title: Medical management of autism.
abstract: The primary care physician should be knowledgeable about the medical issues that children with ASD encounter and also be aware of available treatment options. Included among these are: identification of seizures, treatment of sleep problems, aggressive management of chronic constipation and GERD as well as timely referral for preventive dental care. Due to the scarcity of sub-specialists (Pediatric Neurologist, Developmental Pediatrician, Child Psychiatrist/ Psychologist) managing children with ASD, the primary care physician should likewise be familiar with medication options for challenging behaviors. More importantly, there needs to be a close collaboration and communication between the family, the sub-specialist and the child's primary care physician.
authors.affiliation: Melmed Center, 5020 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, USA.
authors.forename: Anna C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: De Ocampo
authors.forename: Jeannine M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Jacobs
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D016316:Guanfacine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012640:Seizures / Q000209:etiology; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D016316:Guanfacine