How is autism best treated?
Disease description:
My aunt’s grandson is five years old. For over a year, he has consistently avoided interacting with others and has become increasingly withdrawn. We suspect he may have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xie Zixing
For mild autism, medication is generally not recommended initially; instead, behavioral therapy and psychological counseling—under the guidance of a qualified physician—are advised as first-line interventions. In more severe cases, if behavioral and psychological therapies alone yield insufficient improvement, antidepressant medications—such as fluoxetine or sertraline—may be prescribed under the supervision of a physician at a reputable hospital to enhance treatment efficacy.
