Evidence Based Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Treatment for Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have evolved with the refined definition of ASD, identification of common co-morbidities, availability of ASD measurements and genetic typing. Despite this progress, existing challenges persist regarding the quality and clinical relevance of various interventions. Only two drugs have been FDA approved for ASD, namely Aripiprazole and Risperidone, both of which are prescribed for the management of irritability, which is considered a co-morbidity, lying outside of ASD core symptoms. Likewise, in many other parts of the world, the majority of medications prescribed for individuals with ASD target associated challenges such as irritability, aggression, hyperactivity, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders, while the core symptoms of ASD (deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviors) remain largely unaddressed by existing pharmacotherapy. Critical appraisal of these treatments is needed, considering the quality of evidence, and their ability to address ASD’s core symptoms and diverse comorbidities in meaningful ways. Recent interest in folate supplements enhancing speech production and acetaminophen use in pregnancy contributing to development of ASD also deserves review.This Research Topic aims to evaluate the treatment available for ASD by assessing the strength and quality of supporting evidence. The primary objective is to distinguish therapies with robust, reproducible benefits from those where evidence is equivocal, limited, or potentially problematic in balancing efficacy against risk. We also seek to clarify the landscape shaped by evolving definitions of ASD, the robust identification of comorbidities, and the application of more precise measurement tools and genetic insights. Through this process, we hope to inform clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders about where consensus exists, where uncertainties remain, and what areas demand further rigorous investigation.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for ASD, with a particular focus on critical assessment of evidence quality and clinical applicability. Articles should address the boundaries of ASD treatment efficacy, considering both core symptoms and a spectrum of comorbidities, and highlight innovative approaches in precision medicine. We welcome all article types accepted by the journal addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:• Quality appraisal of ASD treatment research, comparing randomized clinical trials, open-label studies, and single trials• Defining ASD heterogeneity, core symptoms, comorbidities, and clinical measurement standards• Comparative evidence for interventions targeting core symptoms: socialization, repetitive behaviors, and speech• Assessment of treatments for comorbid presentations in ASD, such as ADHD, irritability, aggression, OCD, depression, and sleep disturbances• Precision medicine approaches, including treatment strategies for specific genetic or biological profiles in ASD• Reviews of recent studies with “good” and “maybe” evidence, and critical analysis of controversial findings (e.g. folate improving ASD symptoms) Topic editors: Deborah Sokol, Lori-Ann Rosalind Sacrey, David Dunn, Alessandro Capuano Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78872/evidence-based-treatments-for-autism-spectrum-disorders