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Rationale for the administration of opiate antagonists in treating infantile autism
Abstract:
A rationale exists for clinical trials of opiate antagonists in at least some patients with pervasive developmental disorders. An abnormality in levels of an endogenous opioid ligand, which may be partially corrected by neuroleptics, has been reported in the plasma of some autistic patients. Moreover, data suggesting that opiate antagonism may improve faulty attention and diminish the frequency of self-injurious behavior were reviewed. Opiate antagonists may prove useful for those autistic patients with a profile of inattentiveness and self-injurious behavior. Also, these agents may act synergistically with neuroleptics.
Insights
Opiate antagonists may benefit some patients with pervasive developmental disorders, particularly those with attention deficits and self-injurious behaviors. These drugs might also enhance neuroleptic treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with endogenous opioid system abnormalities.
- Some studies suggest neuroleptics may partially correct these opioid level abnormalities.
- Self-injurious behavior and attention deficits are common in some individuals with ASD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale for investigating opiate antagonists in pervasive developmental disorders.
- To explore the potential benefits of opiate antagonism for specific behavioral profiles in autism.
- To assess the potential for synergistic effects between opiate antagonists and neuroleptics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on endogenous opioid ligands in autism.
- Analysis of data linking opiate antagonism to improvements in attention.
- Examination of evidence for opiate antagonists reducing self-injurious behavior.
- Review of studies on combined opiate antagonist and neuroleptic treatment.
Main Results:
- Abnormal endogenous opioid ligand levels have been observed in some autistic patients.
- Opiate antagonism shows potential for improving attention deficits in ASD.
- Evidence suggests opiate antagonists may decrease the frequency of self-injurious behavior.
- Opiate antagonists may offer synergistic effects when used with neuroleptic medications.
Conclusions:
- Clinical trials of opiate antagonists are warranted for specific patient groups within pervasive developmental disorders.
- Opiate antagonists represent a potential therapeutic avenue for autistic individuals exhibiting inattentiveness and self-harm.
- Combined treatment with opiate antagonists and neuroleptics may enhance therapeutic outcomes.