Psychiatric comorbidity and medication use in autism: a community survey

Aims and Method Individuals with autism often have complex needs. In this paper, we attempt to establish the prevalence rates of other major psychiatric illnesses in learning disabled adults diagnosed with autism and analyse the use of medication in these individuals. A total of 571 clients with learning disability were screened for autistic spectrum disorder, identifying 164 individuals for study. Psychiatric and medical diagnoses were also reviewed. Results Of the individuals with autism, 35% had another comorbid psychiatric disorder. An overall prevalence rate of 10% for hypothyroidism was also identified and 35% of people with autism and no other psychiatric diagnosis were on neuroleptics. Clinical Implications Planning of services for autism will have to take into account the high comorbidity of autism and other psychiatric conditions. Individuals with autism will also benefit from close monitoring of mental state and the development of hypothyroidism.