The efficacy of antifungal agents for the treatment of autism has not been demonstrated in published clinical trials or observational studies. A report published by the Australian Department of Health and Aging (2006) and a recent review of complimentary and alternative medicine for children with autism spectrum disorders both noted that the use of treatments for yeast overgrowth (e.g., probiotics, antifungals, and yeast-free diets) remain a popular option despite the paucity of clinical evidence. Neither publication provided evidence such as utilization data to support the popularity of these strategies. Considering the results of the parental medication and diet survey, the statement regarding the popularity of this treatment strategy may not be applicable to the use of anti-fungal agents, as fewer than 2% of parents reported the use of any gastrointestinal medications.
Due to the lack of relevant published literature, no conclusions can be drawn on the clinical benefits and harms of antifungal agents or pharmacological suspensions free of inactive ingredients in the treatment of children with autism.
