Oxytocin for Autism Spectrum Disorder — Down, but Not Out

Autism spectrum disorder, a common neurodevelopmental disorder with onset in infancy, is characterized by deficits in social functioning and by repetitive–restrictive behaviors, such as repeated body movements, circumscribed interests, or resistance to change in routines. Pharmacologic interventions are limited to the treatment of symptoms, which does not target social deficits. Although behavioral treatments have been effective in improving social and educational outcomes in some persons with autism spectrum disorder, there remains a need for the development of drugs that improve social functioning. The potential of the neuropeptide oxytocin as a "pro-social" hormone has gained attention for the treatment of autism . . .