FDA Announcement Brings National Attention to Leucovorin; TACA Highlights Hope for Families with Autism

 Prescription-strength folinic acid shows potential to improve communication, behavior, and development in children with autism.

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U. S. Food and Drug Administration announcement initiating the approval of leucovorin calcium for patients with cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) brings hope to families of children diagnosed with autism. Individuals with CFD often present with developmental delays and challenges that overlap with autism symptoms.

Research has shown that nearly two out of three children with autism test positive for autoantibodies that block folate from entering the brain. In many of these children, treatment with leucovorin has demonstrated meaningful improvements in verbal and nonverbal communication, socialization, and behavior.

The Autism Community in Action (TACA) has long championed access to emerging treatments that can improve the quality of life for individuals with autism. TACA Physician Advisory Board members, Dr. Dan Rossignol, MD, and Dr. Richard Frye, MD, PHD have been at the forefront of leucovorin research and continue to use the drug in their practices to support children with autism. 

"I am grateful that science is leading the way to treatment. When we know better, we can do better. Parents should have so much hope that we have a drug for autism that is safe and has minimal side effects that can greatly benefit their child," said Lisa Ackerman, The Autism Community in Action (TACA), Executive Director.

As a trusted national nonprofit serving more than 61,000 parents and caregivers, TACA is committed to helping parents and physicians understand the implications of the FDA's action. At the upcoming TACA National Autism Conference held in Costa Mesa, California,
October 10 – 12, two featured sessions will focus on leucovorin. 

• Leucovorin for Autism with Nicole Rincon, MS, PA-C, and Desiree Mills, R,MSN, FNP-C
  Gain an understanding of what Leucovorin is how it works in the body, and the research exploring its impact on autism-related symptoms.
• What's After Leucovorin? The Complete Plan for More Language. with Jared Skowron, ND
  Explore next steps beyond Leucovorin, including integrative strategies that may help foster continued language and developmental progress.

About The Autism Community in Action (TACA)
The Autism Community in Action (TACA) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education, support, and hope to families living with autism. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Irvine, California, TACA empowers families across the country through free educational meetings, parent mentorship, an online Hope and Help support group, and the annual National Autism Conference. With a vibrant community of more than 61,000 active members and a strong presence on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube, TACA is a trusted resource for families at every stage of the autism journey. To learn more, visit tacanow.org.

SOURCE The Autism Community in Action (TACA)