Secretin for the treatment of autism.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the role of secretin in the treatment of children with autism.


METHODS
Literature was assessed through MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS (November 1998-August 2001), and the World Wide Web. Literature included scientific studies, anecdotal reports, and meeting abstracts. Key search terms included autism and secretin.


RESULTS
Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder. Although several treatments exist, no cure has been identified. New information suggests that secretin may be beneficial for this disorder. A critical evaluation of current information about the use of secretin in autism was conducted.


CONCLUSIONS
Currently, several anecdotal reports and a few controlled trials with conflicting results have been published regarding the use of secretin in autism. Further studies should be conducted to determine the safety and efficacy of secretin for autism.
McQueen
Joanna M
JM
Ambulatory Services, University Hospital, Health Alliance, Cincinnati, OH, USA. mcqueejm@healthall.com
Heck
Amy M
AM
D000293:Adolescent; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D016206:Databases, Bibliographic; D006801:Humans; D012633:Secretin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D012633:Secretin