Biomedical therapies in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are most commonly thought of as complementary and alternative medicines and treatments as compared to conventional prescriptions and evidence-based therapies. Some examples are high-dose vitamins, special diets, probiotics and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Autism spectrum disorders are currently defined by behavior. Currently there is no blood test or imaging study that predicts or is used to diagnose ASD. No two individuals with ASD develop the exact same set of symptoms (all have individual presentations) and there may be many causes of autism. Although many genes have been linked to ASD, the basic physiology of ASD remains unknown.
In addition to the behavioral definition of ASD, parents have long noted differences in the functions of various bodily systems (such as the GI tract, sleep problems and medication sensitivity) in their children with ASD compared to typical siblings. Researchers continue to try to define the differences in physiology between these children and those who are normally developing.
There is an abundance of information available from the internet directed to parents of children with ASD. Much of it is written and supported by professionals with many credentials after their names, but the quality of the information can range from strong and evidence-based to treatment that may be unsafe or driven by financial gain of individuals or companies. Because parents observe symptoms in their children with ASD that appear to relate to different body systems in addition to the brain, the use of alternative and complementary medical treatments by parents for their children with ASD is common.
A proven or evidence-based medical or “biological” treatment is a substance given to alleviate a known symptom for which there is a proven biological cause. This implies there is an expected result due to a proven effect on a known target, which is most often not the case in ASD. Popular support for a biological therapy often also implies that it will improve the symptom for which it is given in every individual with ASD who has that symptom. This has never happened in ASD, probably due to the variety of causes for ASD and range of symptoms from one individual to another.
The goal of treatment is to improve core features of ASD (such as social communication, repetitive behaviors or associated symptoms like irritation). Below are some suggestions for undertaking and assessing therapies.
One intervention at a time is a good idea. If more than one treatment or intervention is started at the same time, it is impossible to know which caused improvement (or worsening) in behavior.
Only you, the parent, patient or caregiver, can decide whether the potential benefits of a particular therapy outweigh the risks.
View patient resources from the Lurie Center for Autism.
On September 21, 2024, the MGH Williams Syndrome Program Co-Directors, Dr. Barbara Pober and Dr. Robyn Thom hosted an educational afternoon for parents of children with Williams syndrome.
On June 3, 2023, more than 100 adults with Williams syndrome (WS), their caregivers, and staff from the MGH WS Program gathered at the Lurie Center for the inaugural program family event, “Navigating Adulthood.”
Grady and Keaton’s story: Leaning into the MGfC community helps twins with autism become their best selves
Though the term "autism" first appeared around 1911, very little was known or medically researched about autism spectrum disorder until the late 20th century. New discoveries and advancements continue to be made today to help individuals on the spectrum achieve their full potential.
There is much to learn about decision-making options and protections for a child who has a developmental and/or intellectual disability when they are approaching 18. Learn about the different types and paths to guardianship in Massachusetts and how to prepare for it.
Guardianship basics
