What are the treatment options for autism?

This article discusses the possible treatment options for children with autism. Please note that children with multiple disorders present with autism. A consultation and a neuro-genetic diagnosis are very important early on. - JR

There is currently no one standard treatment for autism.

For many people with ASD, it is not too late to benefit from treatment, no matter how old they are when they are diagnosed. People of all ages, at all levels of ability, can often improve after well-designed interventions.

But there are many ways to help minimize the symptoms and maximize abilities. People who have ASD have the best chance of using all of their abilities and skills if they receive appropriate therapies and interventions.

The most effective therapies and interventions are often different for each person. However, most people with ASD respond best to highly structured and specialized programs.¹In some cases, treatment can help people with autism to function at near-normal levels.

Research shows that early diagnosis and interventions, such as during preschool or before, are more likely to have major positive effects on symptoms and later skills. Read more about early interventionsfor autism.

A genetic, neurometabolic diagnosis can be helpful in treatment and in finding co-morbid conditions. Seizures are common and found in 30% of children. If your child has had a regression, staring spells or other events of unclear etiology, ask your doctor. 

Because there can be overlap in symptoms between ASD and other disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),2 it’s important that treatment focus on a person’s specific needs, rather than the diagnostic label.

Select the links for more information on each type of treatment for ASD.

Types of Therapies for ASD

• Behavioral management therapy 
• Cognitive behavior therapy 
• Early intervention 
• Educational and school-based therapies 
• Joint attention therapy 
• Medication treatment 
• Nutritional therapy 
• Occupational therapy 
• Parent-mediated therapy 
• Physical therapy 
• Social skills training 
• Speech-language therapy 

If you have a question about treatment, talk to a health care provider who specializes in caring for people with ASD. These resources have more information about treatments for autism:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes some treatment options.
  http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/treatment.html
• The Autism Speaks organization offers a Family Services Resources guide. You can search the guide to find autism-related care and services in your area.
  http://www.autismspeaks.org/community/fsdb/search.php 

Read more here