Glossary of Terms on Autism
This glossary is designed to explain some of the scientific terminology, abbreviations etc. used by some people when they talk about autism or research.
You may be able to find more information, including links to other parts of this website, by clicking on the title of an item.
If you can’t find the word you are looking for, or you know of a word we should include, please email info@researchautism.net
Disclaimer
The fact that an intervention is listed in this glossary does not necessarily mean that we agree with its use. Nor does it necessarily mean that there is any scientifically valid or reliable evidence behind it.
Over time we hope to evaluate each of the interventions listed in this glossary, providing a ranking which tells you the level of scientific evidence which supports or does not support its use. For more information please see Treatments and Therapies for Autism Currently Under Scientific Evaluation by Research Autism
- Glossary Item
- Description
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
-
A progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration of motor neurons.
- Anafranil®
-
Brand name of clomipramine, a type of tricyclic anti-depressant used to treat a range of conditions including depression, phobias, obsessional disorders and cataplexy.
- Anecdotal
-
Subjective, usually unpublished, observations. Generally considered to be less reliable than objective, scientific studies.
- Aneurine
-
Another term for Vitamin B-1, one of the B-group of vitamins.
- Angelman Syndrome
-
Complex genetic disorder that affects the nervous system.
- Anger/Aggression
-
According to Mind
‘Anger is a natural response to feeling attacked, injured or violated. It’s part of being human; it’s energy seeking expression. Our anger can be our friend. It helps us survive, giving us the strength to fight back or run away when attacked or faced with injustice. In itself, it’s neither good nor bad, but it can be frightening.’
- Animal Therapies
-
Group of therapies that involve a person interacting with one or more animals.
- Anoretic/Anorexigenic
-
A type of drug used as an appetite reduction drug.
- Anti-Allergy Interventions
-
Group of interventions which range from over-the-counter and prescription medications to vitamin therapy, nutritional supplements, and reduction of allergens in a person’s surroundings
- Anti-Biotics
-
Class of drugs used to kill or prevent the growth of bacteria
- Anti-Body
-
Protein used by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses.
- Anti-Epileptic Drugs
-
Another term for anti-convulsants, a group of drugs designed to prevent or reduce the severity of fits (convulsions) in various types of epilepsy.
- Anti-Fungal Drugs
-
Class of drugs used to treat fungal and yeast infections.
- Anti-Fungal Foods and Supplements
-
A wide range of foodstuffs and dietary supplements which some people believe have anti-fungal properties.
- Anti-Hypertensives
-
Class of drugs used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Anti-Oxidants
-
Class of substances, including some medications and some food supplements, used to slow or inhibit the oxidization of other chemicals
- Antianxiety Drugs
-
Antianxiety drugs, another term for anxiolytics, are a class of drugs used to treat feelings of anxiety or nervousness caused by stress or psychological problems. They are also used for sleeplessness and other problems.
- Anticonvulsants
-
This group of drugs is designed to prevent or reduce the severity of seizures.
- Antidepressants
-
Antidepressants are medications which are used to treat people with depression, anxiety or other mental health problems.
- Antidiuretic Hormone
-
Another term for vasopressin, a hormone which plays an important role in increasing water re-absorption in the kidneys. It has also been implicated in social behaviours and in reducing anxiety.
Last Updated : 01/01/2012Back To Top
