14 Questions You Might Be Insecure To Ask About Medication For Autism And ADHD

14 Questions You Might Be Insecure To Ask About Medication For Autism And ADHD

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Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Certain medications can help to reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behaviors that are often associated with ADHD.

Treatments for ADHD can significantly improve autism's primary symptoms and reduce impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. They can also reduce problem 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 situation for parents as well as children. However, medication is not always the best solution. While medication can help manage certain disorders that are typically associated with autism and improve overall function, they won't cure or make your child "normal."

Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are frequently diagnosed with ADHD. Studies show that stimulants can improve the primary symptoms of ADHD in children with ADHD, including hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most common stimulant. It works by increasing the dopamine activity in the brain. This is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood and reward systems.

Parents are often concerned about the effects of psychotropic medications on their children. Critics call them chemical straitjackets, making it easier for schools and parents to handle difficult behavior. Some also believe that the drugs don't tackle the underlying issues that cause autistic children so much stress. They include social interactions problems, anxiety, and repetitive, restricted behavior.

But if your child has autism and ADHD A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -- including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- are effective at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that may interfere with work, school and family life. The stimulants also seem to decrease irritability in these children.

The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) may aid in reducing irritability in children with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary conclusion. Further study is here needed to confirm the results and determine whether these drugs can help other types of irritability that are common to autism, such as aggression or self-injury.

Another issue is that the current studies don't analyze long-term use or other crucial factors, like the potential for abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive or use different methods than others, which makes it difficult to compare results. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth having a discussion with your physician to determine what medication might be appropriate 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 and ADHD However, it is not substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will assist you in determining the most effective dosage and medication to minimize side effects and ensure that it's helping your child. Medications can help your child concentrate, be more productive in school and at home, and participate fully in the programs that are meant to treat autism. This way your child can take the biggest steps forward possible.