Risperidone in Adults with Autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Preliminary evidence is presented for the possible clinical value of risperidone in the treatment of 3 adults with autistic disorder or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, Two males (ages 20 and 31 years) with autistic disorder and one female (age 44 years) with pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified showed significant improvement in social relatedness, repetitive thoughts and behavior, and impulsive aggression with risperidone treatment (2-8 mg daily), Clinical improvement has been maintained for a minimum of 1 year in all 3 cases, These findings are consistent with previous evidence suggesting that serotonin and dopamine neurotransmission may be relevant to the treatment and possibly the pathophysiology of some symptoms of pervasive developmental disorders.