Spironolactone - Bradstreet et al 2006

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Med Hypotheses. 2006 Dec 4;

Spironolactone might be a desirable immunologic and hormonal

intervention in autism spectrum disorders.

* Bradstreet JJ,

* S,

* Granpeesheh D,

* El-Dahr JM,

* Rossignol D.

International Child Development Resource Center, Melbourne and

Florida Hospital, Celebration, 1688 West Hibiscus Boulevard,

Melbourne, FL 32901, United States.

Multiple studies now demonstrate that autism is medically

characterized, in part, by immune system dysregulation, including

evidence of neuroglial activation and gastrointestinal inflammation.

This neuroglial process has further been characterized as

neuroinflammation. In addition, a subset of autistic children exhibit

higher than average levels of androgens. Spironolactone is an

aldosterone antagonist and potassium-sparing diuretic with a desirable

safety profile. It possesses potent anti-inflammatory and immune

modifying properties that might make it an excellent medical

intervention for autism spectrum disorders. Furthermore,

spironolactone demonstrates substantial anti-androgen properties that

might further enhance its appeal in autism, particularly in a

definable subset of hyperandrogenic autistic children. One case report

is briefly reviewed demonstrating objective clinical improvements in

an autistic child after spironolactone administration. Additional

research in controlled trials is now needed to further define the

risks and benefits of spironolactone use in children with autism.

PMID: 17150311 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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