Risperidone Use in Children with Autism Carries Heavy Risks

Published April 28, 2014 in Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative

Risperidone, the first drug approved for children with autism and the most widely used, improves some childrens behavior but can have severe side effects, suggests an informal analysis of the drugs use. These side effects can include weight gain, drowsiness, hormonal changes and, in rare cases, involuntary movements.