ABSTRACT

Background: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of complex neurodevelopment disorders that are characterized by abnormal or delayed speech, poor social communication, repetitive stereotypical behavior/restricted interests, and sensory abnormalities. Although there is no efficient pharmacological treatment for the core symptoms of ASD, atypical antipsychotics, such as Risperidone and Aripiprazole, are U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- approved for the management of ASD- associated irritability. The aim of this study is to examine the effectiveness and adverse effects of Risperidone in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Methods: A Prospective Observational study was carried out at the Department of Child Developmental Center, Pratheeksha, Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital, Thiruvalla, for a period of six months. Effectivenesss were assessed based on CGI score and adverse effects were assessed based on a structured questionnaire. Results: This study included 64 patients consisted of 71.9% males (n=46) and 28.1%females (n=18) with mean age of 5.27 years, reflects a high proportion of males, which is consistent with the typical gender distribution observed in ASD populations and majority of the population (78.1%) falls within the age group of 3-6years, while only a small proportion (12.5%) & (9.4%) falls within the age group of 10- 12years and 7-9 years, respectively. A notable rise in BMI seen in both males and female group but when compared with age group, study suggests more pronounced effect on BMI among age group 3-6 years when compared with 7-9 years and 10-12years of age group. And there is a significant association between severity level and effectiveness. Weight gain and somnolence were the notable adverse effects shown in these patients. Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that males are most commonly affected than females. Risperidone is moderately effective in both the groups and shows weight gain and somnolence as the notable adverse effects. Keywords: ASD; Risperidone; Effectiveness; Adverse effects; Severity of ASD; Global Improvement; Efficacy Index
Publication date: 01/11/2025

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/November/MS_IJBPAS_2025_9575.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.11.9575