Divalproex sodium vs placebo for the treatment of irritability in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.

ABSTRACT: Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social and language deficits and by repetitive behaviors and interests. Irritability/aggression is a significant comorbid symptom in this population, which greatly impacts burden of care. This study examined the effect of divalproex sodium for irritability/aggression in children and adolescents with ASD. This was a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. All efficacy measures were obtained by an independent evaluator blinded to randomization condition and side effects. A total of 55 subjects gavetheir consent and 27 were randomized in a 1 : 1 manner (mean age 9.46+/-2.46, mean nonverbal IQ 63.3+/-23.9). Two subjects from the active group and one subject from the placebo group discontinued

SUBMITTER: Hollander E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2846602 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature