In a recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, a common anti-diarrhea drug and two common hormonal contraceptives were identified as potential candidates to treat the most common symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The researchers observed that loperamide and contraceptives like progesterone and progestin drospirenone can treat the most common ASD symptoms, such as difficulty in social interactions and communication. The fourth drug, bromocriptine, is commonly used for diseases like Parkinson’s.

Dr. Elise Koch of the University of Oslo, the lead author of the study, stated that there are no medications currently approved for the treatment of social communication deficits, the main symptom of ASD. She noted that most patients with ASD are treated with antipsychotic drugs, which have serious side effects or lack efficacy. She further added that to identify potential drugs for repurposing to effectively treat ASD core symptoms, her team studied the ASD risk genes within networks of protein-protein interactions of gene products.

According to the findings of the study, the deficiency of estrogen in the womb or higher testosterone exposure was linked to ASD. On the other hand, comparing the effect of bromocriptine on ASD with the dopamine D2 receptor antagonist amisulpride, an approved drug used to treat schizophrenia in several countries, it was observed that both drugs had beneficial effects on ASD, with bromocriptine showing predominantly reductions in motor hyperactivity and attention symptoms. Amisulpride has been approved for treating schizophrenia in several countries. 

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/diarrhoea-drug-2-hormonal-contraceptives-may-help-treat-core-autism-symptoms-norway-study-finds/1125436/ )