Olanzapine and Autism Ranking:

Current Research

We have identified nine scientific studies of olanzapine used to treat autistic people published in peer-reviewed journals.  The studies included more than 100 individuals, aged from six years old to adult.

• Seven of the studies (Fidoa and Al-Saadb, 2008; Hollander et al, 2006; Kemner et al, 2002; Malone et al, 2001; Potenza et al, 1999; Stavrakaki, Antochi and Emery, 2004; Tan et al. 2006) found that olanzapine was effective and well tolerated for the treatment of problems such as tantrums, aggression, or self-injurious behaviour in autistic children and/or adults, although one study (Tan et al. 2006) reported that olanzapine was only effective in the treatment of catatonia when combined with electro-convulsive therapy.
• Two studies (Hollander et al., 2006; Stavrakaki, Antochi and Emery, 2004) went further, stating that olanzapine leads to improvements in some, but not all, symptomatic behavioural symptoms in autistic children and/or adults.
• Four studies (Hollander et al., 2006; Kemner et al 2002; Malone et al, 2001; Potenza  et al, 1999) reported significant side effects including weight gain, increased appetite and increased drowsiness.

Updated

17 Jun 2022

Last Review

01 Feb 2016

Next Review

01 Feb 2019