15 Surprising Facts About Medication For Autism And ADHD

15 Surprising Facts About Medication For Autism And ADHD

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Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many adults and children who have autism take psychotropic medication. Certain of these medications may help reduce the irritability as well as severe disruptive behavior that can occur in ADHD.

Treatments for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's core symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury and licking, trichotillomania, and other obsessive compulsive behaviors.

Stimulants

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

The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to have ADHD and research shows that stimulants can improve core ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most common stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of dopamine within the brain. This is a neurotransmitter which aids in controlling mood, behavior, and reward systems.

Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic medication on their children. Some critics call them chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for schools and parents to deal with difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not solve the root issues that cause autistic children so much stress. These include social interactions problems, anxiety, and repetitive, restricted behavior.

If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants -which include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- work in reducing the primary ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with school, work, and family life. These medications also seem to decrease irritability in these kids.

In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics such as Aripiprazole and Risperidone can help reduce irritability among some children suffering from ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary conclusion. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications are able to help with other kinds of irritability, like aggression or injury.

Another concern is that current studies don't focus on the long-term effects of using drugs or other factors, like the potential for addiction. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or employ different methods as compared to others, making it hard to compare outcomes. If your child is suffering from both ADHD and autism it is important to talk with your doctor about the best medication for your child.

Medication is a tool that can be useful for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families affected by autism or ADHD however, it is not a replacement for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best medication and dosage to minimize side effects and ensure that it's helping your child. Medicines website can help your child to focus and be more productive at the classroom and at home, and take part in the programs that are intended to treat his or her autism. That way your child can make the most strides possible.