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Autism Screening and Treatment Protocols

Frontier Health and Wellness (FHW) now offers two structured medication protocols that may help some individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These are not cures, and they do not replace school supports, therapies, or skills programs. They are time-limited trials with clear goals and close follow-up.

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Common goals we track during a protocol trial

  • Social connection and back-and-forth interaction

  • Social withdrawal / social engagement

  • Language and communication (when this is a main concern)

  • Irritability and emotional outbursts (for some patients)

  • Hyperactivity/restlessness (for some patients)

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How these protocols work at FHW

  • Step 1: Comprehensive diagnostic assessment. We re-confirm the ASD diagnosis, evaluate common co-occurring conditions, and document baseline symptom severity so we can judge real change.

  • Step 2: Structured trial (only if appropriate). If a protocol looks like a reasonable fit, we start a monitored trial with check-ins and symptom tracking.

  • Step 3: Continue only if benefit is clear. We continue,  adjust, or stop based on measurable change and tolerability.

Protocols Available at This Time

Memantine (Namenda): A structured trial aimed mainly at social responsiveness in a subset of individuals with ASD.


Leucovorin (Folinic Acid): A structured trial aimed most often at language/communication in a subset of children where the
profile suggests folate-transport (“cerebral folate deficiency”) physiology may be relevant. Leucovorin (folinic acid) is not the
same as over-the-counter folic acid.

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Important Notes:

  • These protocols are not a cure for ASD and are not the right fit for everyone.

  • These treatments are “off-label,” meaning they are not FDA-approved specifically for autism.

  • At this time both the Memantine and Leucovorin treatment protocols are services provided only under Dr. E. David Hjellen. If you would like to pursue either treatment protocol, you must request an appointment specifically with Dr. Hjellen.

  • Insurance coverage may vary, and some parts of protocol care may be out-of-pocket

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