There are 10 major classes of medications that have been used to treat children who display learning or behavioral disorders associated with autism, Tourette syndrome, or pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). These include stimulant medications, antidepressants, antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, antihistamines, narcotic antagonists, beta blockers, and serotonin antagonists. It has been estimated that between 15% and 20% of children in special education may be receiving one or more of these drugs. This article discusses the potential uses of psychopharmarcologic therapy with children or adolescents who are diagnosed with autism, Tourette syndrome, or PDD and who display learning, emotional, or behavioral disorders. It explores the possible benefits and known negative side effects associated with such treatment.
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