Intervention fact sheets
What each intervention is: a description, examples and references. For some psychosocial interventions, also the programmes studied under the same label and the techniques identified in their published trial reports and programme documents. What each intervention does is shown in the Intervention explorer: every row links to it.
55 interventions · 41 described
A row opens its description| Intervention | What it is | Programmes described | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmacological26 interventions · 14 described | |||
| Alpha-2 agonists (guanfacine / clonidine)A2AGO | Alpha-2 agonists, specifically clonidine and guanfacine, are FDA-approved ADHD treatments that target brain receptors to regulate norepinephrine and attention. While both medications can be safe and effective in treating ADHD, they may require close monitoring due to potential side effects (e.g., clonidine can lower blood pressure and cause low heart rate and sedation). | See its evidence | |
| AripiprazoleARI | Aripiprazole is an antipsychotic that acts on the dopamine and serotonin systems as a partial agonist. | See its evidence | |
| AtomoxetineATX | Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that acts on the norepinephrine system as a reuptake inhibitor. | See its evidence | |
| BuspironeBUSP | Buspirone is an anxiolytic that acts on the serotonin system as a partial agonist. | See its evidence | |
| ClomipramineCLOMI | Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that acts on the serotonin and norepinephrine systems as a reuptake inhibitor. | See its evidence | |
| DonepezilDONEP | Donepezil is an antipsychotic that acts on the acetylcholine system as an enzyme inhibitor. | See its evidence | |
| Folinic acidFOLI | Folinic acid, also known as 5-formyl tetrahydrofolic acid or leucovorin, is a vital medication used in various cancer treatments and as an antidote for folic acid antagonists like methotrexate. As a natural and biologically active form of folate, folinic acid enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy agents such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and mitigates the toxic effects of methotrexate. It is particularly crucial in treating colorectal cancer, where it improves patient outcomes when combined with 5-FU. Additionally, folinic acid is used to counteract methotrexate toxicity and to treat folate-deficiency-associated megaloblastic anemia. | See its evidence | |
| MemantineMEMANT | Memantine is a medication primarily used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer disease. It works by regulating the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. By blocking excessive glutamate activity at NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors, memantine helps to prevent neuronal damage and improve cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer disease. | See its evidence | |
| MethylphenidateMPH | Methylphenidate is an FDA-approved stimulant medication widely used as a first-line treatment for ADHD. It functions by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine to regulate inattention and impulsivity. Like other stimulants, it is a controlled substance requiring close monitoring due to abuse potential and side effects (e.g., appetite suppression, and sleep disruption). | See its evidence | |
| NaltrexoneNALT | Naltrexone is an opioid-receptor antagonist, used mainly to reduce craving and relapse in addiction. | See its evidence | |
| RisperidoneRISP | Risperidone is an antipsychotic that acts on the dopamine and serotonin systems as an antagonist. | See its evidence | |
| V1a receptor antagonists (balovaptan, RG7713)V1a-RA | The Vasopressin receptor antagonist V1a-RA is a key focus in anxiety and stress research. AVP affects brain regions involved in anxiety, such as the amygdala, and may be linked to anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder. Clinical studies show decreased AVP levels following anxiolytic treatment. V1a receptors are abundant in areas like the lateral septum and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, which are involved in fear and anxiety regulation. | See its evidence | |
| ValproateVALP | Valproate is an anticonvulsant and mood stabiliser; its precise mechanism of action is not fully established. | See its evidence | |
| VasopressinV1a-RA | The Vasopressin receptor antagonist V1a-RA is a key focus in anxiety and stress research. AVP affects brain regions involved in anxiety, such as the amygdala, and may be linked to anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder. Clinical studies show decreased AVP levels following anxiolytic treatment. V1a receptors are abundant in areas like the lateral septum and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, which are involved in fear and anxiety regulation. | See its evidence | |
| Not described yet12 interventions · each name leads to its evidence | Aadrenocorticotropic hormone, e.g. Acthar Gel Adrenocorticotropic hormone, e.g. Acthar Gel Amantadine Amantine Antidepressants (SSRI) Antidepressants (tricyclic) Bumetanide, e.g. Burimex Cholinesterase inhibitors, e.g. Aricept, Razadyne Fenfluramine, e.g. Fintepla Haloperidol, e.g. Haldol Riluzole, e.g. Rilutek Tetrahydrobiopterin, e.g. Sapropterin (Kuvan) | ||
| Psychosocial9 interventions · 9 described | |||
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)CBT | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a psychotherapeutic intervention that addresses maladaptive patterns of thinking and behavior. By teaching individuals to recognize cognitive distortions, face fears, and develop practical problem-solving skills, it aims to reduce emotional distress and improve daily functioning. | See its evidence | |
| Developmental int.DEV | Developmental interventions are built upon constructivist theories of learning (Piaget & Inhelder, 1969). These constructivist theories consider that the learner acquires knowledge on the basis of her or his perceptions of reality and experience: we learn by constructing knowledge and reconstructing our perceptions to adapt them to our own contexts. These constructivist theories thus postulate that learners acquire knowledge not by passively absorbing it, but by actively putting it into perspective with their experiences and representations (Elliott et al., 2000). Therefore, learning is intrinsically relative to a learner stage of cognitive development. | DIR-Floortime | See its evidence |
| Early Intensive BehavioralEIBI | Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions (EIBI) are behavioral interventions that are widely used in the management of individuals with ASD. They are based on the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) model and, historically, they have relied on the Lovaas model (1981, 1987). | DTT | See its evidence |
| Naturalistic int.NDBI | Historically, the applied behavior analysis (ABA) approach has been used extensively in the management of individuals with ASD. Progressively, in concert with the development of ABA-focused programs (e.g., the Lovaas program), numerous models of child development emerged. This leads clinicians and researchers working with individuals with ASD to introduce aspects of these developmental theories to the care of children with ASD. For example, it has been thought to use interventions based on the principle of ABA interventions but in more naturalistic and developmentally sensitive contexts, using rewards linked to the activity performed by the child instead of rewards independent of the activity, or using materials that the child appreciates. Moreover, professionals have began to focus on certain key skills and knowledge that will enable the emergence of other skills or knowledge later in the development (e.g., a focus can be made in improving joint attention to facilitate the future emergence of language). | ESDMPRTJASPERSCERTS | See its evidence |
| Parent-mediated behavioral interventionsPMI | Parent-Mediated Interventions (PMI) involve training parents to function as the primary agents of therapeutic change. By applying techniques in the daily environment, these interventions aim to facilitate early intervention and improve skill generalization. While the delivery model is consistent, the focus adapts to the condition: interventions for Autism typically target social communication and joint attention, whereas those for ADHD primarily focus on behavior management and structural support. | P-ESDMHanen-MTWImPACTPACTPCIT-CDIRUBIRT-MahoneyESI | See its evidence |
| Sensory IntegrationSENS | Sensory Integration Therapy (SENS) is an intervention designed to help individuals with sensory processing problems, which are common in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Developed by occupational therapist Anna Jean Ayres, SIT is based on the principle that difficulties in processing and integrating sensory information can lead to challenges in daily functioning, behavior, and social interactions. The goal of SIT is to enhance the brain ability to process sensory information from the body and the environment, enabling individuals to respond to sensory stimuli more appropriately. | OT-ASI | See its evidence |
| Social skills groupsSSG | Since the first description of ASD by Leo Kanner, difficulties with social skills have remained a cornerstone of the definition of ASD. These difficulties can manifest in very distinct ways for different individuals: some individuals with ASD have a desire to interact with others but do not know how to connect with friends while some others have a desire to avoid social interactions (Chevallier et al., 2012; Mazurek, 2014). Regardless of the manifestation of these social skill difficulties, poor social skills have been shown to be associated with poorer outcomes in daily life (Billstedt et al., 2005; Taylor et al., 2015; Mazurek, 2014). | See its evidence | |
| TEACCH | During the 1960s, Eric Schopler argued that Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) were probably the result of an organic neurological dysfunction, although the precise causes were not yet identified. He adopts a new approach in which parents are trained as co-therapists of their child (Trehin & Durham, 1996). The preliminary results of this approach led the state of North Carolina to commit to helping people with ASD by setting up a program called "Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication handicapped Children" (TEACCH) created by Eric Schopler. This type of program then spread to other US states and gained popularity around the world (Peerenboom, 2003). | TEACCH | See its evidence |
| Technology-basedTECH | Technology-based interventions (TECH) use a form of technology as the primary medium to deliver the intervention. Computer software or television (e.g., interactive DVD) have long been one of the main forms of technology used. Progressively, many advanced technologies have been used as intervention tools (such as robots or virtual reality environments). | See its evidence | |
| Complementary20 interventions · 18 described | |||
| AcupunctureACUP | Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to regulate energy flow (Qi) and restore physiological balance. In the context of neurodevelopmental disorders, it is utilized as a complementary therapy believed to modulate neurotransmitters (such as glutamate and GABA) and trigger neurological responses to alleviate symptoms. Treatment protocols are typically customized to the individual by qualified practitioners. | See its evidence | |
| Animal-assistedAAI | Animal-assisted interventions base rehabilitation on the interaction with animals. In the field of animal mediation, the most represented intervention is equine-assisted therapy, based on interaction with the horse (through riding and care). | See its evidence | |
| CarnitineL-CARNIT | L-carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy production. It is synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine and is also obtained from dietary sources, particularly meat and dairy products. L-carnitine is essential for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized to produce energy. | See its evidence | |
| Diet (restricted/elimination)DIET | Specific Dietary Programmes utilize nutritional interventions to target biological processes like inflammation or metabolic function. These interventions typically involve the strict elimination of potential allergens (e.g., wheat, dairy) or additives to alleviate somatic issues and potentially improve behavioral symptoms. | See its evidence | |
| Herbal medicineHERB | Asian Herbal Medicine encompasses a range of traditional therapies originating from East Asian countries, primarily China, Japan, and Korea. These therapies utilize blends formulated from plants, roots, and other natural substances to treat various disorders. Herbal formulas are selected based on traditional diagnostic methods and tailored to the patient individual needs, considering their constitution, specific symptoms, and overall health. | See its evidence | |
| L-CarnosineL-CARNO | L-carnosine is a dipeptide molecule composed of the amino acids beta-alanine and histidine. It is found in high concentrations in muscle tissue and the brain, playing a crucial role in cellular health and function. L-carnosine acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress. | See its evidence | |
| MelatoninMELAT | Melatonin is a hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle by signaling the body to prepare for sleep when night falls. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening, remain high throughout the night, and decrease in the morning, helping to synchronize the body internal clock with the external environment. | See its evidence | |
| Music therapyMUSIC | Music therapy leverages the emotional, cognitive, and social dimensions of music to promote improvements in these areas and achieve therapeutic goals. Interventions involve structured musical activities such as singing, playing an instrument, improvising, and listening to music. These activities are designed to engage individuals in a motivating and enjoyable way. | See its evidence | |
| N-acetylcysteineNAC | N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine and serves as a precursor to glutathione, one of the body essential antioxidants. Glutathione plays a critical role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and maintaining overall cellular health. Due to its powerful antioxidant properties and its ability to modulate the glutamatergic and dopaminergic systems, NAC has been explored as a therapeutic option for various psychiatric and neurological conditions. | See its evidence | |
| OxytocinOXYT | Oxytocin is a neuropeptide hormone that plays a crucial role in social bonding, trust, and emotional regulation. It is naturally produced in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream and brain, where it influences various aspects of social behavior. In clinical settings, oxytocin is mainly administered intranasally to target the central nervous system directly. | See its evidence | |
| Physical trainingPHYS | Physical Training (encompassing interventions such as) involves structured or unstructured bodily movement to enhance physical and mental well-being. It is utilized as a complementary therapy to improve motor coordination, emotional regulation, and social interaction through individual or group-based activities. | See its evidence | |
| Polyunsaturated fatty acidsPUFA | Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs), specifically Omega-3s like EPA and DHA, are essential fatty acids critical for brain function and development. Because the human body cannot synthesize them, they must be obtained through diet or supplementation, where they are utilized as a complementary intervention to support cognitive health and reduce inflammation. | See its evidence | |
| ProbioticsPROB | Probiotics are living microorganisms consumed to maintain intestinal microbial balance. Through the gut-brain axis, they are hypothesized to influence neurological and psychological conditions by modulating the immune system and neurotransmitter production. | See its evidence | |
| SecretinSECRET | Secretin is a peptide hormone produced in the small intestine, playing a crucial role in the digestive system by regulating the pH of the small intestine and stimulating the secretion of bicarbonate by the pancreas. This bicarbonate neutralizes stomach acid, creating an optimal environment for digestive enzymes to function. | See its evidence | |
| SulforaphaneSULFO | Sulforaphane is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale. It is a type of isothiocyanate, which is produced when the enzyme myrosinase transforms glucoraphanin (a glucosinolate) into sulforaphane during the chewing and digestion of these vegetables. Sulforaphane is renowned for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. | See its evidence | |
| tDCS | Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that delivers low-intensity electrical currents to the scalp. It aims to modulate neuronal excitability (specifically in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) to potentially improve social communication, cognitive flexibility, and reduce repetitive behaviors. | See its evidence | |
| TMS-rTMSrTMS | Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate or inhibit specific brain regions. Typically administered in daily outpatient sessions, it is studied for its ability to alter neuronal activity patterns associated with psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions. | See its evidence | |
| Vitamin DVIT-D | Vitamin D is an essential nutrient critical for bone health, immune regulation, and neuroprotection. Research explores its role in modulating genes and neuronal pathways involved in social behavior and cognition, particularly in individuals with documented deficiencies. | See its evidence | |
| Not described yet2 interventions · each name leads to its evidence | Stem cell therapy, e.g. Autologous umbilical cord blood Vitamin B12 | ||
Descriptions, examples and references come from the EBIA-CT dataset. Programmes and techniques come from the technique inventory.