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Higher-functioning pervasive developmental disorders: rates and patterns of psychotropic drug use
1Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. andres.martin@yale.edu
Summary
Psychotropic medication is common in individuals with higher-functioning pervasive developmental disorders (HFPDDs), often treating anxiety. However, usage patterns may not align with research, indicating potential overlooked comorbidities.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Psychopharmacology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Higher-functioning pervasive developmental disorders (HFPDDs) encompass conditions like Asperger's disorder and autism.
- Understanding psychotropic drug use in this population is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and symptom targets of psychotropic medication use in individuals with HFPDDs.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 109 children, adolescents, and adults with HFPDDs (IQ ≥ 70) completed medication history surveys.
- Drug classes were analyzed against demographic and clinical variables to assess naturalistic medication use patterns.
Main Results:
- 55% of subjects used psychotropic medications, with 29.3% on multiple drugs.
- Antidepressants (32.1%), stimulants (20.2%), and neuroleptics (16.5%) were most common.
- Anxiety symptoms were the most frequent target (65%) in medicated individuals.
Conclusions:
- Psychotropic medication use is prevalent in HFPDDs but may lack empirical research backing.
- Clinical heterogeneity suggests potential underdiagnosis of psychiatric comorbidities in this group.