Complementary and alternative medicine treatments for children with autism spectrum disorders

Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am. 2015 Jan;24(1):117-43. doi: 10.1016/j.chc.2014.09.004. Epub 2014 Oct 3.

Abstract

There are many treatments in current use for core and associated symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This review discusses the complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments commonly added to conventional interventions for children with ASD, including natural products, mind and body practices, and other biomedical treatments. The article focuses on factors associated with use of CAM, the empirical evidence for the most frequently used treatments, and how clinicians work with families who choose CAM treatments. Some treatments have been ineffective, some have unacceptable potential side effects, and others require more study in depth.

Keywords: Autism; Autism spectrum; Complementary and alternative treatments; Evidence based.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / therapy*
  • Complementary Therapies / methods*
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Family
  • Humans
  • Self Medication / methods*
  • United States