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Autism Love and Science's avatar

I am very happy that Abilify works so well for Jill's profoundly autistic son Jonathan.

And, of course, any doctor who deals with autistic patients should know about second generation, i.e., atypical, antipsychotics such as Abilify (aripiprazole) to treat aggression and self-injurious behaviors.

But for those who think they need it and haven't yet tried it, keep in mind that it can backfire in some people. For some people, it will help for 2 or 3 days and then the person ends up worse than before. And, it can damage dopamine receptors, causing uncontrollable movements, called tardive dyskinesia (TD).

So, as Jill says, start low and slow and see what happens. You can stop and start and adjust the dose.

When you need a solution, you need a solution!

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Joseph Kennedy's avatar

Very helpful and useful information. I still don't quite understand why some people refuse to try medicines that can help, and stubbornly stick to ineffective 'alternatives,' when there is so much at stake. There's nowt as queer as folk.

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Natasha Loder's avatar

Really interesting insight. Thanks

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zellie imani's avatar

This was such an interesting read. I know a few friends with young non verbal autistic sons. They aren’t destructive to this point but they are more so wanderers. It scares me.

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