The Verdict on Alternative Autism Therapies: A Call for Better Evidence

In a groundbreaking effort to assess alternative therapies for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), an international team of researchers has undertaken an extensive review, revealing a striking scarcity of robust evidence supporting the effectiveness of these treatments. This review, a collaboration between Paris Nanterre University, Paris Cité University, and the University of Southampton, provides a critical analysis published in Nature Human Behaviour.

Evaluated Treatments and Their Questionable Efficacy

The study analyzed 248 meta-analyses, synthesizing data from 200 clinical trials and involving over 10,000 participants. The therapies examined range from probiotics and acupuncture to music therapy, animal-assisted therapies, herbal medicine, and Vitamin D supplementation. Despite the popularity of these complementary, alternative, and integrative medicines (CAIMs)—used by up to 90% of autistic individuals—there is no compelling evidence supporting their effectiveness. The majority of these treatments are supported only by weak or low-quality evidence, questioning their reliability.

Overlooked Safety Concerns

Another critical finding of the review is the lack of safety evaluations for these therapies. Less than half of the treatments reviewed had undergone assessments for safety measures, such as acceptability, tolerability, or potential adverse effects. This gap in safety evaluations raises concerns, especially given the vulnerability of autistic individuals who might be exposed to these interventions.

The Importance of Comprehensive Evidence

Professor Samuele Cortese, a senior author of the study, highlights the importance of synthesizing evidence beyond individual studies. The umbrella review methodology used in this research aggregates findings from multiple meta-analyses, offering a comprehensive view of available evidence rather than relying on potentially misleading single studies.

A New Tool for Public Education

To bridge the knowledge gap, the researchers have developed an online platform designed to aid public and practitioner understanding of scientific evidence behind various CAIMs. This platform serves as a valuable resource for autistic individuals and their caregivers, aiming to guide them in making informed decisions based on the most dependable evidence.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

This extensive review has significant implications for autism treatment. By urging caution in adopting alternative therapies, the study highlights the pressing need for rigorous evidence and safety assessments. It emphasizes the necessity of consulting comprehensive reviews rather than isolated studies when considering treatment options. Most importantly, the newly introduced online platform promises to be an essential tool in educating the public about the efficacy and safety of alternative autism therapies.

This enlightening research underscores the call for evidence-based practices in autism treatment, promoting better-informed decisions for this vulnerable community.