A new drug may become available for people with autism to help stimulate social and communication skills, and to mitigate repetitive behaviours and restricted interests. It?s likely several years down the road in North America, but if it comes to market, balovaptan will be the first medication targeting these ASD symptoms.
The U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA) just designated balovaptan as a ?breakthrough,? to speed research. Preliminary results have been based on a study of male adults with moderate to severe autism. Participants showed some improvement in socialization and communication and tolerated the drug well. Swiss drug company Roche is now beginning to test its effects on children.
?Individuals with autism live with a significant burden due to social impairments and, potentially, other difficulties. These include psychiatric disorders and cognitive deficits, in particular executive dysfunction [such as problems controlling emotions and getting fixated on one idea],? says Robert Wisner-Carlson, a psychiatrist with Sheppard Pratt Health System in Baltimore, MD.
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