Drug May Improve Language in Autism
(From ASHA Leader, Nov. 22, 2011) A drug used to treat high blood pressure shows promise in treating language and social functions in people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Researchers tested the letter and category word fluency of 14 adolescent and adult participants with high-functioning ASD in two separate sessions- one after participants received propanolol and one after receiving a placebo. Participants performed significantly better on the tests after taking the medication. Propanolol reduces stress-related effects of norepinephrine, allowing the brain to function as if there is no stress and acting on the brain processes that hinder language and communication. Search “propanolol” at http://journals.lww.com/cogbehavneurol/pages/default.aspx.
