Endogenous opioids and opiate antagonists in autism: brief review of empirical findings and implications for clinicians

Abstract

Endogenous opioid dysfunction hypotheses for the development of autism are reviewed, along with clinical empirical studies of opiate antagonists in autism and self-injurious behaviour. There is not yet sufficient evidence to suggest the use of opiate antagonists in the treatment of autism. Further research, particularly of natrexone in severe self-injury, is warranted.