Search Here

Poor stomach absorption could lower the effectiveness of autism medications, according to a new study.

Previous studies reveal that many autistic children and adults suffer gastrointestinal symptoms that could potentially influence the absorption and availability of medications.

The findings are important because around 35 percent of autistic patients take at least one psychotropic medication to help control their symptoms. Researchers are now calling for more research into the potential relationship between gastrointestinal symptoms and the success of autism medications.

If gastrointestinal symptoms do limit medication effectiveness, other methods of drug administration are needed to boost successful therapy rates.

"Admittedly, there are a number of variables that can influence medication response but given how common gastrointestinal issues are for those with autism, it seems the relationship should be examined more closely," senior author Dr. Maria Valdovinos, said in a news release.

The findings are published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.