Autism Spectrum Disorder ("ASD") is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Although there is currently no pharmacological treatment available to cure ASD, pharmacological treatments are frequently used to control the symptoms of ASD. 

(a) Briefly describe the common core symptoms of ASD. (6 marks) 

Stephen Wang is 15 years old and was diagnosed with ASD when he was 3 years old. You have just received a prescription from Stephen's psychiatrist: risperidone 500 mcg once every day for 7 days. His mother tells you that the risperidone helps to calm him down. 

(b) What are the common short-term adverse effects of the medication and what are the rare but serious side effects? (4 marks) 

Stephen's behaviour improved significantly and he remains on risperidone 500 mcg once every day over the next few months. His mother noticed that he has put on a lot of weight. She reads that risperidone can cause weight gain in the patient information leaflet. 

(c) What is the pharmacological action of risperidone and mechanism for causing weight gain? (3 marks) 

(d) What non-pharmacological and pharmacological options are available to manage Stephen's weight gain? (4 marks) 

(e) Stephen's mother also mentions his sleeping problem, what advice would you give? (3 marks)