The use of psychotropic medications in autistic individuals (21 years and younger) in Western Australia: A preliminary investigation

Prescriptions and use of medications to treat mental health conditions in young autistic populations are inconsistent worldwide. This makes it hard to compare findings from international studies to the Australian autistic population, where there are limited relevant studies. Apart from risperidone, there are no other medications specified for direct use in autistic persons. This study aims to gain initial broad understanding of the use of medications, commonly prescribed for mental health conditions, specifically by autistics under the age of 21 years.

Citation:
Bulonza R, Watkins K, Parsons R, .......Whitehouse A, et al. The use of psychotropic medications in autistic individuals (21 years and younger) in Western Australia: A preliminary investigation. Autism. 2024;28(8):2002-13.

Keywords:
adolescent; antidepressant agents; anxiety; autism spectrum disorder medication; child; depression; mental health; psychotropic; risperidone

Abstract:
Prescriptions and use of medications to treat mental health conditions in young autistic populations are inconsistent worldwide. This makes it hard to compare findings from international studies to the Australian autistic population, where there are limited relevant studies. Apart from risperidone, there are no other medications specified for direct use in autistic persons. This study aims to gain initial broad understanding of the use of medications, commonly prescribed for mental health conditions, specifically by autistics under the age of 21 years.