PHARMACEUTICAL CARE IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE FOR CHILDREN AGED 5 TO 10 YEARS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) IN THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM (SUS): MEDICATION MONITORING PRACTICES, HEALTH EDUCATION, AND FAMILY SUPPORT

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized as a neurodevelopmental condition that requires comprehensive, continuous, and interdisciplinary care, especially within the scope of Primary Health Care (PHC), which serves as the main entry point to Brazil’s Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS). In this context, pharmaceutical care plays a strategic role in monitoring pharmacotherapy, promoting the safe and rational use of medications, and supporting the families of children with ASD, particularly those aged 5 to 10 years. The present study aimed to analyze the importance of pharmaceutical care in PHC directed toward children with ASD within the SUS, with an emphasis on pharmacotherapeutic follow-up practices, health education, and family support. This is an integrative literature review conducted through searches in the SciELO and Google Scholar databases, as well as in official documents from the Ministry of Health, covering the period from 2015 to 2025. Ten articles and three official documents were included, addressing the role of the pharmacist, the use of psychotropic medications, comprehensive care, and multiprofessional collaboration. The results showed that pharmacists contribute significantly to treatment adherence, the identification and management of adverse reactions, guidance for caregivers, and the reduction of risks associated with medication use, in addition to playing an important role in addressing stigmatization related to ASD. It is concluded that strengthening pharmaceutical care in PHC is essential to improving the quality of care provided to children with ASD, promoting inclusion, ensuring rights, and offering effective support to families throughout the care process.