A drug more than 100 years old may be the secret to effectively treating symptoms of autism, scientists have suggested.

The research, published by the University of California, indicates that Suramin, a drug used since 1916, may improve the lives of those who live with the condition

Following a three-year trial using mice, the experts claim that the drug could “reverse” autism-like behaviours in humans.

In fact, an early-stage clinical trial involving 20 boys with autism between the ages of five and 14 showed positive results.

While one-half of the group was given a placebo, the half which received the drug performed better on tests for language ability, social interactions and repetitive behaviour.

The scientists say the improvements disappeared after they stopped taking the drug.

Ian Dale, head of research monitoring and evaluation at the National Autistic Society, said: “The findings about suramin are interesting, but this a very small study. The results suggest it’s worth researching further, but we’d urge extreme caution before drawing any conclusions on the basis of this study alone about whether suramin could benefit children on the autism spectrum.”