Abstract

This month’s Cochrane Corner meta-analysis evaluates the evidence for the use of aripiprazole in ‘autism spectrum disorders’ – although in fact, outcome measures mainly included subtypes of challenging behaviour and side-effects.

Aripiprazole was found to be effective in reducing irritability and hyperactivity, while causing extrapyramidal side-effects and weight gain.

Only three trials were included in the review, with two small trials eventually included in the meta-analysis.

All trials were conducted in under-18s in the USA, with no requirement for a trial of behavioural management before psychotropic medication, and excluding under-18s with important comorbidities such as medicated attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

All three studies were sponsored and funded by the manufacturer of aripiprazole.

Further, a discontinuation trial showed no evidence of sustained benefit beyond 16 weeks of treatment.

Citations

Bunting, A., & Feldman, H. (2023). Aripiprazole in autism spectrum disorder: Current evidence for use. BJPsych Advances, 1-5.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1192/bja.2022.77

URI: https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/orka/title/aripiprazole-in-autism-spectrum-disorder-current-evidence-for-use/