Bristol-Myers Squibb autism drug approved by the FDA

Bristol-Myers Squibb has announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has lent its approval to the autism therapy ABILIFY (aripiprazole).

The treatment has been indicated for use in paediatric patients between the ages of six and 17 to curb symptoms such as aggression towards others, deliberate self-injury, temper tantrums and rapid mood swings.

As yet, there is no evidence to indicate how long individuals should be treated with the drug, but it is advised that patients should be assessed periodically.

Adverse effects observed from the use of the therapy in paediatric patients include fatigue, vomiting, pyrexia, drooling and decreased appetite.

Bristol-Myers Squibb and Otsuka Pharmaceutical have collaborated to develop and commercialise ABILIFY in Europe.

Earlier this month, Bristol-Myers Squibb signed an agreement with Alder Biopharmaceuticals for the development and commercialisation of ALD518 – a novel biologic that is undergoing testing as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.