Introduction
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex condition, recognized as a disorder rather than a curable disease. However, numerous biomedical therapies recommended by practitioners to enhance the well-being and mental performance of children with autism.
Gluten-Free/Casein-Free (GFCF) Diet:
The GFCF diet involves the elimination of foods containing gluten and casein, proteins found in wheat, oats, rye, barley, and dairy products. Although research on its efficacy is ongoing, some children have experienced improvements in sleep, behaviors, and bowel regulation. Consultation with a dietitian before adopting this diet is advisable.
Medications for Autism Treatment:
Various medications, prescribed under the guidance of psychiatric medical professionals, are associated with autism treatment. These include antidepressants, antipsychotics, stimulants, risperidone, SSRIs, oxytocin, MAOIs, tricyclics, catapres, tenex, medications for anxiety, anti-seizure drugs, neuroleptics, atypical, antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial drugs, and others.
Metabolism and Autism Spectrum Disorders:
Treatments targeting metabolic irregularities, including drugs, diet, and nutritional supplements, have shown promise in reducing autism symptoms. Disorders such as Phenylketonuria, Histidinemia, Adenylosuccinate lyase deficiency, Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency, 5prime-nucleotidase super activity, and Phosphoribosylpyrophosphate synthetase deficiency may be addressed through metabolic interventions.
Secretin Therapy:
Secretin treatment, administered intravenously through endoscopy, aims to increase pancreaticobiliary fluids, potentially leading to gastrointestinal changes. Repetitive injections may enhance social and behavioral skills in children with autism.
Vitamins for Neurological Health:
Research indicates that the CIS form of vitamin A aids in reconstructing brain regions controlling speech and vision, addressing weaknesses often observed in children with autism. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in nerve health, promoting the production of neurotransmitters essential for communication within the brain.
Chelation Therapy:
Chelation therapy, commonly used for lead poisoning, is a controversial approach to treating autism. Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic acid (EDTA), a chelating agent, is introduced intravenously or orally to bond with metals like mercury. Successful removal of metals may contribute to a child’s recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, biomedical therapies offer a spectrum of options for improving the overall well-being of children with autism. It’s crucial to approach these therapies under the guidance of qualified medical professionals and practitioners for optimal effectiveness.
Source
- Adams, J. B., Holloway, C. E., George, F., & Quig, D. (2006). Analyses of toxic metals and essential minerals in the hair of Arizona children with autism and associated conditions, and their mothers. Biological Trace Element Research, 110(3), 193-209. DOI: 10.1385/BTER:110:3:193
- Srinivasan, P., Aarthy, R., & Srinivasan, V. (2012). Role of chelation in the treatment of autism. Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics, 3(1), 86-88. DOI: 10.4103/0976-500X.92503
- Adams, J. B., Baral, M., Geis, E., Mitchell, J., Ingram, J., Hensley, A., … & Gehn, E. (2009). Safety and efficacy of oral DMSA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders: Part A—medical results. BMC Clinical Pharmacology, 9(1), 16. DOI: 10.1186/1472-6904-9-16
- Adams, J. B., Baral, M., Geis, E., Mitchell, J., Ingram, J., Hensley, A., … & Gehn, E. (2009). Safety and efficacy of oral DMSA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders: Part B—behavioral results. BMC Clinical Pharmacology, 9(1), 17. DOI: 10.1186/1472-6904-9-17
- James, S. J., Cutler, P., Melnyk, S., Jernigan, S., Janak, L., Gaylor, D. W., & Neubrander, J. A. (2004). Metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidative stress and impaired methylation capacity in children with autism. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 80(6), 1611-1617. DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/80.6.1611