Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many people, both adults and children with autism take psychotropic medications. visit the following page of these medications may help reduce the irritability as well as severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes are common in ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's primary symptoms and decrease impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury and licking, picking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive behaviors.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely difficult for both parents and children however, medication isn't always the answer. While medications can help manage certain conditions that are often associated with autism and enhance overall functioning but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. It is not uncommon for children with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD and research shows that stimulants can improve the core ADHD symptoms in these children such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most well-known stimulant. It works by increasing the dopamine activity in the brain. This neurotransmitter helps control the mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the impact of psychotropic medications on their children. Critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not address the underlying problems that cause autistic children much stress. These include social interactions issues, anxiety and restricted, repetitive behavior.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics discovered that stimulantswhich include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine are effective at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can interfere with school, work, and family life. These drugs also appear to decrease irritability.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical antipsychotics such as Risperidone and Aripiprazole may aid in reducing irritability in some children suffering from ADHD and autism. But this finding is still preliminary. Further study is needed to confirm the findings and determine if these medications can help other types of irritability that can accompany autism, like aggression or self-injury.
Another concern is that current studies don't focus on long-term use or other important factors, like the potential for addiction. And some studies are small or employ different methods than others, which makes it hard to compare outcomes. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it's worth a meeting with your doctor to determine the right medication for your child.
Medication is a tool that can be beneficial in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families affected by autism or ADHD However, it is not an alternative to therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best dosage and medication to minimize side effects and ensure that it is helping your child. Medicines can help your child concentrate and be more productive at the classroom and at home, and take part in the programs that are designed to treat autism. That way your child will be able to make the most strides possible.