Treating Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Although a unique neuropsychological and behavioural profile does not exist for Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), it is very important to establish the diagnosis as soon as possible. This allows parents and teachers to adjust their expectations for development, growth and performance at school. Furthermore, the main treatment for FASD is based on all kinds of adaptations (in day-to-day life, in education, in the workplace, etc.) and on psychological interventions with a neurocognitive and behavioural focus. It should be remembered that the difficulties that these patients experience in day-to-day life (for example, poor management of finances due to a lack of impulse control, etc.) also occur in other conditions (such as behavioural disorders, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

Pharmacological treatment may occasionally be necessary when very specific signs and symptoms are present, such as hyperactivity and attention deficit. 

Trials are also being conducted on other treatments, for example nutritional supplements.

In Catalonia, the local government is currently developing the PAIcSaMAEC programme (Comprehensive Program to Address High-Complexity Mental Health Conditions and Addictions), which includes FASD as one of its strands of work.