Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these drugs can help reduce the intensity of irritability and disruptive behaviors that are often caused by ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the autism's primary symptoms and decrease the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, licking and picking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely difficult for both children and parents, but medication is not always the solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain conditions that are often associated with autism and improve overall functioning but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. It's not uncommon for kids with autism to suffer from ADHD and research shows that stimulants can reduce the core ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant. It improves the activity of dopamine within the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic medication on their children. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which make it easier for schools and parents to manage difficult behaviors. And some people argue that the drugs do not address the root issues that cause autistic children so many problems, including social get more info difficulties anxiety, as well as restricted, repetitive behavior.
But if your child has autism and ADHD A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -such as methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- work in reducing the primary ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with work, school, and family life. The medications also are believed to reduce the irritability of these kids.
The same study also found that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) may aid in reducing irritability in children with autism and ADHD. However, this is preliminary. Further study is needed to confirm the findings and determine if these drugs may help other forms of irritability that can accompany autism, like aggression or self-injury.
Another issue is that the current studies do not examine long-term usage or other factors that are important, such as the possibility of abuse. And some studies are small or employ different methods as compared to others, making it hard to compare outcomes. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth having a discussion with your doctor to see which medication is appropriate for him or her.
Medication is a tool that can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families affected by autism and ADHD, but it shouldn't be used as a replacement for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will assist you in determining the best medication and dosage to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure it's working for your child. Your child can benefit from medication to help him or her concentrate, be more productive at school and home and fully participate in the therapies designed to help treat autism. Your child will be in a position to make the greatest advancements possible.