Psychopharmacological management of obsessive–compulsive behaviour in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders: a narrative review

Abstract

In children and adolescents, autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and obsessive–compulsive disorders (OCD) may share similar features, such as deficits in social communication, repetitive behaviours and presence of obsession and compulsion. Studies have shown that children with OCD may exhibit the presence of ASD traits. Up to date research shows that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are commonly used to treat OCD, while treatment options for ASD are limited. A literature search was performed using the PubMed database and retrieving relevant papers up to December 2022. This review includes 9 case reports and 8 randomized controlled trials. The main psychopharmacological drugs used include antidepressants and antipsychotics. This review shows that the management of OCD behaviours in individuals with ASD and related conditions is of complex nature and pharmacological interventions may not be an effective method in managing this group of patients. Hence, more comprehensive research and deeper knowledge is important in optimizing pharmacological management for patients with OCD behaviours with underlying ASD.