The antioxidant, N-Acetylcysteine, or NAC, was found to lower irritability in children with autism as well as reduce the children’s repetitive behaviors in a small pilot study. While further, larger studies are necessary; NAC could provide promising support for addressing repetitive behavior in autism. Currently, there is no medication to treat repetitive behavior.
Irritability affects about 70% of children with autism and can hinder learning, as well as other activities and therapies. Currently, irritability, mood swings and aggression, are mostly treated with medication that can have significant side effects such as weight gain, involuntary motor movements and metabolic syndrome. The side effects of NAC are generally mild, with gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, nausea, diarrhea and decreased appetite being the most commonly experienced. Continue reading “NAC and Autism”
Read More