PHARMACEUTICAL CARE FOR AUTISTIC PATIENTS IN THE HOSPITAL UNIT

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by behavioral difficulties such as hyperactivity, difficulty maintaining attention and focus, aggressive behavior, self-destructive behavior, impulsivity, and sensory issues. This includes restricted tendencies and patterned and repetitive behaviors. The symptoms and comorbidities associated with ASD vary in severity and can appear from the first months of life until old age, causing impairments in the individual's development and daily functioning. The therapeutic strategy includes psychosocial, educational, and pharmacological interventions. Pharmaceutical care plays an essential role in initial care, including the pharmacological approach, monitoring, and patient follow-up. Considering that the use of medications does not affect autism itself, but rather the symptoms associated with the condition, various drugs have been frequently used in clinical practice to control aggression, agitation, impulsivity, and other symptoms. Objective: The overall objective of this study is to identify how pharmacists can contribute to the effective care of autistic children during hospitalization. Methodology: The methodology used was a bibliographic review of the literature, based on data from 2020 to 2023. Conclusion: The effectiveness of interdisciplinary consulting is evidenced by the detailed analysis of the complexities of neurodevelopmental disorders in the social, psychiatric, and environmental contexts, which allows for the development of personalized treatment strategies to meet the complex needs of children with ASD.