What are noradrenergic agents?
Noradrenergic agents are medicines that regulate levels of a neurotransmitter called noradrenaline in the body.
Noradrenergic agents used to treat autistic people include:
- antidepressants like bupropion and reboxetine
- medicines for high blood pressure (antihypertensives) like clonidine
- medicines to improve attention like atomoxetine.
Who are noradrenergic agents for?
Noradrenergic agents are typically used for people who have anxiety, depression, ADHD or high blood pressure. Some are also used to help people who have problems with sleep or severe irritability.
What is noradrenergic therapy used for?
In autistic children, noradrenergic agents are used to reduce anxiety, depression, sleep problems, hyperactivity , impulsivity, irritability, aggression and self-injurious behaviour.
Where does noradrenergic therapy come from?
The first trials of noradrenergic agents for autistic people were conducted in the early 1990s.
What is the idea behind noradrenergic therapy for autistic people?
In our bodies, the noradrenergic system is responsible for producing, storing and releasing noradrenaline, which activates the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response when something stressful or frightening happens. If the body triggers the fight or flight response when it’s not needed, it can lead to anxiety and other issues.
Noradrenergic agents regulate the noradrenergic system. Some noradrenergic agents work by calming parts of the nervous system that control alertness and blood pressure. This can reduce hyperactivity and help with sleep. Others change noradrenaline levels in the brain, which might help with mood and anxiety.
The idea is that noradrenergic agents can therefore help to reduce anxiety, depression, sleep problems, hyperactivity, impulsivity, irritability, aggression and self-injurious behaviour in autistic people.
What does noradrenergic therapy involve?
This therapy involves taking oral medicine on a daily basis. The specific medicine and dosage depends on an individual child’s needs.
A psychiatrist or other specialist doctor should monitor the child taking these medicines. The child will need regular appointments with this specialist.
Does noradrenergic therapy help autistic children?
This therapy has not yet been rated. Some research suggests that some noradrenergic agents might help some autistic children manage anxiety, sleep problems or hyperactivity. But research is limited, and we don’t yet know which children are most likely to benefit.
Noradrenergic agents have some side effects. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation and low blood pressure. Some medicines can cause high blood pressure, headaches or agitation if they’re stopped suddenly.
Who can prescribe noradrenergic agents?
A GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist can prescribe noradrenergic agents. These professionals can also give you information about the benefits and risks of using noradrenergic agents.
Where can you find a doctor who prescribes noradrenergic agents?
Your GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist can prescribe noradrenergic agents.
You can find psychiatrists at Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists – Find a psychiatrist.
How are parents involved in noradrenergic therapy for autistic children?
If your child is taking noradrenergic agents, you need to ensure that your child takes the medicine each day. Your child’s specific medicine and dosage will depend on their needs.
You also need to watch your child for effects and side effects and take your child to regular appointments with the specialist who’s supervising the treatment.
How much do noradrenergic agents cost?
The cost of noradrenergic agents varies depending on the medicine brand and its dose or strength. It also depends on whether the medicine is covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and whether you hold a concession card like a Health Care Card.
Therapies and supports for autistic children range from behavioural therapies and developmental approaches to medicines and alternative therapies. When you understand the main types of therapies and supports for autistic children, it’ll be easier to work out the approach that will best suit your child.