CBS News Philadelphia: A South Jersey Family Sees Hope in a Vitamin B–Based Treatment for Autism
A recent CBS Philadelphia story has sparked new conversations about a vitamin B–based medication that may support communication in some children with autism. Here’s what families in our community should know — and how our team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry helps parents explore emerging treatment options safely and thoughtfully.
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What This Means for Families Seeking Care at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we meet families every day who are searching for answers, clarity, and options for their children on the autism spectrum. A recent CBS Philadelphia story about a South Jersey family’s experience with a vitamin B–derived medication—Leucovorin—has sparked many questions, and we want to help unpack what this means.
A Moving Story of Progress
The CBS segment followed the family of a 6-year-old boy with autism who is non-verbal. Under medical supervision, he began taking Leucovorin (folinic acid), and his parents soon noticed encouraging changes:
- More consistent eye contact
- New spontaneous gestures like waving “hi”
- And a milestone they’ll never forget: hearing their son say “mom” for the very first time
For parents of autistic children, progress often comes in subtle but powerful steps — and this family’s story resonated with so many others across our region.
Understanding Leucovorin: Not Just a Vitamin
Leucovorin is a prescription form of folinic acid, a biologically active version of folate (vitamin B9). It has long been used in other medical contexts, but in recent years it’s gained attention for potential benefits in certain children with autism, especially those with:
Cerebral folate deficiency (CFD)
Folate receptor autoantibodies (FRA)
Other folate transport or metabolic challenges
In the CBS report, Dr. David Danish noted that about half of the children they treat show notable improvements in communication, though responses vary widely based on individual biology.
What the Research Says — and What It Doesn’t Yet
While some federal officials have called folinic acid an “exciting” emerging therapy, leading health organizations urge caution. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that current evidence is limited and that this is not a universal treatment for autism. This distinction matters. At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we help families carefully evaluate whether a treatment is:
Appropriate
Evidence-informed
Aligned with the child’s unique biology
Part of a broader, supportive care plan
Leucovorin can be transformative for a subset of children — but it isn’t a blanket solution.
Why Families Are Asking About Leucovorin
Stories like the one aired on CBS resonate deeply with parents because they showcase hope grounded in lived experience. At our practice, we often speak with families seeking a holistic understanding of autism-related challenges, including:
Nutrition and methylation
Folate metabolism
Genetic factors
Gut–brain pathways
Neurological development
This is why integrative psychiatry matters — it allows us to consider the full picture, blending medical insights with developmental and behavioral supports.
How Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry Can Help
If your family is curious about folinic acid or other emerging treatments, our team can guide you through:
- A comprehensive assessment focused on underlying metabolic factors
- Testing options (including FRA testing) when clinically appropriate
- Evidence-based interpretation of results
- Medication management
- Coordination with therapists, nutritionists, and behavioral specialists
- Support for both in-person and telehealth visits
Our goal is to help families make informed, confident decisions — never rushed, never pressured, always grounded in science and compassion.
Next Steps
If you watched the CBS 3 segment and wondered whether Leucovorin could help your child, we’re here to answer questions and explore options together.
Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry provides autism and behavioral support for children, teens, and young adults — with evaluation, medication management, and integrative care under one roof.
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Any treatment—whether a supplement, medication, procedure, injection, therapy, or device—carries potential risks, especially when used in excess or by individuals with certain medical conditions or genetic predispositions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.