Leucovorin, Bumetanide, CBD, and Other Alternative Autism Treatments Parents Are Talking About
Many parents I meet tell me they’ve seen new autism treatments being shared on Reddit threads, Substack newsletters, or parent forums. It makes sense. You want to turn over every stone when it comes to helping your child. Some of these ideas are interesting and may have potential, but most are still experimental and not well-studied. That’s why I encourage families to bring these questions into the exam room. Talking openly with your developmental pediatrician can help you sort through what’s out there and decide what might (or might not) make sense for your child. If you’re in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia area and are concerned about your child’s behavior, reach out to our office today. We have openings and can diagnose autism and give you insight into any alternative treatment options. Here’s a look at some of the treatments parents are discussing online when it comes to alternative autism treatments.
Folinic Acid (Leucovorin)
Searches for “folinic acid autism” or “leucovorin autism treatment” are trending. Parents report improvements in language and responsiveness, though some notice irritability or sleep problems. Clinical trials are ongoing, especially for children with folate-receptor autoantibodies.
Bumetanide
Bumetanide, a type of diuretic, is popping up again in parent forums in 2025. Some families share stories of their child seeming less irritable or more socially engaged while on it. Scientifically, researchers think it may work by shifting the balance of chloride in brain cells, which could influence how brain signals are processed. But because it’s a strong diuretic, it can also cause side effects like low potassium and dehydration, so it needs very close medical supervision.
Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Another one I often hear parents asking about is “LDN” (low-dose naltrexone) for autism. Some families describe fewer sensory challenges or calmer regulation on it, and it’s easy to understand why parents want to know more. Scientifically, naltrexone is a medication that affects the body’s opioid receptors and may also influence immune and inflammatory pathways—areas researchers are exploring in autism. That said, published studies are still very limited, the results we have are mixed, and dosing always requires a prescribing clinician. If you’re curious about LDN, bring it up with your developmental pediatrician so you can weigh the potential benefits against the uncertainties together.
Oxytocin Nasal Spray
“Oxytocin spray” for autism is a hot topic. Since oxytocin is sometimes called the “bonding hormone,” it’s natural to wonder if boosting it could strengthen social skills. Researchers have studied nasal oxytocin in children with autism for years, but the results are mixed: some smaller studies found improvements in eye contact or social engagement for certain subgroups, while larger trials haven’t shown consistent overall benefits. The science isn’t clear yet, and long-term safety is still being studied.
Suramin
Suramin, an anti-parasitic drug, resurfaces every few years. Access is only through research trials. Some wellness influencers promote “pine needle tea” as a substitute, but this has no scientific support.
CBD and Cannabis Products
“CBD autism” and “medical marijuana for autism” are some of the most common parent searches. Families try CBD oils or blends with THC to address aggression, self-injury, or sleep. Reports are mixed. Some children improve and others worsen. Don’t forget product quality is variable.
Microbiome and Gut Health
I hear from many parents who are curious about the “gut-brain connection” and how it might relate to autism. Online searches for things like “probiotics autism,” “FMT (fecal microbiota transplant) autism,” or “gluten-free autism diet” have grown a lot in recent years. It makes sense. If your child struggles with digestion or picky eating, it’s natural to wonder whether the gut could be playing a role in behavior and regulation, too. Some early studies do suggest that changes in gut bacteria or diet may influence things like irritability or attention, but the evidence is still very preliminary and results vary widely from child to child. That’s why many families try combining dietary shifts, like removing gluten or dairy, with supplements such as probiotics. If you’re exploring this area, it’s best to do so with guidance.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Clinics advertise “hyperbaric oxygen autism” as a way to improve attention and behavior. Scientifically, HBOT is well-studied for conditions like wound healing and decompression sickness, but the research for autism is weak and inconsistent. Major medical groups do not recommend HBOT for autism at this time. It’s also important to note that HBOT isn’t risk-free. Just recently, a child died during an HBOT session in the U.S., underscoring the very real safety concerns.
Camel Milk
Searches for “camel milk autism” pop up periodically. Online, some families share stories of better digestion or behavior after trying it. Scientifically, camel milk does contain different proteins and immune-active compounds than cow’s milk, but there’s very little published research in autism specifically. Safety is also important to consider—unpasteurized camel milk can carry harmful bacteria that put children at risk.
Stem Cell Therapy
“Stem cell therapy for autism” is a question that comes up more and more. Some families even travel abroad for expensive infusions, hoping to see changes in language or development. While a few parents report perceived gains, the science hasn’t caught up—there’s no solid evidence that stem cell treatments improve autism symptoms. Because these therapies are unregulated in many countries, the risks are real, from infections to complications after the infusion itself. If you’re hearing about stem cell therapy and wondering if it could help, the safest step is to talk openly with your developmental pediatrician about what’s known, what’s unknown, and where research is heading.
The Big Picture for Families
These are not cures. Some may help with specific symptoms like irritability, sleep, or language, but none “treat autism” itself.
Evidence is uneven. Folinic acid, bumetanide, and CBD have more data; HBOT, camel milk, and stem cells have little or none.
Safety matters. Even natural products can have side effects or interactions. Medical supervision is essential.
Track changes. If families choose to trial a therapy, it’s best to set clear goals, track progress, and stop if there’s no benefit.
If you’re in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia area and are worried about your child’s behavior or are wondering if your child has autism, reach out to our office today. As a specialist in autism and ADHD care in the DMV, I work closely with families to provide evaluations, strategies, and support tailored to each child’s needs.
