Medications used for relief of targeted irritability in ASD include which option?

• A. Risperidone
• B. Risperidone and Apipirazole
• C. Aripiprazole
• D. Quetiapine

Answer: (B)

Targeted irritability in ASD is often treated with atypical antipsychotics that have strong evidence in this population. Risperidone and aripiprazole are the two medications with approved use for irritability in children with autism, and they’re the best choice because they specifically address aggressive outbursts, self-injury, and severe temper tantrums that can accompany ASD. They work by modulating dopamine and serotonin pathways, which helps dampen impulsive and aggressive behaviors without addressing core social-communication deficits directly. When using these medications, start at a low dose and titrate slowly, and monitor for side effects such as weight gain and metabolic changes, sedation, and movement-related symptoms. Quetiapine does not have the same level of evidence or formal approval for ASD irritability, which is why it’s not the preferred option here.