Alternative Autism Therapies: A Scientific Review
- A extensive review of research into complementary, alternative, and integrative medicines (CAIMs) for autism spectrum disorder reveals a lack of robust evidence for their effectiveness and highlights concerns...
- Researchers from Paris Nanterre University, Paris Cité University, and the university of Southampton conducted an umbrella review of 248 meta-analyses.
- The study evaluated 19 different types of CAIMs commonly used to address symptoms associated with autism.
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No strong Evidence Supports Complementary and Option Medicine for Autism, Review Finds
Table of Contents
A extensive review of research into complementary, alternative, and integrative medicines (CAIMs) for autism spectrum disorder reveals a lack of robust evidence for their effectiveness and highlights concerns about safety evaluations. The study,published in Nature Human Behavior,analyzed data from over 10,000 participants across 200 clinical trials.
Last updated: 2024-01-03 02:19:55 PST
Key Findings
Researchers from Paris Nanterre University, Paris Cité University, and the university of Southampton conducted an umbrella review of 248 meta-analyses. Their analysis found no compelling evidence that CAIMs considerably improve outcomes for individuals with autism. Furthermore, the review revealed a importent gap in safety research, with many treatments lacking proper evaluation for potential risks.
Treatments examined
The study evaluated 19 different types of CAIMs commonly used to address symptoms associated with autism. These included:
- Animal-assisted therapies
- Acupuncture
- Herbal medicine
- Music therapy
- Probiotics
- Vitamin D supplementation
The researchers systematically assessed the available evidence for each intervention, focusing on the quality and rigor of the underlying research.
Why Are These Treatments Widely Used?
Despite the lack of strong scientific evidence, caims remain popular among families affected by autism. This is ofen due to a desire for alternative approaches, perceived limitations of conventional treatments, and anecdotal reports of positive effects. The researchers emphasize the importance of evidence-based decision-making and caution against relying on unproven therapies.
The EBIACT Database
To address the challenge of navigating the complex landscape of CAIM research, the research team created the Evidence-Based Interventions for Autism – Comprehensive Treatment database (EBIACT database). This online platform provides a user-kind interface for exploring the scientific evidence behind different CAIMs,allowing individuals and families to make informed decisions.
Study Details and Funding
the study Complementary, alternative and integrative medicine for autism: an umbrella review and online platform is published in Nature Human Behaviour and is available online.
The research was funded by Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR).