From the Guidelines
Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in adults typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy, social skills training, occupational therapy, and sometimes medication, tailored to individual needs and challenges. The most effective approach often includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to manage anxiety and improve social functioning, as well as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to address specific behavioral challenges 1.
Behavioral Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help adults with autism manage anxiety and improve social functioning
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) may address specific behavioral challenges
- Occupational therapy can help with daily living skills and sensory integration
Medication Options
- SSRIs like fluoxetine (20-80mg daily) or sertraline (50-200mg daily) may help with repetitive behaviors and anxiety
- Antipsychotics such as risperidone (0.5-6mg daily) might be prescribed for severe behavioral issues, though these carry significant side effects
- Stimulants like methylphenidate (10-60mg daily) can address comorbid ADHD symptoms, as noted in the practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder 1.
Comprehensive Care
- Vocational rehabilitation, support groups, and life skills training are also important components of comprehensive care
- Many adults benefit from accommodations at work or school, such as clear communication, structured environments, and sensory modifications
- Treatment works best when it builds on individual strengths while addressing specific challenges, as autism presents differently in each person and continues throughout adulthood, requiring ongoing support and adaptation 1.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Adults
- Treatment planning for adults with ASD can be challenging due to the heterogeneous nature of the disorder, and may involve a multitude of disciplines 2.
- As adults with ASD approach and proceed through adulthood, transition training, housing options, and guardianship issues may be priorities 2.
- Cognitive-behavioral treatments (CBT) for anxiety, when adapted and expanded to target ASD characteristics, may be beneficial for older adolescents and young adults with high-functioning autism 3.
- Pharmacological interventions, such as atypical antipsychotics, may be effective in reducing irritability and self-injury in adults with ASD, but can also have adverse effects 4.
- Adults with ASD often experience significant disadvantages regarding employment, social relationships, physical and mental health, and quality of life, and may require support to facilitate integration within the wider society 5.
Pharmacological Interventions
- Atypical antipsychotics may reduce irritability and self-injury in adults with ASD, but may also increase the risk of neurological and metabolic adverse effects 4.
- ADHD-related medications may reduce irritability slightly, but may also increase the risk of neurological and metabolic adverse effects 4.
- Neurohormones may have minimal to no effect on irritability in adults with ASD, but may reduce the risk of headaches 4.
- Antidepressants may not have a clear effect on irritability in adults with ASD, but may increase the risk of metabolic and psychological adverse effects 4.
Non-Pharmacological Interventions
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be beneficial for older adolescents and young adults with high-functioning autism 3.
- Transition training, housing options, and guardianship issues may be important considerations for adults with ASD 2.
- Support to facilitate integration within the wider society may be necessary to improve outcomes for adults with ASD 5.