10 Things Everybody Hates About Medication For Autism And ADHD
10 Things Everybody Hates About Medication For Autism And ADHD
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many people, both adults and children with autism use psychotropic drugs. Certain of these medications may help ease the irritability and severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes are common in ADHD.
The drugs for ADHD can improve the symptoms of Autism, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They also can reduce undesirable behaviors such as aggression, self-injury and licking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive signs.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult and challenging condition for parents and children. However medication isn't always a solution. Certain medications can help treat disorders that are often associated with autism and improve general functioning, but they won't 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 that include hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most frequently used stimulant. It works by enhancing the dopamine activity in your brain. This neurotransmitter helps control 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 allow schools and parents to deal with difficult behaviors. Some say that the medications don't address the root causes that cause autistic children so much distress, such as social interaction difficulties anxiety, as well as restricted, repetitive behaviors.
A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, including dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, are effective in decreasing the primary ADHD symptom that can interfere with family, school and work. These medications also seem to decrease anger.
The same study revealed that antipsychotics with atypical properties, such as aripiprazole and risperidone (Abilify), may help with irritability in some kids with autism and ADHD. However, this research is preliminary. Further research is required to confirm the results and determine if these medications could help with other forms of irritability that are common to autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another issue is that the current studies don't look at long-term use or other factors that are important, such as the possibility of abuse. Some here studies aren't as extensive or employ different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare the results. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a conversation with your doctor to determine what medication might be appropriate for him or her.
Medication can be an effective tool for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, however it should not be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will work closely 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 concentrate, be more productive in the classroom and at home, and take part in the treatments designed to treat autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest gains possible.