Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children with autism take psychotropic medications. Certain of these medications may aid in reducing the irritability and extreme disruptive behaviors that can occur with ADHD.
Treatments for ADHD can dramatically improve the core symptoms of autism and decrease impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, picking and licking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely challenging for both children and parents, but medication is not always the answer. Medicines can help manage certain disorders that are often associated with autism and can improve the overall quality of life, but they won't cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. It is not uncommon for children with autism to have ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can reduce the core ADHD symptoms in these kids such as hyperactivity as well as inattention and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases 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 effect of psychotropic medications on their children. They are described by critics as chemical straitjackets that allow schools and parents to manage difficult behaviors. And some people claim that the drugs don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic kids so many problems, including social interactions anxiety, as well as limited, repetitive behaviors.
If your child is suffering from autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -which include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- are effective at reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can interfere with school, work, and family life. The stimulants also appear to reduce irritability in these children.
The same study found that atypical antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole and risperidone (Abilify), may help with irritability among kids with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary conclusion. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medicines can help with other types of irritability, like 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. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or use different methods than others, which makes it hard to compare outcomes. If your child is suffering from both ADHD and autism it is important to talk with your doctor about the most appropriate medication for him or her.
Medication is an instrument that is helpful in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families with children who suffer from autism and ADHD, but it is not a replacement for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best medication and dosage to minimize side effects and ensure that it's helping your child. Your child can benefit from medication that helps him or her concentrate and perform better at home and adhd medication ritalin at school and fully engage in the treatments designed to help treat autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant gains possible.