5 Things Everyone Gets Wrong On The Subject Of Medication For Autism And ADHD

Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many adults and children with autism use psychotropic medication. Some of these medications can help ease the irritability and severe disruptive behavior that can occur in ADHD.

Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the autism's core symptoms and reduce the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They can also help reduce aggressive behaviors such as self-injury and licking, trichotillomania and obsessive compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be a difficult condition for both parents as well as children. However, medication is not always the answer. Medicines can help manage certain conditions that often occur alongside autism and can help improve the overall quality of life, but they won't cure your child's autism or make them "normal."

Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for kids with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD, and studies show that stimulants can improve the primary ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most commonly used stimulant. It works by increasing the production of dopamine in your brain. This is a neurotransmitter that aids in controlling mood, behavior and reward systems.

Many parents are concerned about the consequences of psychotropic medications on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. adult adhd treatments argue that the drugs do not address the underlying problems that cause autistic kids so much stress. These include social interactions problems, anxiety, and repetitive, restricted behavior.

A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate can be effective in decreasing the primary ADHD symptom that can interfere with family, school as well as work. These medications also seem to reduce anger.

In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can help reduce irritability among some children suffering from ADHD and autism. However, this research is in the early stages. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine if these drugs could help with other forms of irritability which can be associated with autism, like self-injury or aggression.

Another issue is that the current studies do not analyze long-term use or other factors that are important, such as the potential for abuse. Some studies are small or employ different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare the results. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's a good idea to have a discussion with your doctor to determine the right medication for your child.

Medication is a tool that can be useful for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families with children who suffer from autism and ADHD however, it should not be used as substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage most effective for your child. Your child will benefit from medication to improve his or her focus and be more productive at school and home and fully participate in the therapies meant to treat autism. Your child will be in a position to make the greatest gains possible.