Reference no: EM133787009

Question

A 10-year-old child was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 4 years and treated successfully with nonpharmacologic behavioral and educational interventions. However, he recently developed significant aggression toward his younger peers and siblings when they refuse to abide by the rules that he believes are important in board games. One peer required medical attention due to the injuries, and the family is considering out-of-home placement. His pediatrician elects to prescribe 1 mg of risperidone per day, and the boy develops torticollis after two days of being on the medication. He is evaluated at urgent care and responds to 50 mg IM of diphenhydramine with complete symptom resolution. He is prescribed a several day supply of oral diphenhydramine for prophylactic use, and his parents are advised to stop the risperidone until they consult with their pediatrician. His parents are interested in genetic testing as they have heard it can reveal which medication will be effective. The testing is available through the clinic, with results available in two to three weeks after sample submission. Which of the following interventions is the best next step by the pediatrician? Changing from risperidone to haloperidol 1 mg per day Electing to retry.