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DRUG INFORMATION ROUNDS

Treating Functional Impairment of Autism with Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitors

Drug Information Specialty Resident, Drug Information Center, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN

Samantha F Eichner, PharmD

Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee; Associate Director, Drug Information Center, University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Jennifer R Jones, PharmD

Coordinator, Drug Use Policy, Methodist Healthcare University Hospital; Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee

Reprints: Malia L Moore PharmD, Drug Information Center, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 875 Monroe Ave., Ste. 109, Memphis, TN 38163-0001, fax 901/448-5419, mmoore31{at}utmem.edu

OBJECTIVE: To review literature describing use of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the management of functional impairments associated with autistic disorder.

DATA SOURCES: EMBASE (1980–3rd quarter of 2003), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–August 2003), and MEDLINE (1966–August 2003) were searched. Search terms included autism, autistic disorder, citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, and sertraline.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Studies and case reports evaluating treatment outcomes associated with the use of SSRIs in managing impairments of autism were reviewed. Multiple SSRI dosing ranges were evaluated in autistic patients of different ages with various functional impairments. No specific SSRI or dose range has been shown to improve a specific autistic symptom although some patients have demonstrated improvements.

CONCLUSIONS: Benefits with SSRIs in treating functional impairments in autism have been observed. Response to therapy and adverse effects are individualized. Current evidence does not support selection of one SSRI over another for any impairment associated with autism.

Key Words: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorders, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor

Published Online, August 3, 2004. www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1D543

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