New Treatment for Autism 'Holds Promise'

SEATTLE, May 13 /PRNewswire/ -- A new, homeopathic treatment for autism, Respen-A, improves symptoms of autism associated with communication, speech, emotion and bonding, according to the researcher who created Respen-A, Elaine DeLack, RN. DeLack will present her scientific theory at the annual Autism-One Conference on Friday morning, May 28th, at 10:30AM in auditorium "Director A/B."  DeLack and other Respen-A representatives will also provide information about the new compound at their booth located in the Pavilion of Exhibitors throughout the weeklong event.

Unlike theories that center on negative reaction to vaccinations, DeLack considered data regarding exposure to a commonly-used drug used during delivery in combination with brain enzymes that affect infants' brain at birth, and again in early childhood.

DeLack's hypothesis (which can be viewed in slide show format at www.Respen-A.com) connects children with autism to the mother's use of epidurals during childbirth.  Epidurals were introduced into this country in the 1960s.  By the mid-80s, 22 percent of women received an epidural during delivery.  In the mid-90s, the number grew to 67%.  Today, nearly 90% of women receive an epidural during pregnancy.  

DeLack contends that the development of autism is not due to the actual epidural procedure, but rather the effect of a "cocktail" of drugs used throughout the procedure, including one drug commonly used in conjunction with the epidural to induce labor: Pitocin.  In combination, the drugs have the potential of skewing the brain if the infant is unable genetically to process the drugs quickly through their system.

Pitocin crosses the placenta to the infant's system during childbirth.  The drug requires adequate production of an enzyme found in the liver (CYP 3A4) in order to rid it from the body.  If the infant has a genetic inadequacy of the CYP 3A4 enzyme (found more often to be lacking statistically in boys than girls), the drug's intensity elevates in the infant's system, builds with another naturally occurring neurotransmitter that plays a key role in very early brain development: the hormone Oxytocin.

Ocytocin builds naturally in the brain during the first 7 – 10 days of life, ensuring that nerve patterning develops as it should in the brain.  Once Oxytocin levels reach a naturally predetermined level, the development of the brain's nerve system (HNS system) ceases.  

DeLack theorizes that the addition of Pitocin and epidural-related drugs into the bloodstream of infants without adequate CYP 3A4 genetic enzymes, causes brain development to "shut off" early, stunting crucial neuro-development.

A second enzyme may explain why autism shows up in many children around the age of three or so.  The enzyme MAO-A is essential in regulating serotonin levels in the brain.  Unaffected by the drugs used in childbirth, MAO-A levels remain high in the first years of life, assisting brain function.  The impact of MAO-A may, in fact, cover symptoms of brain impairment in infants and toddlers.

MAO-A levels diminish as the child ages – allowing serotonin levels to rise, impacting the areas of the brain associated with communication, speech, emotion and bonding.  Many parents of autistic children don't realize their child has been affected until their child shows issues with speech, communication, and bonding.

Respen-A curbs the level of serotonin in the autistic brain, allowing for more normalized function.  

Respen-A is being prescribed by physicians – and many parents are seeing dramatic improvement.  If further study upholds the theory, birthing procedures could change.  "We see promise in all of this," DeLack says.  "Further study will determine if simple modification during childbirth could be all that is needed to stem the surging tide of autism," states DeLack.  And for those who have autism?  

"Respen-A could give them a quality of life that they – and their parents – deserve."

Respen-A is administered via a topical disk.  A prescription is needed, and a daily calcium supplement is also required.  For further information about Respen-A, go to www.Respen-A.com.

According to the Autism One conference website, this year's title is "Autism Redefined 2010."   Jenny McCarthy will be a keynote speaker.  Six "tracks" or areas of emphasis will be offered to conference participants.  One of the tracks focuses on Homeopathic Medicines.  

Elaine DeLack will speak on Friday, May 28th, at 10:30AM in auditorium "Directors A/B."

SOURCE Respen-A