Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many children and adults with autism use psychotropic medications. Some of these drugs can reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behaviors that are often caused by ADHD.

The drugs for ADHD can help improve the core symptoms of Autism and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also reduce aggressive behaviors such as self-injury, licking, picking, trichotillomania, and other obsessive compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be a difficult condition for both parents and children. However medication isn't always a solution. While medication can help manage certain conditions that are commonly associated with autism and improve overall functioning however they will not cure or make your child "normal."

Stimulants are one of the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are often diagnosed with ADHD. Studies have shown that stimulants can aid in reducing the primary symptoms of ADHD in children with ADHD, including hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases the amount of dopamine in the brain. This is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, behavior and reward systems.

Parents are often concerned about the impact of psychotropic drugs on their children. Some critics call them chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for parents and schools here to deal with difficult behavior. Some argue that the drugs don't address the underlying problems that cause autistic children many problems. These include social difficulties, anxiety and repetitive, restricted behavior.

If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulantswhich include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the main ADHD symptoms that may interfere with school, work, and family life. The stimulants also appear to reduce the irritability.

The same study found that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) can help with irritability among children with autism and ADHD. But this finding is still preliminary. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine if these medications may help other forms of irritability that are common to autism, like aggression or self-injury.

Another concern is that studies currently conducted don't consider the long-term effects of using drugs or other factors, like the potential for addiction. Some studies are small or use different methods from others. This makes it difficult to compare results. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it's worth a conversation with your doctor to determine which medication is appropriate for your child.

Medication can be an effective tool to manage symptoms and improving quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it should not be used to replace therapy or other therapies. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best medication and dosage to reduce the risk of side effects and ensure that it is helping your child. Your child may benefit from medication that helps him or her concentrate, be more productive at home and in school, and fully participate in the therapies designed to treat autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest progress possible.