Evidence supporting the use of: Biopterin
For the health condition: Autism

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Biopterin, specifically in its active form tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), has been investigated as a treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on scientific rationale and some clinical studies. BH4 is a critical cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Research has shown that some individuals with autism may have abnormalities in neurotransmitter metabolism and reduced levels of BH4 in the cerebrospinal fluid. This observation led to the hypothesis that supplementation with BH4 could improve neurological function and behaviors in children with autism.

A number of small clinical trials, including open-label and randomized controlled studies, have reported some improvements in social interaction, communication, and cognitive function in autistic children treated with sapropterin (a pharmaceutical form of BH4). For example, a 2010 randomized controlled trial (Klaiman et al., 2013) showed modest but statistically significant improvements in some measures of social functioning. However, these studies tend to be small, and results are not always consistent. The overall quality of evidence is moderate at best, and larger, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm efficacy. BH4 supplementation is not a mainstream or first-line treatment for autism, but it is sometimes used off-label, particularly in children with documented BH4 deficiencies or specific metabolic profiles.

In summary, the use of biopterin/BH4 for autism is supported by a plausible biological mechanism and limited clinical evidence, but the strength of evidence is not robust.

More about Biopterin
More about Autism

Other health conditions supported by Biopterin

Autism
Depression
Parkinson's Disease

Products containing Biopterin

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.