Review Article: The Autism Disease: Symptoms, Genomics, Causes and Pharmacological Therapy for the Behavioral associated with disease

One of the most confusing conditions is autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), for which neither a precise cause nor a conclusive cure has yet been discovered. Autism can be defined as a disorder that typically manifests in children at a young age and affects many areas of their development. It develops in an abnormal way, exhibiting an unbalanced social interaction style marked by recurring behavioral patterns and difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication. The frequency of ASDs has dramatically increased over the past few decades, inspiring numerous researchers worldwide to investigate all facets of the condition, from origin to intervention and diagnosis. This study addresses ASDs, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, modalities of therapy, and the counseling needs of Jordanian families. As one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, ASDs are characterized by stereotyped behaviors and poor social interaction. There is a significant and intricate genetic component to ASDs, with numerous patterns of familial inheritance and an estimated 1,000 potential genes. The past ten years have seen a rapid advancement in identifying the genes responsible for autism, thanks to genomic technologies. This study describes pharmaceutical treatments for the behavioral symptoms associated with ASDs in adolescents, children, and adults. The categories of symptoms include inattention and hyperactivity, social impairment, aggression, irritability, and stereotyped and repetitive behaviors. Medications covered in the list include α-2 agonists, atomoxetine, mirtazapine, memantine, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), and antipsychotics. In children with ASDs, SRIs are generally less effective and less tolerated compared to adults. The most effective medications for treating irritability in ASDs are antipsychotics, which can also help with other symptoms. While psychostimulants show promise when used to treat inattention and hyperactivity in individuals with ASDs, they are less effective and have more side effects compared to their use in individuals with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders (ADHDs). Although more research is needed, memantine and D-cycloserine appear to be beneficial in treating social impairment.