Common Heart Drug Might Lower Anxiety in Kids With Autism
Could a long-standing blood pressure medication from the 1960s potentially relieve anxiety in individuals with autism?
Heart medication could reduce anxiety in children with autism
Could a blood pressure drug that’s been around since the 1960s help ease anxiety in people with autism?
That’s the main finding from a small study where 69 people between the ages of 7 and 24 who had autism were given the drug, called propranolol.
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“The findings show that propranolol could serve as a helpful intervention for reducing anxiety for individuals with autism,” said study lead author Dr. David Beversdorf, a clinician at the University of Missouri’s Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment.
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“This drug has been around since the 1960s and is very inexpensive,” he noted in a university news release. “Up until now, we haven’t had any known drugs that target psychiatric issues specifically for individuals with autism, so these results are very promising and can support future research.”
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The study found that people who received propranolol had significantly lower anxiety levels at their three-month checkup.
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Although the team also checked participants’ social communication skills, no benefits linked to the use of propranolol were found.
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Beversdorf said he’s seen firsthand the benefits of propranolol for people with autism who battle anxiety.
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“As researchers, we try our best to improve the lives of our patients, and it feels rewarding to help out,” said Beversdorf, who is also a professor of radiology, neurology, and psychological sciences at the university. “I went into the field of neurology knowing I wanted to try to find new treatment options and interventions to benefit people with autism.”
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The study was published recently in the journal Psychopharmacology.
More information
Find out more about autism at the National Autism Society.
Q&A: Can Propranolol be Used to Treat Anxiety in Autism?
Q: What is propranolol?
A: Propranolol is a blood pressure medication that has been available since the 1960s. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and prevent heart attacks.
Q: How does propranolol help with anxiety in individuals with autism?
A: While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, propranolol works by blocking the effects of adrenaline, a hormone that triggers the body’s stress response. By reducing the body’s physical response to anxiety, it can help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety in individuals with autism.
Q: Are there any side effects of propranolol?
A: Like any medication, propranolol may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, and low blood pressure. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
Q: Can propranolol improve social communication skills in individuals with autism?
A: The study mentioned in this article did not find any benefits of propranolol on social communication skills in individuals with autism. However, further research is needed to explore this topic.
Q: Is propranolol a long-term solution for anxiety in individuals with autism?
A: Propranolol may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety in individuals with autism. It is important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment options for each individual’s unique needs.
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