Three Reasons Why 3 Reasons Why Your Medication For Autism And ADHD Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
Three Reasons Why 3 Reasons Why Your Medication For Autism And ADHD Is Broken (And How To Repair It)
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children who have autism take psychotropic medications. Certain of these medications can help to reduce the intensity of irritability and disruptive behaviors that are sometimes associated with ADHD.
Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's primary symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They also can reduce undesirable behaviors such as aggression, self-injury and licking, picking, trichotillomania and obsessive compulsive behaviors.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult and challenging condition for parents and children. However medication isn't always a solution. Certain medications can help treat disorders that are often associated with autism and can help 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's not uncommon for children with autism to suffer from ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can help improve the core ADHD symptoms in these kids such as hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most common stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of dopamine within the brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate mood, behavior, as well as reward systems.
Parents are often concerned about the effects of psychotropic medication on their children. Some critics call them chemical straitjackets, making it easier for schools and parents to handle difficult behavior. Some people also say that the medications don't address the root causes that cause autistic children much distress, such as social interactions, anxiety, and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -which include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the primary ADHD symptoms that may interfere with school, work, and family life. The stimulants also appear to decrease anger.
In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can aid in reducing irritability in some children natural adhd medication with ADHD and autism. However, this research is preliminary. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications are able to help with other kinds of irritability such as aggression or injury.
Another concern is that the current studies don't examine long-term usage or other factors that are important, such as the potential for abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive or employ different methods than others, making it hard to compare outcomes. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth having a meeting with your doctor to determine which medication is appropriate for him or her.
The use of medication can be a beneficial tool to manage symptoms and improving quality of life for families affected by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage most effective for your child. Your child will benefit from medication to help his or her focus and be more productive at home and in school, and fully participate in the therapies meant to help treat autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant advancements possible.