Why We Love Medication For Autism And ADHD (And You Should Too!)
Why We Love Medication For Autism And ADHD (And You Should Too!)
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism use psychotropic drugs. Some of these drugs can reduce the intensity of irritability and disruptive behaviors that are often caused by ADHD.
The drugs for ADHD can improve core symptoms of Autism and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury and licking, trichotillomania, and other obsessive compulsive behaviors.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely challenging for both parents and children, but medication is not always the solution. While medications can help manage certain conditions that are commonly associated with autism and improve overall function but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for kids with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD and research shows that stimulants can reduce core ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It works by increasing the production of dopamine in your brain. This is a neurotransmitter which regulates mood, behavior and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effect of psychotropic drugs on their children. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets, which help schools and parents to manage difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not tackle the underlying issues that cause autistic kids so much distress. These include social interactions difficulties, anxiety and repetitive, restricted behavior.
A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate are effective for reducing the core ADHD disorder that can hinder with family, school as well as work. These drugs also appear to reduce the irritability.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical Antipsychotics like Risperidone and Aripiprazole may aid in reducing irritability in some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm the results and determine if these medications can help other types of irritability that can accompany autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another issue is that current studies don't focus on long-term use or other important aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Some studies aren't as extensive, or they use different methods than other. This makes it difficult to compare results. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a discussion with your physician to determine which medication is appropriate for him or her.
Medication is a tool that can be beneficial in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families affected by autism and ADHD, but it should not be used as substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage most effective for your click here child. Your child may benefit from medication to help his or her focus and perform better at home and at school and fully engage in the treatments designed to treat autism. Your child will be in a position to make the greatest advancements possible.