Why We Why We Medication For Autism And ADHD (And You Should Also!)
Why We Why We Medication For Autism And ADHD (And You Should Also!)
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these medications can help ease the irritability and severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes occur with ADHD.
Treatments for ADHD can significantly improve core symptoms of autism and reduce inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce aggressive behaviors such as self-injury, licking, picking, trichotillomania and obsessive compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult situation for parents as well as children. However, medication is not always the answer. While medications can be helpful in managing certain conditions that are commonly associated with autism and can improve overall function but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."
The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are typically diagnosed with ADHD. Studies have shown that stimulants can help improve the core symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsiveness. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It works by enhancing the activity of dopamine in your brain. This is a neurotransmitter that aids in controlling mood, behavior and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the impact of psychotropic medications on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets that make it easier for parents and schools to deal with difficult behavior. Some also believe that the drugs do not address the underlying problems that cause autistic children so many problems. They include social issues, anxiety and restricted, repetitive behavior.
If your child does have autism and ADHD A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -- including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the primary ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with work, school, and family life. The stimulants also seem to decrease irritability in these kids.
In the same study, it was found that atypical Antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can reduce irritability in children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary finding. More research is needed to confirm these results and determine if these medicines are able to help with other kinds of irritability, such as aggression or injury.
Another issue is that the current studies do not 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. This makes it difficult to compare results. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a meeting with your physician to determine which medication is appropriate for him or her.
The use of medication can be a beneficial tool to manage symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, however it shouldn't be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work closely 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 concentrate, be more productive check here in school and at home and take part in the programs that are meant to treat autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant advancements possible.