Autism/sensory intergration disorder

My question is regards to my grandson.  At one point in his life prior to 2 years of age he was a normal function child.  After 2 he became another being.... With lots of evaluations,we have been told he has autism,SID,????  Serious self inflictions, screaming, head banging, emotional roller coaster ride on a daily basis.  Now at almost 5 we have wonder if this was due to his MMR shot and the relations with out of the blue regression..  He has been given rispadal. .5 mg/ 3 times a day and to say the least his self inflictions and tantrums are at a all time low.  Able to take in information and respond calmly to adversities which was not even obtainable prior to medication.  The pshychritist that we see feels the needs to play with his regiment, which leads to serious repercautions.  My question is what is the side effects outside of what he has done prior to taking medication to a 5 yr old child being taken off of this drug when it seems to be working?  The physical side effects along with how addicting is this to the mind and body?  I fear the worst when it comes to him regressing.

[italianmom]

Well i have two kids with autism. I definitely think the vaccines played a part. As far as the medication your grandson is on...i think its a personal judgement on what the family thinks is best. We havent done any pharmeuceuticals....just biomedical stuff..vitamins/minerals , gluten free diet, etc. And traditional therapies..speech, ot, pt. It seems to me 5 is a little young to be on those kinds of meds. Have you gotten other professional opinions? There are so many other things to try first..but thats my opinion. Good luck and God bless your grandson.