Abilify Approved For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMS) got some good news this weekend when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its top-selling Abilify to treat children for autism-related irritability.
BMS and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. of Tokyo are collaborators in both the development and distribution of Abilify in the U.S. and Europe, reports Business Week.
Abilify is given to children, ages six through 17 to treat aggression toward others, self-injury, moodiness and temper tantrums associated with autism. The companies say the drug should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan including psychological counseling, education and socialization.
An article in the December 2009 Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says any medication should be accompanied by a structured training program for parents to reduce serious behavioral problems in autistic children.
posted by kevin at 6:16 PM
