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In a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial 23 autistic children, aged 3–7
years, were treated with a mean daily dosage of 1 mg/kg naltrexone for 4 weeks. Drug
effects were monitored with behavior checklists rated by parents and teachers, and
ethological playroom observations. On average, parents' checklists and playroom data
could not differentiate between naltrexone treatment and placebo treatment; however,
teachers significantly favored naltrexone treatment. They reported a decrease in hyperactivity
and irritability. No effects of naltrexone on social and stereotypic behavior could
be demonstrated.
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Article info
Publication history
Received in revised form:
April 24,
1995
Received:
November 21,
1994
Identification
Copyright
© 1996 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc.
