Respen-A
Respen-A utilizes the ingredient reserpine, delivered via a topical disc, for the homeopathic treatment of the symptoms of impaired communication, impaired social interaction and disruptive repetitive behaviors such as associated with autism spectrum disorders. Respen-A is currently marketed as a compounded prescription.
The reserpine in Respen-A increases the activity of the mitochondrial enzyme, monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), which metabolizes serotonin. Serotonin that is not deaminated by MAO-A stimulates the 5-HT1a receptors. 5-HT1a receptor stimulation results in increased ACTH production, proopiomelanocortin production, [Jergensen et al, 2002; Curin, 2003] and inhibition of oxytocin neuron growth [McNamara et al, 2008]. Oxytocin is involved in the development of social and communication skills, and decreased utilization of oxytocin by the body has been implicated in disruptive repetitive behaviors as associated with autism and obsessive compulsive disorder.
Anecdotal data collected via the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC) has shown Respen-A to be very effective in reducing symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders. A decrease in the ATEC score represents an improvement in the core symptoms of autism, which are impaired communication, impaired social interaction, and disruptive repetitive behaviors. The average decrease in the ATEC score after the initiation of Respen-A for one month was 31 points.
