Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children who have autism take psychotropic medications. Some of these drugs can help reduce the intensity of irritability and disruptive behavior that is often caused by ADHD.
The medication for ADHD can improve the symptoms of Autism, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, licking, picking, trichotillomania and obsessive compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult situation for parents as well as children. However medication isn't always the best solution. Certain medications can help treat conditions that can be associated with autism and improve general functioning however they aren't able to cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. It is not uncommon for children with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can help improve core ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. It improves the dopamine activity in the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood, 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 handle difficult behavior. Some argue that the drugs do not tackle the underlying issues that cause autistic children so much distress. They include social interactions difficulties, anxiety and restricted, repetitive behavior.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants- including 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.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical Antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone could reduce irritability in children with ADHD and autism. But medication for add in adults is still preliminary. More research is needed to confirm the findings and determine whether these drugs could help with other forms of irritability that can accompany autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another concern is that studies currently conducted don't consider the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. And some studies are small or use different methods as compared to others, making it difficult to compare results. If your child has both ADHD and autism, you should talk to your doctor about the best medication for your child.
Medication can be a useful instrument for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it should not be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to find the most effective dosage and medication to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure it's working for your child. The use of medication can help your child concentrate and be more productive at school and at home, and fully participate in the programs that are meant to treat their autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest gains possible.