Sign in Subscribe
Autism

Prescription-Strength Folinic Acid Shows Promise for Autism

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The US Food and Drug Administration has announced the approval of leucovorin calcium for patients with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), a condition that often presents with developmental delays and challenges similar to those seen in autism. The approval brings hope to families of children diagnosed with autism, as research has shown that nearly two out of three children with autism test positive for autoantibodies that block folate from entering the brain. Treatment with leucovorin has demonstrated meaningful improvements in verbal and nonverbal communication, socialization, and behavior in these children.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FDA has approved leucovorin calcium for patients with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD), a condition that often presents with developmental delays and challenges similar to those seen in autism.
  • Nearly two out of three children with autism test positive for autoantibodies that block folate from entering the brain.
  • Treatment with leucovorin has demonstrated meaningful improvements in verbal and nonverbal communication, socialization, and behavior in children with autism.
  • The Autism Community in Action (TACA) has been a key advocate for access to emerging treatments that can improve the quality of life for individuals with autism, and TACA Physician Advisory Board members Dr. Dan Rossignol and Dr. Richard Frye have been at the forefront of leucovorin research.
  • TACA will feature sessions on leucovorin at its upcoming National Autism Conference, held in Costa Mesa, California, October 10-12.
  • The Autism Community in Action (TACA) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, support, and hope to families living with autism, with over 61,000 active members and a strong presence on social media.

Statistics:

  • 2/3 of children with autism test positive for autoantibodies that block folate from entering the brain.
  • 61,000+ parents and caregivers are served by The Autism Community in Action (TACA).

Sources:

  • The Autism Community in Action (TACA)
  • US Food and Drug Administration

Read more