NICE advises against the use of antipsychotics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or exclusion diets to manage core features of autism in children and young people. In addition, CG170 says the following should not be used:17

·       neurofeedback to manage speech and language problems
·       auditory integration training to manage speech and language problem
·       omega€‘3 fatty acids to manage sleep problems
·       secretin
·       chelation
·       hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

As with adults, antipsychotic medication should only be considered for managing behaviour that challenges in autistic children and young people when psychosocial or other interventions are insufficient or could not be delivered because of the severity of the behaviour. Antipsychotic medication should be initiated (off-label) and monitored by a paediatrician or psychiatrist
Similarly, the relevant NICE guidelines should be followed for co-existing mental health or medical problems, including those guidelines designed for children and young people. Cognitive behavioural therapy may be appropriate for helping anxiety in children and young people with anxiety who have the verbal and cognitive ability.
A sleep plan should be drawn up for autistic children with sleeping difficulties to help establish a regular night-time sleep pattern. Only if this does not help and sleep problems are having a negative impact on the child or their family/carers should medication be considered following consultation with a specialist paediatrician or psychiatrist.