Source: Scientific American
According to a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, treatment of the hormone oxytocin may allow some autistic children to become more sociable.
The research found the hormone, which enhances social behavior in animals, helped autistic children minimize their repetitive behaviors and anxiety levels.
Oxytocin was administered through a nasal spray to participants, who were previously diagnosed with autism and ranged in ages from 6 to 12.
While the findings are promising to treat autism, researchers are examining ways in which the hormone can be used for long-term treatment.
“We have to make sure that long-term administration is safe,” explained co-lead researcher Antonio Hardan.
Read full story at: Scientific American