How do you treat adult autistic symptoms?

Adults with autism treat the symptoms of the disorder with behavioral treatments, medications or a combination of both, according to Autism Speaks. Treatment plans may also include addressing other associated medical conditions, such as seizures, sleep disturbances or gastrointestinal distress. A small minority of people diagnosed with autism as children do not meet the criteria for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis as adults because some children mature out of some forms of autism, and some treatments are successful.

Communication difficulties, social challenges and repetitive behavior are the three core symptoms of autism, describes Autism Speaks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved any medications for treating autism's core symptoms, but has approved risperidone and aripiprazole for treating irritability associated with autism.

Some adults with autism choose alternative medicine or complementary therapies to treat autism symptoms, but little or no research exists showing these treatments' effectiveness, according to Mayo Clinic. Art or music therapy reduces autistic adults' sensitivities to touch or sound. Chelation therapy removes mercury and heavy metals from the body, but may be dangerous and research evidence has not linked autism with mercury exposure. Some adults use acupuncture or special diets to treat autism symptoms, and some use sensory-based therapies.