Medication Profile of Risperidone in patients within the Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is established as a behavioral disorder that affects typical neurodevelopment, which can modify brain activities and neural connections in several areas of the neural system, such as cognitive, language and the limbic system. Patients with ASD have different levels of support and, therefore, it may be necessary to administer medications that minimize the comorbidities associated with the disorder. One of the most prescribed medications for patients with ASD is risperidone, classified as an antipsychotic, helping to improve symptoms related to aggression, self-harm, psychomotor agitation and challenging behaviors. On the other hand, adverse effects can be described as salivation, fatigue, tremors, tachycardia, increased appetite and weight gain. This study aimed to verify with those responsible for children and adolescents with ASD the main benefits and adverse effects of the continuous use of risperidone in the daily life of the ASD patient, through the application of a questionnaire. The main results observed were that risperidone in general contributes to the reduction of symptoms of hyperactivity, irritability and aggressiveness and, to a lesser extent, to the improvement of restricted interests, emotional interaction and verbal communication. Due to the complexity of ASD and the vulnerability of autistic children and young people, it is believed that this medication should be used under medical supervision and caution, checking the main side effects and monitoring its use, especially when prolonged use is necessary.