CLINICAL EFFICACY AND TOLERABILITY OF RISPERIDONE IN THE TREATMENT OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN CHILDREN: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. Children with ASD often face significant challenges, including irritability, aggression, and difficulties in social skills, which impacts their quality of life and daily functioning. Thus, the objective of this study is to synthesize the scientific literature on the use of risperidone in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder in children, analyzing the positive and adverse therapeutic effects reported in the literature. The research reviewed the existing literature on the use of risperidone in children with ASD, analyzing studies that report its therapeutic and adverse consequences. Efficacy data such as improvements in Clinical Global Impressions Improvement (CGI-I) scores and the incidence of side effects were considered. The results indicate that risperidone is effective in reducing irritability, aggression, and hyperactivity in children with ASD, with significant improvements seen in up to 60% of patients. However, side effects such as weight gain, sedation, and increased prolactin levels raise concerns about the safety of the treatment. Risperidone may be an option for the management of challenging behaviors in children with ASD, but its use should be carefully monitored due to potential adverse effects. The combination of pharmacological interventions with behavioral therapies may offer additional support in the treatment of ASD.