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BMC Psychiatry

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Open Access 01-12-2015 | Case report

Substance-use disorder in high-functioning autism: clinical and neurocognitive insights from two case reports

Authors: Laurence Lalanne, Luisa Weiner, Benoit Trojak, Fabrice Berna, Gilles Bertschy

Published in: BMC Psychiatry | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Background

Low prevalence of substance-use disorder has been reported in adults with autism. However, on a superficial level, adults with high-functioning autism (HFA) display a ‘normal’ façade when they drink alcohol, which may explain why their alcohol dependency is not better diagnosed.

Case presentation

Here, we report two cases of HFA adults who use alcohol and psychostimulants to cope with their anxiety and improve their cognitive abilities and social skills. We analyze how neurocognitive traits associated with HFA may be potential triggers for substance-use disorder.

Conclusion

Better identification of autism and its cognitive impairments, which may be vulnerability traits for developing substance-use disorders, could help improve the diagnosis and treatment of substance-use disorders among this population.

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Title: Substance-use disorder in high-functioning autism: clinical and neurocognitive insights from two case reports
Authors: Laurence Lalanne
Luisa Weiner
Benoit Trojak
Fabrice Berna
Gilles Bertschy
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Psychiatry / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1471-244X
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-015-0541-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Substance-use disorder in high-functioning autism: clinical and neurocognitive insights from two case reports

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

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