Immunoregulatory and/or Anti-inflammatory Agents for the Management of Core and Associated Symptoms in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Narrative Review of Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trials

AbstractAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition with a so far poorly understood underlying pathogenesis,  and few effective therapies for core symptoms. Accumulating evidence supports an association between ASD and immune/inflammatory processes, arising as a possible pathway for new drug intervention. However, current literature on the efficacy of immunoregulatory/anti-inflammatory interventions on AS D symptoms is still limited. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize and discuss the latest evidence on the use of immunoregulatory and/or anti-inflammatory agents for the management of this condition. During the last 10 years, several randomized, placebo-controlled trials on the effective ness of (add-on) treatment with prednisolone, pregnenolone, celecoxib, minocycline,N-acetylcysteine (NAC), sulforaphane (SFN), and/or omega-3 fatty acids have been performed. Overall, a beneficial effect of prednisolone, pregnenolone, celecoxib, and/or omega-3 fatty acids on several  core symptoms, such asstereotyped behavior, was found. (Add-on) treatment with prednisolone, pregnenolone, celecoxib, minocycline, NAC, SFN, and/or omega-3 fatty acids was also associated with a significantly higher improvement in other symptoms,  such as irritability,hyperactivity, and/orlethargywhen compared with placebo. The mechanisms by which these agents exert their action and improve symptoms of ASD are not fully understood. Interestingly, studies have sug...
Source: CNS Drugs - Category: Neurology Source Type: research