Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children with autism take psychotropic medications. Some of these drugs can help reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behaviors that are sometimes associated with ADHD.
Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the autism's core symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, picking and licking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult situation for parents and children. However, medication is not always the answer. Medications can help manage certain conditions that often occur alongside autism and can help improve general functioning however they aren't able to cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. It is not uncommon for children with autism to have ADHD, and studies show that stimulants can help improve core ADHD symptoms in these kids, including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most frequently used stimulant, and it works by increasing the activity 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. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets, which help schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. And some people argue that the drugs don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic children much stress, including social interactions anxiety, as well as restricted, repetitive behavior.
If your child is suffering from autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulantswhich include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- work in reducing the main ADHD symptoms that may interfere with work, school, and family life. The medications also are believed to reduce the irritability of these kids.
The same study found that atypical antipsychotics, like aripiprazole and risperidone (Abilify) can help with irritability among kids with autism and ADHD. But this finding is still in the early stages. Further research is required to confirm the findings and determine whether these drugs may help other forms of irritability which can be associated with autism, such as aggression or self-injury.
Another concern is that the current studies don't look at long-term use or other important factors like the potential for abuse. And some studies are small or employ different methods as compared to others, making it difficult to compare results. But if your child read more has ADHD and autism, it's worth a conversation with your physician to determine what medication might be appropriate for your child.
The use of medication can be a beneficial tool to manage symptoms and improving quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it should not be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage most efficient for your child. The use of medication can help your child to focus and be more productive at the classroom and at home, and take part in the therapies that are intended to treat his or her autism. This way your child will be able to make the most significant strides that they can.