14 Common Misconceptions About Medication For Autism And ADHD
14 Common Misconceptions About Medication For Autism And ADHD
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults who have autism take psychotropic medication. Certain of these medications can help to reduce the intensity of irritability and disruptive behaviors that are often associated with ADHD.
Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve the autism's primary symptoms and decrease the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression and self-injury, licking and picking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult situation for parents and children. However, medication is not always the best solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain conditions that are commonly associated with autism, and may enhance overall functioning, they won't cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are typically diagnosed with ADHD. Studies have shown that stimulants can improve the main symptoms of ADHD in children with ADHD, including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most common stimulant. It improves the amount of dopamine in the brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate mood, behavior, as well as reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the negative effects of psychotropic medication on their children. Some critics describe them as chemical straitjackets which make it easier for schools and parents to handle difficult behaviors. Some people also say that the medications don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic children so much distress, such as social interactions, anxiety, and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulantswhich 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 here appear to decrease the irritability.
In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics such as Risperidone and Aripiprazole may aid in reducing irritability in some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications help with other forms of irritability, such as aggression or injuries.
A second concern is that the current studies don't analyze long-term use or other crucial factors, like the possibility of abuse. And some studies are small or employ different methods than others, making it difficult to compare results. If your child is suffering from both ADHD and autism You should consult your doctor about the best medication for him or her.
The use of medication can be a beneficial instrument for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, however it should not be used to replace therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best medication to use and the dosage that's most efficient for your child. Medicines can help your child concentrate, be more productive in school and at home and take part in the therapies that are meant to treat his or her autism. Your child will be capable of making the most significant progress possible.