The theory behind leucovorin's use for autism postulates that some children have a blockage in the transport of folic acid into the brain that potentially contributes to neurological symptoms.

Summary

Mason Connor, diagnosed with autism at 2.5 years old, was nonverbal until his parents discovered leucovorin, a folic acid-based drug used to counter chemotherapy side effects.

Within days of taking it, Mason spoke his first words. Dr. Richard Frye, a pediatric neurologist, believes leucovorin can help many autistic children but lacks FDA approval due to low profitability.

Nonprofit Every Cure advocates for repurposing existing drugs for new treatments.

Mason, now 5, is set to start mainstream kindergarten.

  • RobotToasterEnglish
    8·
    4 days ago

    Also known as folinic acid.

    Problems in folate metabolism, like MTHFR mutations, are implicated in all sorts of neuropsychiatric disorders.