Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these medications can help ease the irritability and severe disruptive behavior that can occur with ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the autism's primary symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, licking, picking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult situation for parents and children. However, medication is not always the best solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain disorders that are typically associated with autism, and may enhance 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 children with autism to have ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can reduce the core ADHD symptoms in these kids that include hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It functions by increasing the production of dopamine in your brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate the mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic medications on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for parents and schools to handle difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not address the root issues that cause autistic children much stress, including social interaction difficulties, anxiety, and limited, repetitive behaviors.
But if your child has autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics discovered that stimulantswhich include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the primary ADHD symptoms that may interfere with work, school and family life. The medications also are believed to reduce the irritability of these kids.
adhd depression medication found that atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone and aripiprazole (Abilify) can help with irritability in some children with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications can help with other types of irritability, like aggression or injuries.
Another concern is that the current studies do not examine long-term usage or other crucial factors, like the possibility of abuse. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or employ different methods as compared to others, making it difficult to compare outcomes. If your child has both ADHD and autism You should consult your doctor about the most appropriate treatment for your child.
Medication can be an effective instrument for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the most effective medication to use and the dosage that's most effective for your child. Your child can benefit from medication to improve his or her focus, be more productive at home and at school, and fully participate in the therapies designed to combat autism. adhd without medication will be capable of making the most significant gains possible.