Autism, commonly referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Autistic Disorder, is a lifelong condition that impacts how an individual will engage with others, communicate, and navigate their environment. Each child, teen, or adult with autism has a unique combination of strengths and challenges. Families are often doing their best with the available therapies, school support, and dedication to the cause, but many families also have a desire for safe medical treatments to attempt to improve some of the more challenging struggles that relate to autism, such as social challenges or repetitive behavior.
Right now, doctors and scientists are exploring more than 20 possible medicines for autism. These medicines are not about “fixing” who a person is. Instead, the goal is to gently reduce the symptoms that make daily life more difficult, while respecting each person’s individuality.
Who’s Working on This?
Many research teams and companies across the world are involved. Some well-known ones include: Hoffmann-La Roche, Eli Lilly, AbbVie, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Yamo Pharmaceuticals, Scioto Biosciences, and Axial Therapeutics.
These groups are testing different ideas. For example:
- Yamo Pharma’s L1-79 showed encouraging results in a study with teenagers and young adults, improving social skills without major side effects.
- AJA001, a plant-based medicine, was cleared by the FDA to move into the next phase of testing in 2025.
- SCI-210, a cannabis-derived treatment, is being tested in Israel for children.
JAG201 is a gene therapy that is looking at the rare genetic forms of autism related to the SHANK3 gene. Other medications include SB-121, RO6953958, JZP541, AB-2004, Tasimelteon, and Cariprazine.
How Do These Medications Work?
The treatment types vary here—medications can be in the form of pills or a liquid, injections just under the skin, IV medications—right into the blood, or possibly gene therapy to correct the faulty gene. Medications can either be traditional medications or use newer science such as proteins, antibodies, and genetic therapies.
Why This Matters:
Families affected by autism most often seek tools to assist them. While behavioral therapies and educational therapies are still extremely important, medication could help out when some of the symptoms are so intense that they are impacting their quality of life. For example, this may help a child navigate social events a bit more easily, or even have a good night’s sleep, or reduce a list of repetitive behaviors that truly allow them to enjoy life a bit more.
As autism awareness continues to bring a bigger picture globally, we see research, funding, families, scientists, and, of course, hopefully, autistic individuals are given a greater voice in the community of research.
The Challenges
It’s important to note that not every medication that scientists are looking at will work. Also, some may have side effects. In other words, the medications listed will be studied and are not yet available to families.
Patience and vigilance at this stage is essential. At least the bright side is that currently, there is more research going on than ever before. Every study brings more understanding around autism and subsequently helps autistic individuals to feel more included. Families are not alone—there is a growing community of scientists, doctors, and advocates working toward kinder, safer, and more effective treatments.
Stay Connected
For more updates on new autism treatments and research, keep in touch with us. And if you or a loved one needs therapy support, educational resources, or guidance, reach out to Nevada Autism. We’re here for you every step of the way.
