Clinical effects of fenfluramine on children with autism: a review of the research.

A review of research studies published to date on the effects of fenfluramine on children with autism is presented. The current status of the fenfluramine research on children with autism is assessed. The review analyzed the methodological aspects of the research, the toxicity of fenfluramine, and the relationship between fenfluramine, neurotransmitter activity, cognitive ability, and subsequent behavioral change. The review of published data indicated that fenfluramine had positive effects on the reduction of hyperactivity and stereotypic behaviors in 33% of the subjects. The best responders were children with the highest baseline IQs. The conclusions address the need for appropriate subgrouping of autistic syndromes, which may lead to identification of responders to pharmacological treatments. The need for further study of the possible long-term adverse side effects of flenfluramine is noted. Further experimental research on the effects of fenfluramine on children with autism is endorsed.