The Therapeutic Management of Autism Spectrum Disorders: Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study of Prescriptors in Morocco

Abstract

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) represents a developmental disorder that affect verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction and daily activities. Aims: The purpose of this study is to identify different treatment prescribed for individuals with ASD and to evaluate the efficiency of pharmacotherapy and behavioral management in autistic patients from Morocco. Methods and Procedures: Our survey included 72 health professionals, 50 of whom were drug prescribers and 22 non- prescribers. Outcomes and Results: 68% of the prescriber professionals prescribe drugs for autism and 65% of these are off label. The most prescribed therapeutic classes are antipsychotics (76%). 56% of prescriber professionals noticed an improvement in the quality of life of children following prescription medication. Moreover, 92% of the professionals prescribe drugs for autism-associated conditions; antiepileptic drugs are the most prescribed (65%). In addition, 26% of prescribing physicians and 28% of non-prescribers associate a diet with the management of ASD. According to them, the improvement in the quality of life of children with autism following the combination of a diet is 20% and 76% respectively. On the other hand, 58% of prescribers and all non-prescriber professionals have shown that the behavioral management method is the most satisfactory method. Conclusion: These data highlight the high rate of drug prescription for autism disorder in Morocco and despite non FDA-approved uses, the improvement in the quality of life is considerable. Also, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provide successful treatment and optimize outcome.