Therapies for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

withdrew after the first six weeks; six of these children were in the donepezil group when
blinding was broken and two of these discontinued due to gastrointestinal problems, while six
discontinued due to increased irritability and associated behavioral issues.
One poor study each was identified for rivastigmine tartrate therapy 256 and daily oral
DMSA. 250,255 In a 2-week open label study of rivastigmine tartrate therapy scores at 12 weeks
were significantly improved on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, expressive picture
vocabulary, and the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale measure of oppositional,
hyperactive, and inattention-related behaviors; no significant effects were observed on receptive
picture vocabulary at 12 weeks. The randomized controlled trial of DMSA demonstrated no
advantage of DMSA over placebo.
KQ1. Effects of Treatment on Core and Commonly Associated Symptoms
in Children With ASDs: Allied Health Interventions
Among allied health disciplines, several intervention approaches have been developed to
address core symptoms of autism and associated difficulties and deficits. We broadly divided
allied health studies meeting our inclusion criteria into those focused on language, those
employing sensory or auditory integration techniques including music therapy, and those
addressing techniques such as horseback riding and occupational therapy. Table 23 summarizes
aspects of studies of allied health interventions addressing KQ1.
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