The Other Autism Adverse Drug Reactions in Autism
Jan 30, 2023
Discover the fascinating link between genetics and how autistic individuals react to medications. Learn why some people metabolize drugs ultra-rapidly while others are very slow metabolizers. The discussion includes the reality of medication sensitivity and its implications, debunking the myth of hypochondria. Dive into specific reactions to psychotropic drugs and how mast cell activation syndrome can complicate medication use. It's a compelling exploration of pharmacogenomics and its significance in the autistic community.
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Pharmacogenomics and Autism Reactions
- Many autistic people experience adverse or unexpected reactions to medications due to pharmacogenomic differences.
- Genetic variants affect how quickly or slowly medications are metabolized, explaining drug sensitivity or lack of response.
Personal Mast Cell Activation Experience
- Kristen Hovitt shares her experience with mast cell activation syndrome causing severe reactions to salicylates.
- These reactions are serious and require avoidance and medication management, highlighting complex co-occurring conditions with autism.
Variable Drug Metabolism
- Kristen processes some drugs extremely slowly and others very quickly, showing no middle ground in medication effects.
- This variable drug metabolism makes medication response unpredictable and challenging for autistic individuals.
