Relative affinities for different classes of neurotransmitter receptors predict neuroleptic efficacy in infantile autism: a hypothesis.

In this report, the clinical efficacy of specific neuroleptics in infantile autism was related to the degree to which they bind to different classes of neurotransmitter receptors and calcium channels in brain. Based upon available receptor-binding data, predictions were made regarding the efficacy of neuroleptics which have not yet been studied in this disorder. Future selection of potentially effective agents should be based upon a pharmacological rationale.