HEALTH TOPICS 
No "magic pill" for autism spectrum disorders
Although medication prescriptions are common, there is little evidence they do any good.
Surveys indicate that nearly half of children with autism spectrum disorders take some type of psychiatric medication — most often antidepressants, antipsychotics, or stimulants. Yet a federally funded study concluded that most of these drugs aren't effective at treating symptoms of autism spectrum disorders.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise