MEDICATIONS There are no medications which can provide a ‘cure’ for autism. There are also no medications to directly aid the receptive and expressive language skills, typically seen in children diagnosed with autism. However, there is evidence to suggest that medications which are used to treat other disorders, which may present with similar behavioural symptoms, can be effective in managing some of the behavioural symptoms of autism (http://health.discovery.com/centers/mental/autism/autism.html). Antidepressants, stimulants, and antipsychotics are currently being prescribed, with variable outcomes ( http://www.vitacost.com/science/hn/Concern/Autism.htm). Some researchers believe that autism has similar aetiologies to anxiety and depression; malfunctioning of the neurotransmitter, serotonin. Therefore, medications such as Prozac, Zoloft and Luvox, which are used to treat anxiety and depression, may be trialled to treat symptoms of autism. More research is needed before results are conclusive (http://health.discovery.com/centers/mental/autism/autism.html). A symptom in autism, which medications are sometimes used to treat, is repetitive behaviours. Similar behaviours can also be seen in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Therefore, it has been hypothesised by some, that medications used to treat OCD will also be effective in treating the repetitive behaviours in autism. Medications such as Anafranil are being trialled (http://health.discovery.com/centers/mental/autism/autism.html). Tranquilisers are sometimes prescribed for people with autism in order to temporarily reduce agitation, aggression, and repetitive behaviours. However, it has been suggested that these should only be used in extreme cases and with caution, due to the serious effects associated with their use (http://health.discovery.com/centers/mental/autism/autism.html). Studies are also being done on administration of Vitamin B6 for children with autism. (http://health.discovery.com/centers/mental/autism/autism.html). It is predicted it may increase their brain activity. One study by Rimland (1991) went as far to say that “vitamin B6 is better supported by research than drug treatment is in dealing with autism”. However, overall clinical studies of vitamin B have been inconclusive and further research is needed (Nye & Bryce, 2002). EFFICACY OF MEDICATIONS All evidence found on medications was rated as level III to level IV on the evidence table (Refer to Evidence Table) . Studies with higher levels of evidence, all rejected any hypothesis that the particular medications had significant effect on the child with autism’s communication. All medications and vitamins used to treat autism are still in primary stages of research. Any pharmaceutical treatments for autism should only be administered when prescribed by the individual’s doctor.