20 Things You Need To Be Educated About Medication For Autism And ADHD

Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many adults and children with autism take psychotropic medication. Certain medications can reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behaviors that are often caused by ADHD.

The drugs for ADHD can improve core symptoms of Autism and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors such as aggression and self-injury, picking and licking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be a very difficult condition for both parents as well as children. However medications aren't always the answer. While medications can be helpful in managing certain disorders that are typically associated with autism and improve overall function but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."

Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are often diagnosed with ADHD. Studies show that stimulants can improve the main symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, is the most common stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate the mood, behavior, and reward systems.

However, many parents worry about the effect of psychotropic medications on their children. They are described by critics as chemical straitjackets, which help schools and parents to manage difficult behaviors. Some people also argue that the drugs don't solve the root issues that cause autistic kids so many problems. They include social difficulties, anxiety and repetitive, recurrent behavior that is restricted.

A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, including dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate can be effective in reduction of the core ADHD disorder that can hinder with school, family and work. The stimulants also appear to reduce irritability.

The same study found that atypical antipsychotics, such as Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) can help with irritability in some children with autism and ADHD. However, this research is in the early stages. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine if these medications could help with other forms of irritability that can accompany autism, such as self-injury or aggression.

Another issue is that the current studies don't examine long-term usage or other factors that are important, such as the possibility of abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive or employ different methods than others, which makes it difficult to compare outcomes. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth a discussion with your doctor to see which here medication is appropriate for him or her.

Medication can be a useful tool to manage symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to replace therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage that is most efficient for your child. Your child will benefit from medication to help him or her focus and be more productive at home and at school and fully engage in the treatments designed to treat autism. So, your child can take the biggest steps forward that they can.