A Treatment Worth Mentioning for Autism. We've Got It Covered

First things first:
The diagnosis of Autism is best managed by a team of professionals often including psychologists, neurologists, speech therapists, primary care physicians, and other professionals with a knowledge of it's effects. Autism is a complex disorder that affects children, and the prevalence seems to be steadily increasing. 

There are many theories as to why this is happening in our pediatric population, but one such theory and an area of long-term research indicates a link to opioid-excess (beta-endorphins).  This can often be realized in young patients that seem to have a high tolerance to pain, less interaction socially, repetitive behaviors, and even some unusual behaviors such as walking regularly on the toes.  These children also may demonstrate poking of body parts, skin picking, self-biting, punching and slapping the head, lip chewing, removal of hair, along with other things.  Many of these behaviors are repetitive and the child is not aware that they are even doing so.   Opioid excess is an interesting connection because researchers have gone so far as to treat young animals with pain pills (containing opioids) and they exhibit similar behaviors as autistic children.  Interesting huh?  

Today's blog is to present an awareness about this opioid-excess connection in Autism, and also to introduce a treatment that is making a significant impact in the lives of those with Autism.  As I did my research and reading, I couldn't help but think of all of the parents that simply don't know about this therapy option.  And by the way, it's very affordable whether covered by insurance or not and we provide it to many patients in our care.

Naltrexone is a medication that is used to halt the effects of opioids and has been used for many years (since the 70's actually) in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction.  The typical dosing usually requires 50mg-150mg per day to block the drug response of heroin or morphine and even alcohol.  For young patients with Autism however,  a LOW dose naltrexone is used and must be formulated in a custom lab in very small dosages.  Remember, the same principle and mechanism of action is desired in patients with Autism because they tend to have opioid-excess.  In other words, the medication halts the effects of the high endorphins.  The dose needed, however, is much, much lower than in the case of opioid addictions.  In fact, a fraction of what the prescription strength naltrexone provides. 

Various case studies exist for this treatment in patients with Autism and many include an introduction of the therapy, withdrawal, and re-introduction.  Many parents realized that while on the low dose naltrexone, their children exhibited fewer of these behaviors, engaged more socially, and didn't inflict self-harm as much as when not on the medication.  The low dose naltrexone had a positive impact on behavioral problems, seizures, impulsivity, and hyperactivity which are some of the main symptoms of Autism. A help to the child and a help to the parent, right?  Now that's a win-win!

Many children with Autism are treated with the classic regimen of mood altering/stabilizing agents with no knowledge that this low-dose naltrexone (LDN) treatment even exists.   If Autism affects your life in some way whether through a direct family member, a friend, or perhaps an acquaintance, please feel free to pass this information along.  And even more importantly, please take some time, personally, to read about low dose naltrexone and it's place in the treatment of Autism. I think Low Dose Naltrexone is a treatment that we are going to see more of in the future for this and other diseases such as Cancer, Crohn's, Multiple Sclerosis, and more. 

As always, please call us if we can help you in navigating treatment options for your concerns and conditions.  The Custom Compounding Center has been creating unique and effective therapies for almost 15 years now.  Wow, time flys!  Our professional staff is dedicated to working with you on whatever ails you.  I feel confident that we can help you in some way.  Give us a call