Ramelteon for insomnia in two youths with autistic disorder.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to report preliminary data on the effectiveness and tolerability of ramelteon for the treatment of insomnia in youth with autistic disorder (autism).


METHODS
Two youths, ages 7 and 18 years, with autism and significant insomnia characterized by problems with sleep onset and maintenance received an open-label trial of ramelteon (4-8 mg) over a duration of 16-18 weeks.


RESULTS
Target symptoms of delayed sleep onset and/or frequent nocturnal awakening improved significantly, as determined by Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) scale ratings of either "much improved" or "very much improved." Ramelteon was well tolerated. No daytime sedation was reported.


CONCLUSIONS
This case report illustrates the potential effectiveness and tolerability of ramelteon for sleep disturbances in 2 patients with autism. Further research is needed to verify its safety, tolerability, and efficacy in children and adolescents with autism.
Stigler
Kimberly A
KA
Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine and the Christian Sarkine Autism Treatment Center at the James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5200, USA. kstigler@iupui.edu
Posey
David J
DJ
McDougle
Christopher J
CJ
D000293:Adolescent; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D007192:Indenes / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology
D007192:Indenes; C495910:ramelteon