Date of Award
5-2019
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)
Department
Physician Assistant Studies
First Advisor
Julie Solberg
Keywords
ASD, ADHD, PDD-NOS, Asperger syndrome, autistic disorder, Hyperactivity, Stimulants, MPH, Guanfacine, Clonidine
Abstract
The incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in 8-year old children is 1 in 59. This increased from approximately 1 in 150 reported in 2000-2002 (Baio et al., 2014). Autism includes deficits in social emotional reciprocity, non-verbal communication for social interactions, developing and maintaining relationships and in some cases, hyperactivity response to sensory input. Hyperactivity is a shared behavior with ASD and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Medications such as Methylphenidate (MPH) and α 2-a adrenergic receptor agonists are used to modify hyperactivity behavior in ADHD and thus have been used as management in ASD. A review of literature was done to evaluate the use of medications typically used for ADHD in the use of ASD. The databases searched included PubMED, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Clinical Key. Current findings are inconclusive as to whether these medications are as effective at treating impulsivity-hyperactivity behaviors in children with ASD.
Recommended Citation
Katnis, Jenna, "Pharmacotherapy for Impulsivity-Hyperactivity Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorder" (2019). Physician Assistant Scholarly Project Papers. 37.
https://commons.und.edu/pas-grad-papers/37