An Update On CAM In Autism: Perspectives From a Child Psychiatrist

A number of treatments, both traditional and non-traditional, are utilized in the management and care of children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders. This review will attempt to assimilate and summarize in a clear, balanced fashion the diverse body of research in the non-traditional or “complementary and alternative” approaches to autism. Topics addressed will include herbal and vitamin supplements, probiotics, mind-body medicine, and dietary modifications. As available mainstream treatments for autism provided by child and adolescent psychiatrists are limited and often inadequate, many parents and families of autistic children turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments for help. Unfortunately, few psychiatrists are trained or experienced in both traditional and complementary approaches. On the other hand, too often recommendations from alternative medicine providers are limited in scientific rigor or purview. Furthermore, caregivers, parents, and family members of children with autism are ill-equipped to thoroughly understand and evaluate the myriad complementary and alternative approaches to the treatment of autism. The purpose of this session is to provide such an overview.

First, the session will begin with a brief survey of the history of complementary and alternative medicine, defined by the so named National Center at the National Institutes of Health as “a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered to be part of conventional medicine”. Participants will discover that many treatments currently viewed as traditional were in essence co-opted from CAM. The session will then explore behavioral, psychiatric, and selected general health areas in which CAM has shown or theoretically could show benefit in autism. Behavioral and psychiatric domains that will be addressed include irritability, hyperactivity, anxiety, aggression, and sleep disturbances. General health topics such as intestinal permeability, the role of gut bacteria, and dietary issues will also be reviewed.  

Whereas hundreds of methods and treatments could be viewed as CAM, only treatments that have research, trials, or proposed mechanisms to support their efficacy will be presented. Some of these treatments include a number of vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, natural medications for sleep, and gastrointestinal medications. Additionally, mind-body interventions such as yoga and meditation will be addressed. This presentation will explore some of the potential benefits as well as risks for each of these approaches and will compare and contrast related traditional treatments when applicable.

This program will serve to benefit both concerned parents and treating practitioners who care about and for youth with autism spectrum disorders. At the conclusion of the program, participants will understand the history and evolution of complementary and alternative medicine; identify selected psychiatric, behavioral, and general health areas that are well-suited to CAM interventions; recognize alternative treatments that are likely to be beneficial and are supported by both research and clinical experience; and anticipate potential future avenues for research.