre d'investigation clinique, Lille, France
| | - David Cohen
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, APHP, Paris, France
- CNRS UMR 7222 Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et Robotiques, Université Pierre & Marie Curie, Paris, France
| | - Alain Duhamel
- Université de Lille, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Equipe d’Accueil A2694—Santé publique: épidémiologie et qualité des soins, Lille, France
| | - Céline Lallié
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Maud Ravary
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Jean-Louis Goeb
- Pôle 59i03, Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Etablissement Public de Santé Mentale Lille-Métropole, Armentières, France
| | - François Medjkane
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Jean Xavier
- Département de Psychiatrie de l’Enfant et de l’Adolescent, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, APHP, Paris, France
- CNRS UMR 7222 Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et Robotiques, Université Pierre & Marie Curie, Paris, France
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Medical Conditions and Demographic, Service and Clinical Factors Associated with Atypical Antipsychotic Medication Use Among Children with An Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:1391-1402. [PMID: 28210827 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to describe rates of antipsychotic medication use and the association between their use and demographics, clinical variables, and the use of behavioral/education services among children with ASD. For children with ASD ages 2-11 (n = 4749) and those 12-17 (n = 401), 5.4 and 17.7% were prescribed at least one atypical antipsychotic medication respectively. In the multivariable model of young children, older age, use of multiple psychotropic medications, prior ASD diagnosis, non-white Hispanic race/ethnicity, and oppositional defiant problems were associated with antipsychotic use. Among older children, only older age was associated with antipsychotic use. In at least one age group, antipsychotic medication use was also related to behaviour, family and occupational therapy, public insurance, site region, externalizing problems, body mass index, and sleep and gastrointestinal problems.
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Kamp-Becker I, Poustka L. [Between Hype and Hope – considerations for research in autism spectrum disorders]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2017; 45:175-179. [PMID: 28523973 DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Inge Kamp-Becker
- 1 Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg
| | - Luise Poustka
- 2 Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universität Göttingen.,3 Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Medizinische Universität Wien
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Masi A, Lampit A, DeMayo MM, Glozier N, Hickie IB, Guastella AJ. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of pharmacological and dietary supplement interventions in paediatric autism: moderators of treatment response and recommendations for future research. Psychol Med 2017; 47:1323-1334. [PMID: 28091344 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291716003457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are pervasive and multifactorial neurodevelopmental conditions, characterized by impairments in social communication and interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. Treatment options to ameliorate symptoms of ASDs are limited. Heterogeneity complicates the quest for personalized medicine in this population. Our aim was to investigate if there are baseline characteristics of patients that moderate response or trial design features that impede the identification of efficacious interventions for ASDs. METHOD Literature searches of EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO identified 43 studies for qualitative assessment of baseline characterization of participants and 37 studies for quantitative analysis of moderators of treatment response. Criteria included blinded randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in paediatric ASD, with at least 10 participants per arm or 20 overall, of oral treatments, including pharmacological interventions and dietary supplements. RESULTS Random-effects meta-analysis of 1997 participants (81% male) identified three moderators associated with an increase in treatment response: trials located in Europe and the Middle-East; outcome measures designated primary status; and the type of outcome measure. Inconsistent reporting of baseline symptom severity and intellectual functioning prevented analysis of these variables. Qualitative synthesis of baseline characteristics identified at least 31 variables, with only age and gender reported in all trials. Biological markers were included in six RCTs. CONCLUSIONS Few trials reported adequate baseline characteristics to permit detailed analysis of response to treatment. Consideration of geographical location, baseline severity and intellectual function is required to ensure generalizability of results. The use of biological markers and correlates in ASD trials remains in its infancy. There is great need to improve the application of baseline characterization and incorporation of biological markers and correlates to permit selection of participants into homogeneous subgroups and to inform response to treatment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Masi
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research,Brain and Mind Centre,Central Clinical School,Sydney Medical School,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
| | - A Lampit
- Regenerative Neuroscience Group,Brain and Mind Centre,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
| | - M M DeMayo
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research,Brain and Mind Centre,Central Clinical School,Sydney Medical School,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
| | - N Glozier
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research,Brain and Mind Centre,Central Clinical School,Sydney Medical School,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
| | - I B Hickie
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research,Brain and Mind Centre,Central Clinical School,Sydney Medical School,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
| | - A J Guastella
- Autism Clinic for Translational Research,Brain and Mind Centre,Central Clinical School,Sydney Medical School,University of Sydney,Camperdown,NSW,Australia
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Traitements médicamenteux reçus par les enfants, adolescents et jeunes adultes avec trouble du spectre autistique en France : un état des lieux basé sur l’expérience parentale. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurenf.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Fung LK, Mahajan R, Nozzolillo A, Bernal P, Krasner A, Jo B, Coury D, Whitaker A, Veenstra-Vanderweele J, Hardan AY. Pharmacologic Treatment of Severe Irritability and Problem Behaviors in Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Pediatrics 2016; 137 Suppl 2:S124-35. [PMID: 26908468 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-2851k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasingly recognized as a public health issue. Irritability and aggression (IA) often negatively affect the lives of people with ASD and their families. Although many medications have been tested for IA in ASDs in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), critical quantitative analyses of these trials are lacking in the literature. OBJECTIVES To systematically review and quantitatively analyze the efficacy and safety of pharmacologic treatments for IA in youth with ASD. DATA SOURCES Studies were identified from Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, and review articles. METHODS Original articles on placebo-controlled RCTs of pharmacologic treatments of IA in youth age 2 to 17 years with ASD were included. Data items included study design, study goals, details of study participants, details of intervention, study results, statistical methods, side effects, and risks of bias. The primary study outcome measure was the effect size of reduction in the Aberrant Behavioral Checklist-Irritability (ABC-I) scores in the medication group, as compared with placebo, in RCTs using parallel groups design. RESULTS Forty-six RCTs were identified. Compared with placebo, 3 compounds resulted in significant improvement in ABC-I at the end of treatment. Risperidone and aripiprazole were found to be the most effective, with the largest effect sizes. Sedation, extrapyramidal sides effects, and weight gain were assessed quantitatively. CONCLUSIONS Although risperidone and aripiprazole have the strongest evidence in reducing ABC-I in youth with ASD, a few other compounds also showed significant efficacy with fewer potential side effects and adverse reactions in single studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence K Fung
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Rajneesh Mahajan
- Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Alixandra Nozzolillo
- Center for Child & Adolescent Health Research and Policy, MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Pilar Bernal
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California, San Jose, California
| | - Aaron Krasner
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York; and
| | - Booil Jo
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Daniel Coury
- Department of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Agnes Whitaker
- New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York; and
| | | | - Antonio Y Hardan
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California;
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Cox AD, Virues-Ortega J. Interactions between behavior function and psychotropic medication. J Appl Behav Anal 2015; 49:85-104. [DOI: 10.1002/jaba.247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Guinchat V, Cravero C, Diaz L, Périsse D, Xavier J, Amiet C, Gourfinkel-An I, Bodeau N, Wachtel L, Cohen D, Consoli A. Acute behavioral crises in psychiatric inpatients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): recognition of concomitant medical or non-ASD psychiatric conditions predicts enhanced improvement. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 38:242-255. [PMID: 25575287 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2014.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Revised: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
During adolescence, some individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) engage in severe challenging behaviors, such as aggression, self-injury, disruption, agitation and tantrums. We aimed to assess risk factors associated with very acute behavioral crises in adolescents with ASD admitted to a dedicated neurobehavioral unit. We included retrospectively in 2008 and 2009 29 adolescents and young adults with ASD hospitalized for severe challenging behaviors and proposed a guideline (Perisse et al., 2010) that we applied prospectively for 29 patients recruited for the same indications between 2010 and 2012. In total, 58 patients were admitted (n=70 hospitalizations, mean age=15.66 (±4.07) years, 76% male). We systematically collected data describing socio-demographic characteristics, clinical variables (severity, presence of language, cognitive level), comorbid organic conditions, etiologic diagnosis of the episode, and treatments. We explored predictors of Global Assessment Functioning Scale (GAFS) score and duration of hospitalization at discharge. All but 2 patients exhibited severe autistic symptoms and intellectual disability (ID), and two-thirds had no functional verbal language. During the inpatient stay (mean=84.3 (±94.9) days), patients doubled on average their GAFS scores (mean=17.66 (±9.05) at admission vs. mean=31.4 (±9.48) at discharge). Most common etiologies for acute behavioral crises were organic causes [n=20 (28%), including epilepsy: n=10 (14%) and painful medical conditions: n=10 (14%)], environmental causes [n=17 (25%) including lack of treatment: n=11 (16%) and adjustment disorder: n=6 (9%)], and non-ASD psychiatric condition [n=33 (48%) including catatonia: n=5 (7%), major depressive episode: n=6 (9%), bipolar disorder: n=4 (6%), schizophrenia: n=6 (9%), other/unknown diagnosis: n=12 (17%)]. We found no influence of age, gender, socio-economic status, migration, level of ID, or history of seizure on improvement of GAFS score at discharge. Severity of autism at admission was the only negative predictor (p<.001). Painful medical conditions (p=.04), non-ASD psychiatric diagnoses (p=.001), prior usage of specialized ASD care programs (p=.004), functional language (p=.007), as well as a higher number of challenging behaviors upon admission (p=.001) were associated with higher GAFS scores at discharge. Clinical severity at admission, based on the number of challenging behaviors (r=.35, p=.003) and GAFS score (r=-.32, p=.008) was correlated with a longer inpatient stay. Longer hospitalization was however correlated (r=.27, p=.03) with higher GAFS score at discharge even after adjustment for confounding factors. Challenging behaviors among adolescents with ASD may stem from diverse risk factors, including environmental problems, comorbid acute psychiatric conditions, or somatic illness such as epilepsy or acute pain. The management of these behavioral challenges requires a unified, multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Guinchat
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Cora Cravero
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Lautaro Diaz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Didier Périsse
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Jean Xavier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Claire Amiet
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Gourfinkel-An
- Center of Epileptology, Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies and Department of Genetics, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Bodeau
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Lee Wachtel
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 707 North Broadway Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - David Cohen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France; Institut des Systèmes Intelligents et Robotiques, CNRS UMR 7222, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 1 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Angèle Consoli
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 47 bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France; INSERM U669, Maison de Solenn, 97 bd de Port Royal, 75014 Paris, France
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Lake JK, Weiss JA, Dergal J, Lunsky Y. Child, parent, and service predictors of psychotropic polypharmacy among adolescents and young adults with an autism spectrum disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2014; 24:486-93. [PMID: 25329798 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2014.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the child, parent, and service factors associated with polypharmacy in adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). METHODS As part of an online survey examining health service utilization patterns among individuals with ASD, parents provided demographic and clinical information pertaining to their child. This included information on current medication use, as well as information on clinical services received, clinical history, and parent well-being. Analyses examined the bivariate association between individual child, parent, and service variables and polypharmacy. Variables significantly associated with polypharmacy were included in a multiple variable logistic regression. RESULTS Of the 363 participants sampled, ∼25% were receiving two or more psychotropic drugs concurrently. The patient's psychiatric comorbidity, history of hurting others, therapy use, and parent burden were predictors of polypharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents and young adults with ASD are a highly medicated population with multiple factors associated with psychotropic polypharmacy. Although there may be circumstances in which polypharmacy is necessary, a richer understanding of what predicts polypharmacy may lead to targeted interventions to better support these individuals and their families. Findings also highlight the need to support families of children with ASD prescribed multiple psychotropic medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna K Lake
- 1 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health , Dual Diagnosis Service, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
On the basis of the most recent epidemiologic research, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1% to 2% of all children. (1)(2) On the basis of some research evidence and consensus, the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers isa helpful tool to screen for autism in children between ages 16 and 30 months. (11) The Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, changes to a 2-symptom category from a 3-symptom category in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition(DSM-5): deficits in social communication and social interaction are combined with repetitive and restrictive behaviors, and more criteria are required per category. The DSM-5 subsumes all the previous diagnoses of autism (classic autism, Asperger syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified) into just ASDs. On the basis of moderate to strong evidence, the use of applied behavioral analysis and intensive behavioral programs has a beneficial effect on language and the core deficits of children with autism. (16) Currently, minimal or no evidence is available to endorse most complementary and alternative medicine therapies used by parents, such as dietary changes (gluten free), vitamins, chelation, and hyperbaric oxygen. (16) On the basis of consensus and some studies, pediatric clinicians should improve their capacity to provide children with ASD a medical home that is accessible and provides family-centered, continuous, comprehensive and coordinated, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care. (20)
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Harrington
- General Academic Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Department of Pediatrics, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA
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Mire SS, Nowell KP, Kubiszyn T, Goin-Kochel RP. Psychotropic medication use among children with autism spectrum disorders within the Simons Simplex Collection: are core features of autism spectrum disorder related? AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2013; 18:933-42. [PMID: 24031086 DOI: 10.1177/1362361313498518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Psychotropic medication use and its relationship to autism spectrum core features were examined in a well-characterized but nonstratified North American sample (N = 1605) of children/adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders utilizing the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised, from the multisite Simons Simplex Collection. Analyses included (a) prevalence of psychotropic use (overall, and by classes), (b) correlations between prevalence of use and autism spectrum core features, age, and cognitive functioning, and (c) logistic regression to identify whether these factors were predictive of psychotropic use. Results indicated 41.7% ever used one or more classes of psychotropic medications, with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medications used most. Small but significant correlations between psychotropic medication use and (a) social impairment (p < .001) and (b) repetitive behaviors (p < .001) were found. Overall, however, autism spectrum disorder core features are weakly related to medication use. Older children used more psychotropics (p < .001), and higher cognitive functioning was associated with less overall psychotropic use (p < .001). Logistic regression indicated that use of psychotropics was predicted by repetitive behaviors (both clinician-observed and parent-reported), age, and cognitive ability level. Limitations inherent to the Simons Simplex Collection sample, methodology, and the correlational analyses are discussed. Directions for future research include investigation of factors more influential than core symptoms on psychotropic treatment (e.g. parent perceptions, comorbid symptoms).
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Benvenuto A, Battan B, Porfirio MC, Curatolo P. Pharmacotherapy of autism spectrum disorders. Brain Dev 2013; 35:119-27. [PMID: 22541665 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2012.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Revised: 03/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although no pharmacological or behavioral therapy has currently proven effective for treating all core symptoms of autism, many dysfunctional behaviors may be treated pharmacologically. Drug treatments should always be part of a comprehensive management plan that includes behavioral and educational interventions, and should be focused on specific targets. Several classes of psychotropic medications have been used to decrease the wide range of "maladaptive" or "interfering" behaviors and associated medical problems that can interfere with relationships and physical health and hinder the implementation of various non-pharmacological interventions. Atypical neuroleptics have been shown to be useful in the treatment of behavioral symptoms in autism. Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder medications may be effective for counteracting the additional features of hyperactivity and short attention span. Antiepileptic drugs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have shown promising results, but there are no specific indications for them as of yet. With respect to potential drug targets, some clinical features are caused by a dysfunction in neurochemical signaling systems, and thus may improve with selective pharmacological interventions acting on specific abnormal neurobiological pathways. Recent animal studies can be useful models for understanding the common pathogenic pathways leading to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and have the potential to offer new biologically focused treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Benvenuto
- Department of Neuroscience, Pediatric Neurology Unit, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Tor Vergata University, via Montpellier 1, Rome, Italy
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Consoli A, Cohen J, Bodeau N, Guinchat V, Wachtel L, Cohen D. Electroconvulsive therapy in adolescents with intellectual disability and severe self-injurious behavior and aggression: a retrospective study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2013; 22:55-62. [PMID: 22923049 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-012-0320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Efficacious intervention for severe, treatment-refractory self-injurious behavior and aggression (SIB/AGG) in children and adolescents with intellectual disability and concomitant psychiatric disorders remains a complex and urgent issue. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on severe and treatment-resistant SIB/AGG in young people with intellectual disability and current psychiatric disorder. We reviewed the charts of all patients (N = 4) who received ECT in the context of SIB/AGG with resistance to behavioral interventions, milieu therapy and pharmacotherapy from 2007 to 2011. We scored the daily rate of SIB/AGG per patient for each hospital day. Inter rater reliability was good (intraclass correlations = 0.91). We used a mixed generalized linear model to assess whether the following explanatory variables (time, ECT) influenced the course of SIB/AGG over time, the dependant variable. The sample included two girls and two boys. The mean age at admission was 13.8 years old [range 12-14]. The patients had on average 19 ECT sessions [range 16-26] and one patient received maintenance ECT. There was no effect of time before and after ECT start. ECT was associated with a significant decrease in SIB/AGG scores (p < 0.001): mean aggression score post-ECT was half the pre-ECT value. ECT appears beneficial in severe, treatment-resistant SHBA in adolescents with intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angele Consoli
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, GH Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 47-83, Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France.
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Poustka L, Rothermel B, Banaschewski T, Kamp-Becker I. Intensive verhaltenstherapeutische Interventionsprogramme bei Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen. KINDHEIT UND ENTWICKLUNG 2012. [DOI: 10.1026/0942-5403/a000074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen (ASD) sind früh beginnende, persistierende Entwicklungsstörungen, die durch qualitative Beeinträchtigungen der sozialen Kommunikation und Sprache, der sozialen Interaktion sowie durch stereotypes Verhalten und Interessen charakterisiert sind. Für intensive verhaltenstherapeutische Interventionsprogramme, insbesondere nach Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA, „angewandte Verhaltensanalyse“), besteht bisher die beste Evidenz bei ASD-Behandlung. Sie zielen auf die Förderung eines breiten Spektrums an Fertigkeiten ab, wie die Verbesserung der kognitiven und Sprachentwicklung, des Anpassungsverhaltens und der motorischen Funktionen. Neuere Interventionsstudien zeigen einen Trend zur Fokussierung vor allem auf die Verbesserung der sozialen Kommunikation betroffener Kinder. Vorliegende Übersichtarbeit fasst eine Auswahl der bisher untersuchten, intensiven verhaltenstherapeutischen Interventionsprogramme und Elterntrainings für ASD zusammen, um in der klinischen Praxis die Entscheidung für eine evidenzbasierte Therapieempfehlung für betroffene Familien zu erleichtern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luise Poustka
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters am Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Mannheim
| | - Boris Rothermel
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters am Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Mannheim
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters am Zentralinstitut für Seelische Gesundheit Mannheim
| | - Inge Kamp-Becker
- Philipps-Universität Marburg, Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH
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Frazier TW. Friends not foes: combined risperidone and behavior therapy for irritability in autism. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2012; 51:129-31. [PMID: 22265357 PMCID: PMC4117342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2011.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W. Frazier
- Center for Pediatric Behavioral Health and Center for Autism, Cleveland
Clinic
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Scahill L, McDougle CJ, Aman MG, Johnson C, Handen B, Bearss K, Dziura J, Butter E, Swiezy NB, Arnold LE, Stigler KA, Sukhodolsky DD, Lecavalier L, Pozdol SL, Nikolov R, Ritz L, Hollway JA, Korzekwa P, Gavaletz A, Kohn AE, Koenig K, Grinnon S, Mulick JA, Yu S, Vitiello B. Effects of risperidone and parent training on adaptive functioning in children with pervasive developmental disorders and serious behavioral problems. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2012; 51:136-46. [PMID: 22265360 PMCID: PMC3941712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2011.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2011] [Revised: 08/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs) have social interaction deficits, delayed communication, and repetitive behaviors as well as impairments in adaptive functioning. Many children actually show a decline in adaptive skills compared with age mates over time. METHOD This 24-week, three-site, controlled clinical trial randomized 124 children (4 through 13 years of age) with PDDs and serious behavioral problems to medication alone (MED; n = 49; risperidone 0.5 to 3.5 mg/day; if ineffective, switch to aripiprazole was permitted) or a combination of medication plus parent training (PT) (COMB; n = 75). Parents of children in COMB received an average of 11.4 PT sessions. Standard scores and Age-Equivalent scores on Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales were the outcome measures of primary interest. RESULTS Seventeen subjects did not have a post-randomization Vineland assessment. Thus, we used a mixed model with outcome conditioned on the baseline Vineland scores. Both groups showed improvement over the 24-week trial on all Vineland domains. Compared with MED, Vineland Socialization and Adaptive Composite Standard scores showed greater improvement in the COMB group (p = .01 and .05, and effect sizes = 0.35 and 0.22, respectively). On Age Equivalent scores, Socialization and Communication domains showed greater improvement in COMB versus MED (p = .03 and 0.05, and effect sizes = 0.33 and 0.14, respectively). Using logistic regression, children in the COMB group were twice as likely to make at least 6 months' gain (equal to the passage of time) in the Vineland Communication Age Equivalent score compared with MED (p = .02). After controlling for IQ, this difference was no longer significant. CONCLUSION Reduction of serious maladaptive behavior promotes improvement in adaptive behavior. Medication plus PT shows modest additional benefit over medication alone. Clinical trial registration information-RUPP PI PDD: Drug and Behavioral Therapy for Children With Pervasive Developmental Disorders; http://www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCT00080145.
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Behavioral interventions in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: a review of recent findings. Curr Opin Pediatr 2011; 23:616-20. [PMID: 22037220 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0b013e32834cf082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The study provides an overview of recent studies on behavioral interventions for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). RECENT FINDINGS Recent reviews of the effectiveness of early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) conclude that EIBI can improve language and cognitive skills. The first randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a comprehensive early intervention for toddlers with ASD demonstrated gains in language, cognitive abilities, and adaptive behavior. Targeted, brief behavioral interventions are efficacious for improving social communication in young children with ASD. Parents can be taught to deliver behavioral interventions, which are associated with improvements in parent-child interaction; effects on child outcome, however, have been mixed. Several studies show that social skills interventions are efficacious for improving peer relationships and social competence. Behavioral interventions are also effective for reducing anxiety symptoms and aggression. Medication combined with behavioral intervention was found to be more effective for reducing aggression than medication alone. SUMMARY Behavioral interventions are effective for improving language, cognitive abilities, adaptive behavior, and social skills, and reducing anxiety and aggression. Medication combined with behavioral intervention appears to be more effective for reducing aggressive behavior than medication alone.
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Frazier TW, Shattuck PT, Narendorf SC, Cooper BP, Wagner M, Spitznagel EL. Prevalence and correlates of psychotropic medication use in adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder with and without caregiver-reported attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol 2011; 21:571-9. [PMID: 22166171 PMCID: PMC3279713 DOI: 10.1089/cap.2011.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many youths with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) benefit from psychotropic medication treatment of co-morbid symptom patterns consistent with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The lack of clear indications and algorithms to direct clinical practice has led to a very poor understanding of overall medication use for these youths. The present study examined the prevalence of psychotropic medication use compared across individuals with an ASD without a caregiver-reported ADHD diagnosis (ASD-only), ADHD without ASD (ADHD-only), and an ASD with co-morbid ADHD (ASD+ADHD). Correlates of medication use were also examined. METHODS Data on psychotropic medication from the first wave of the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2, a nationally representative study of adolescents ages 13-17 in special education, were used to compare the prevalence of medication use across the three groups, overall and by class. Separate logistic regression models were constructed for each group to examine the correlates of psychotropic medication use. Poisson regression models were used to examine correlates of the number of medications. RESULTS Youths with ASD+ADHD had the highest rates of use (58.2%), followed by youths with ADHD-only (49.0%) and youths with ASD-only (34.3%). Youths with an ASD, both ASD-only and ASD+ADHD, used medications across a variety of medication classes, whereas stimulants were dominant among youths with ADHD-only. African American youths with ASD-only and with ASD+ADHD were less likely to receive medication than white youths, whereas race was not associated with medication use in the ADHD-only group. CONCLUSIONS Clearer practice parameters for ADHD have likely contributed to more consistency in treatment, whereas treatment for ASD reflects a trial and error approach based on associated symptom patterns. Additional studies examining the treatment of core and associated ASD symptoms are needed to guide pharmacologic treatment of these youths. Interventions targeting African American youths with ASD and the physicians who serve them are also warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Frazier
- Center for Autism and Center for Pediatric Behavioral Health, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
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Munshi KR, Gonzalez-Heydrich J, Augenstein T, D'Angelo EJ. Evidence-based treatment approach to autism spectrum disorders. Pediatr Ann 2011; 40:569-74. [PMID: 22066509 DOI: 10.3928/00904481-20111007-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Neurol 2011; 24:183-90. [DOI: 10.1097/wco.0b013e32834585ec] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
This article provides an overview of the psychopharmacologic management of irritability, hyperactivity, and repetitive behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. A review of the current literature on medications used to treat these conditions with emphasis on randomized controlled trials is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Nazeer
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Kalamazoo, MI 49048-1633, USA.
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