Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these drugs can reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behavior that is often associated with ADHD.
Medications for ADHD can significantly improve autism's core symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce undesirable behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, licking, picking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive behaviors.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult situation for parents and children. However medication isn't always the best solution. Medications can help manage certain conditions that often occur alongside autism and improve general functioning however they aren't able to cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. It is not uncommon for children with autism to suffer from ADHD, and studies show that stimulants can improve core ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity as well as inattention and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases the dopamine activity in the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, behavior and reward systems.
However, many parents worry about the effects of psychotropic medication on their children. They are described by critics as chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behaviors. Some people also argue that the drugs do not solve the root issues that cause autistic kids so much distress. They include social interaction problems, anxiety, and repetitive, recurrent behavior that is restricted.
A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, can be effective in reduction of the core ADHD symptom that can interfere with school, family, and work life. These drugs also appear to decrease anger.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical Antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone could reduce more info irritability in children suffering from ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary finding. More research is needed to confirm the findings 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 do not examine long-term usage or other important factors like the possibility of abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive or employ different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare results. If your child suffers from both ADHD and autism it is important to talk with your doctor about the best medication for him or her.
The use of medication can be a beneficial instrument for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the most effective medication to use and the dosage that's most efficient for your child. Your child can benefit from medication to improve him 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 able to make the biggest advancements possible.