Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 25, 2026

A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Current options for the treatment of anxiety in adults with autism spectrum disorder
Carmen Lopez-Arvizu1,2, Jonathan Muniz1,2
1Developmental Behavioral Health, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Introduction:
Anxiety affects approximately 30-40% of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), yet its diagnosis and treatment remain underrepresented in the literature. Autism is a lifelong condition and addressing it across lifespan while considering its developmental stage is essential. Tailored clinical approaches are needed to accommodate communication, cognitive, and sensory differences.
Areas Covered:
This expert review examines the clinical assessment and evidence-based pharmacological treatment for adults with anxiety disorders.
Expert Opinion:
Clinicians should redesign workflows to allow developmentally appropriate interviews. Self-reported validated tools, such as HADS-A (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale - Anxiety) and Anxiety Scale for Autism-Adults (ASA-A), and adapted versions of Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item scale (PHQ-9) improve diagnostic accuracy, except when caregiver input is necessary. Pharmacological treatments show mixed results: fluvoxamine and clomipramine have shown promise, while citalopram, propranolol, and intranasal oxytocin yielded limited efficacy. Effective treatment of anxiety can improve quality of life, reduce functional impairment, and enhance health outcomes. Equity in care critical to improving access for this underserved population and requires comprehensive education in neurodevelopmental disorders for researchers and clinicians. Further research and innovation are needed to validate tools and optimize treatment strategies for this often-excluded population.
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Anxiolytic Drugs: Overview
Primary Types of Anxiolytic Drugs
1. Benzodiazepines:
Benzodiazepines bind to the GABA-A receptor in the brain, enhancing GABA's interaction. This action reduces neurotransmission, effectively blocking anxiety-associated limbic...
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.

