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Aripiprazole in patients with autistic spectrum disorders: a review and case reports

Eiji Kirino

Background: Although a significant amount of literature regarding use of aripiprazole (APZ) in autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs) has benne published, APZ is not approved for use in autism or ASDs in countries other than the United States. Even in the United States, approved use of APZ is limited to the patients with autism in children and adolescents. This review and case reports focus on the available evidence and clinical experience regarding the use of APZ in patients with ASDs including adults

Methods: A literature review was conducted, using the PubMed search term ‘aripiprazole’and(‘autistic spectrum disorder’, ‘pervasive developmental disorders’ or ‘Asperger’s disorder’).

Results: In previous reports, APZ can target symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggression, and irritability. Compared with other antipsychotics, APZ also causes fewer adverse events that can lead to drug discontinuation. The case reports supported the literature review: APZ has moderate sedative, antidepressant, and antianxiety effects, when used to treat ASDs. None of the patients experienced adverse reactions (e.g., extrapyramidal symptoms, weight gain, and sedation).

Conclusion: APZ reduces aggression in ASDs and improves qualitative deficits in interpersonal interactions and motivation. APZ also causes fewer adverse events. APZ may be associated with favorable treatment compliance, and may improve treatment of ASDs.