Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children with autism use psychotropic medication. Some of these medications aid in reducing the irritability and severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes occur in ADHD.
The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's primary symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also reduce problem behaviors such as aggression and self-injury, picking and licking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely difficult for both parents and children however, medication isn't always the solution. While medications can help manage certain conditions that are commonly associated with autism, and may enhance overall functioning however they will not cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are often diagnosed with ADHD. Research has proven that stimulants can help improve the core symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsiveness. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most well-known stimulant. It improves the activity of dopamine within the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood, and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the negative effects of psychotropic medications on their children. Critics call them chemical straitjackets, making it easier for parents and schools to handle difficult behavior. Some say that the medications do not address the root issues that cause autistic kids so much stress, including social interactions anxiety, as well as limited, repetitive behaviors.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -such as methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are effective at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can interfere with school, work and family life. The medications also appear to reduce irritability in these children.
The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify), may aid in reducing irritability in kids with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary result. Further study is needed to confirm the findings and determine if these medications could help with other forms of irritability that are common to autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another concern is that current studies don't focus on the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. And medication for adhd are small or employ different methods as compared to others, making it hard to compare outcomes. If your child suffers from both ADHD and autism, you should talk to your doctor about the most appropriate medication for him or her.
Medication can be an effective instrument for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to replace therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best dosage and medication to reduce the risk of side effects and ensure that it is helping your child. The use of medication can help your child concentrate, be more productive in school and at home and fully participate in the programs that are meant to treat autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant advancements possible.