Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children with autism use psychotropic drugs. Some of these drugs can help to reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behaviors that are often caused by ADHD.
The medications for ADHD can improve the symptoms of Autism, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression and self-injury, licking and picking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a very difficult situation for parents and children. However, medication is not always a solution. While medication can help manage certain conditions that are often associated with autism and improve overall functioning, they won't cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are one of the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. Children with autism are typically diagnosed with ADHD. Studies have shown that stimulants can help improve the primary symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsiveness. medication for add adults , or Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant. medication for adhd adults improves the amount of dopamine in the brain. This is a neurotransmitter which aids in controlling mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic medications on their children. Critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which help schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not solve the root issues that cause autistic kids so many problems. They include social issues, anxiety and repetitive, restricted behavior.
If your child is suffering from autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants- including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are effective in reducing the main ADHD symptoms that may interfere with work, school, and family life. These medications also seem to reduce the irritability.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can help reduce irritability among some children suffering from ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these drugs are able to help with other kinds of irritability, like aggression or injury.
Another issue is that current studies don't examine the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or employ different methods than others, which makes it difficult to compare results. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it's a good idea to have a discussion with your physician to determine which medication is appropriate for him or her.
The use of medication can be a beneficial instrument for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, however it should not be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best dosage and medication to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure it's working for your child. Your child will benefit from medication to help his or her focus, be more productive at school and home, and fully participate in the treatments designed to combat autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest progress possible.