Autistic Disorder
Autistic disorder is a pervasive developmental disorder that starts in early childhood and continues throughout life. The core symptoms of autistic disorder are problems with social interaction, communication, and rigid or repetitive patterns of behaviors.
In addition to these core symptoms, children may have serious behavioral problems, such as aggression, tantrums, and quickly changing moods. These behaviors can interfere with education, therapy, and socialization. They also pose enormous challenges for parents and educators. Although there is no cure for autistic disorder or treatments for the core symptoms of autistic disorder, scientists are researching ways to help.
RISPERDAL is approved for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents (ages 5-16 years), including symptoms of aggression, self-injury, tantrums, and quickly changing moods. It is the first and only prescription medication approved by the FDA for this purpose.
RISPERDAL is not for every child with autistic disorder, but when medication is appropriate, it can be an important step in the treatment process.
