REVIEW ON COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Authors: Fayas Ahamed Z And Rajanandh MG*

ABSTRACT
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way the brain functions and develops. People with ASD may have difficulty with social behavior and communication and tend to engage in solitary activities. Since there are no reliable biomarkers for ASD, diagnosis is based on behavioral observations. Behavioral intervention and speech therapy are the main treatments for ASD. Moreover, antipsychotic medications such as Aripiprazole, Risperidone for ASD, and Methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and guanfacine are commonly used to treat ADHD in children with ASD. However, these antipsychotics can cause significant side effects, leading parents to explore complementary and alternative treatments (CAT). CATs have shown greater safety and efficacy than antipsychotics. Many CATs are used to improve ASD symptoms, and while some may have minor adverse effects, they do not cause any major adverse effects. The study reports a review of the adverse effects that have been reported in CATs. Therefore, it is important to avoid therapies that are harmful, impractical, difficult, or expensive and instead focus on safe, simple, affordable, and sensible therapies for ASD. Keywords: Complementary medicine, Alternative medicine, Speech therapy, Occupational therapy
Publication date: 15/12/2023
    https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2023/December/MS_IJBPAS_2023_DECEMBER_SPCL_1006.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2023/12.12.1006