Autism: the treatment of aggressive behaviors

J Clin Psychopharmacol. 1987 Feb;7(1):35-41.

Abstract

Eight consecutive cases of adults with the diagnosis of early infantile autism and who were treated with a betablocker are presented. Each had been on various and multiple drug, educational, and behavioral regimens to help control aggressive and self-abusive behavior. Most had been institutionalized from an early age, and a broad range of IQs and speech capacities are represented. Results show the betablockers to have a remarkable effect potentiating measurable diminution in previously intractable aggressive behavior and in many cases the decrease or withdrawal of their neuroleptic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Adult
  • Aggression / drug effects*
  • Arousal / drug effects
  • Autistic Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists