14 Misconceptions Common To Medication For Autism And ADHD
14 Misconceptions Common To Medication For Autism And ADHD
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism use psychotropic medications. Some of these medications aid in reducing the irritability and severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes are common in ADHD.
The drugs for ADHD can help improve the core symptoms of Autism, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can also help reduce aggressive behaviors such as self-injury and licking, picking or trichotillomania as well as obsessive compulsive signs.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult and challenging condition for parents and children. However medication isn't always the answer. Medications can help manage certain conditions that often occur alongside autism and can improve general functioning but they can't fix your child's autism or make them "normal."
Stimulants are one of the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to be diagnosed with ADHD, and studies show that stimulants can reduce the primary ADHD symptoms in these kids that include hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most well-known stimulant. It improves the dopamine activity in the brain. This neurotransmitter helps control mood, behavior, and reward systems.
Parents are often concerned about the impact of psychotropic drugs on their children. Critics call them chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. Some also believe that the drugs don't address the underlying problems that cause autistic children much distress. They include social interactions problems, anxiety, and restricted, repetitive behavior.
A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, are effective in decreasing the primary ADHD symptom that can interfere with school, family and work. The stimulants also are believed to reduce the irritability of these children.
In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can help reduce irritability among some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary conclusion. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these drugs can help with other types of irritability, such as aggression or injuries.
Another issue is that the current studies do not analyze long-term use or other factors that are important, such as the potential for abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive or use different methods as compared to others, making it difficult to compare outcomes. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth a discussion with your doctor to see the right medication for him or her.
Medication can be a useful tool for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to substitute therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the most effective dosage and medication to minimize side effects and ensure that it is helping your child. Your child will benefit from medication that helps his or her focus and be more productive at school and home and fully participate in website the therapies designed to combat autism. Your child will be able to make the biggest progress possible.