![]() ![]() However, chronic use of benzodiazepines is associated with the risk of dependence and excessive sleepiness. They are also taken to manage outbursts of aggressive behaviours and irritability. Benzodiazepinesīenzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Drug response genetic tests can provide useful insights into autism treatment. It is metabolized by a different liver enzyme called CYP3A5. For people with altered CYP2D6 metabolism, quetiapine might be tried as an alternative. Up to 50% of people in North America have altered CYP2D6 metabolism (either faster or slower than what is considered “normal”). Other antipsychotic medications, such as clozapine and olanzapine, are also metabolized by this liver enzyme. The CYP2D6 liver enzyme metabolizes both risperidone and aripiprazole. The use of antipsychotics can also worsen involuntary movements. It affects hormonal balance and may lead to breast enlargement ( gynecomastia, which affects boys or men). However, it is important to know that risperidone may cause some undesirable side effects. ![]() These Antipsychotic medications may help with aggression, self-harm, and behavioural problems in both children and adults with autism. Risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are two FDA-approved drugs for treating autism irritability. The Pillcheck pharmacogenetic testing service combines DNA analysis with an expert pharmacist review of medications to help find optimal autism treatment for each individual. Thanks to genetic testing, we avoid drugs and dosages that are likely to cause adverse side effects or that may simply be ineffective. Pharmacogenetic testing shows the activity level of these liver enzymes and predicts how each person will respond to various medications. Conversely, faster metabolism reduces the drug’s blood concentration and effectiveness. Slower drug clearance increases the risk of side effects due to drug buildup in the bloodstream. The level of specific enzyme’s function determines both the efficacy and side effects of different medications taken by the patient. Genetic variations can affect the activity of these liver enzymes. Most drugs are metabolized by a group of liver enzymes called “cytochromes P450” or “CYPs”. If a child is going to take antipsychotic, ADHD or antiepileptic medications, it is important to understand how their body will metabolize each drug. A 2015 review highlights the efficacy of various medicines for autism treatment, but unfortunately, side effects can be concerning. Many children with ASD also end up taking medications that are used for managing irritability, ADHD and epilepsy. In a recent clinical report on autism, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting early behavioural autism therapy. Here we describe how genetic analysis can help to optimize autism treatment. Although there are no medications that can cure the core symptoms of autism, medication may help address some of the behavioural problems, such as irritability, anxiety, depression and ADHD. Recent genomic studies identified the role of structural DNA changes in hundreds of genes in the predisposition to ASD. ![]() Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that arises due to various genetic variations.
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