15 Surprising Stats About Medication For Autism And ADHD
15 Surprising Stats About Medication For Autism And ADHD
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism use psychotropic medications. Certain of these medications may help ease the irritability and severe disruptive behavior that can occur with ADHD.
The drugs for ADHD can improve the symptoms of Autism and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, picking and licking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely challenging for parents and children However, medication isn't always the answer. While medication can help manage certain conditions that are often associated with autism and enhance overall functioning, they won't cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are often diagnosed with ADHD. Research has proven that stimulants can improve the main symptoms of ADHD in children, including hyperactivity, inattention, and an impulsiveness. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It works by increasing the production of dopamine in your brain. This neurotransmitter helps control mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic medication on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets, making it easier for parents and schools to handle difficult behavior. Some argue that the drugs don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic children much stress, including social interactions anxiety, as well as restricted, repetitive behavior.
A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate can be effective in reduction of the core ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with family, school as well as work. These medications also appear to reduce irritability in these children.
In the same study, it was discovered that atypical antipsychotics such as Aripiprazole and Risperidone could aid in reducing irritability in some children suffering from ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary result. Further research is required to confirm the findings and determine whether these drugs can help other types of irritability that are common to autism, like self-injury or aggression.
Another concern is that current studies don't focus on the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Certain studies are insignificant, or they use different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare results. But if here your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a conversation with your physician to determine the right medication for him or her.
Medication can be an effective tool for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, however it should not be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage that's most efficient for your child. The use of medication can help your child concentrate and be more productive at school and at home and participate fully in the programs that are meant to treat autism. Your child will be in a position to make the greatest advancements possible.