Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Certain of these medications may help reduce the irritability as well as severe disruptive behavior that can occur with ADHD.
Treatments for ADHD can dramatically improve core symptoms of autism and reduce the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They can also reduce problem behaviors such as aggression and self-injury, licking and picking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely challenging for both parents and children however, medication isn't always the solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain disorders that are typically associated with autism and can improve overall function however they will not cure or make your child "normal."
The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can improve the primary ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It works by enhancing the dopamine activity in your brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate the mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Parents are often concerned about the impact of psychotropic medication on their children. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which allow schools and parents to manage difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic children so many problems, including social interaction difficulties anxiety, fear, and restricted, repetitive behavior.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -- including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- work at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with work, school, and family life. These medications also are believed to reduce the irritability of these children.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone could help reduce irritability among some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary finding. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine if these medications can help other types of irritability that are common to autism, such as self-injury or aggression.
Another concern is that studies currently conducted don't consider the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Some studies are small, or they use different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare the results. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth having a meeting with your doctor to determine which medication is appropriate for him or her.
Medication is an instrument that is here beneficial in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families affected by autism and ADHD, but it shouldn't be used as an alternative to therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage that's most efficient for your child. The use of medication can help your child focus and be more productive at school and at home, and take part in the therapies that are meant to treat his or her autism. So your child can make the most significant strides that they can.