Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism use psychotropic medication. Certain medications can help reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behaviors that are often associated with ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the core symptoms of autism and decrease impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors such as aggression and self-injury, picking and licking or licking, trichotillomania, as well as obsessive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult condition for both parents as well as children. However medication isn't always the best solution. Medications can help manage certain conditions that can be associated with autism and can improve the overall quality of life, but they won't cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD and research shows that stimulants can improve core ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, is the most common stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases the activity of dopamine within the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that aids in controlling mood, behavior and reward systems.
However, many parents worry about the effects of psychotropic medications on their children. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behaviors. Some people also argue that the drugs do not tackle the underlying issues that cause autistic children so many problems. These include social interaction difficulties, anxiety and repetitive, restricted behavior.
But if your child has autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -which include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- work at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can interfere with work, school and family life. These drugs also appear to decrease the irritability.
The same study revealed that antipsychotics with atypical properties, such as risperidone and aripiprazole (Abilify) may help with irritability in some children with autism and ADHD. But this finding is still in the early stages. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine if these medications can help other types of irritability which can be associated with autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another concern is that the current studies don't examine long-term usage or other factors that are important, such as the potential for abuse. Some studies are small or use different methods than other. This makes it difficult to compare the results. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's a good idea to have a conversation with your doctor to see the right medication for your child.
The use of medication can be a beneficial tool for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. simply click the following internet site will work with you to determine the most effective medication to use and the dosage most efficient for your child. Your child may benefit from medication that helps his or her focus and perform better at school and home and fully participate in the treatments designed to help treat autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant gains possible.