While there is no medication specifically for Asperger’s or autism spectrum disorders, medication may be prescribed for depression, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., Prozac). Some medications may also help reduce the repetitive behaviors that are characteristic of Asperger’s.
What does Prozac do for autism?
Researchers found that Prozac, given during development, can reduce autism-like traits in mouse models of the disorder. Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are varied but often include difficulty with socializing and exhibiting repetitive behaviors.
Can Aspergers cause mood swings?
However, these disorders are mostly accompanied by severe mood swings, whereas special interests and pronounced rational thinking are usually lacking. Depression is one of the most important comorbid disorders. Its development is also caused by impairments in patients’ personal and professional lives.
Does Prozac Help ADHD?
Many clinicians opt for fluoxetine (Prozac), since it has no effect on ADHD and its long duration in the body makes it an ideal drug for patients who forget to take it. Some clinicians may use a second-line medication alone for cases of mild to moderate depression plus ADHD.
What is the best antidepressant for autism?
Clinical experience suggests that one type, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors or SSRIs, “are useful and generally safe” in autism, according to an article by psychiatrists at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. SSRIs, which include Prozac and Zoloft, are also used to treat some anxiety disorders.
Do Aspergers get depressed?
“Adults with Asperger’s syndrome often suffer with secondary depression due to social isolation, loneliness, social exclusion, lack of community services, underachievement and unemployment. Their depression and risk of suicide are preventable with the appropriate support.
Is it safe to increase the dose of Prozac?
In fact, the Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Major Depressive Disorder states that lowering your dose (followed by a more gradual increase) can help to mitigate or lessen many side effects: SSRI side effects are generally divided into separate categories:
Are there any side effects to taking Prozac for children?
Fluoxetine hydrochloride oral tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients. Along with its needed effects, fluoxetine (the active ingredient contained in Prozac) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Are there any sexual side effects to Prozac?
Sexual side effects with SSRI drugs like Prozac are well-documented and can include everything from loss of libido to erectile dysfunction. However, the true incidence of sexual dysfunction symptoms with Prozac isn’t well known as the mental conditions (e.g. depression) themselves are often contributing factors.
When do the side effects of Prozac go away?
In most cases, they will decrease in severity or subside completely with long term use. The side effects of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), like Prozac ( fluoxetine ), are generally considered to be dose-dependent.