Why We Do We Love Medication For Autism And ADHD (And You Should, Too!)

Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many adults and children with autism use psychotropic medications. Some of these medications aid in reducing the irritability and extreme disruptive behaviors that can are common in ADHD.

The use of medications for ADHD can significantly improve autism's primary symptoms and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury and licking, trichotillomania and obsessive compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be extremely difficult for both children and parents, but medication is not always the answer. Medications can help manage certain conditions that can be associated with autism and can help improve the overall quality of life 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 suffer from ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can help improve the primary ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. It improves the activity of dopamine within the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, behavior and reward systems.

Parents are often concerned about the impact of psychotropic medications on their children. Critics describe them as chemical straitjackets that allow schools and parents to manage difficult behaviors. Some say that the medications don't address the underlying issues that cause autistic children much stress, including social difficulties anxiety, fear, and restricted, repetitive behavior.

A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, including dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, are effective in reduction of the core ADHD disorder that can hinder with family, school and work. These medications also seem to decrease irritability in these kids.

The same study also found that antipsychotics with atypical properties, such as Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify), may aid in reducing irritability in children with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary result. Further research is needed to confirm these results and determine if these medications can help with other types of irritability such as read more aggression or injuries.

Another concern is that current studies don't examine long-term use or other crucial aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Some studies are small or use different methods than other. This makes it difficult to compare the results. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it's worth a discussion with your doctor to see what medication might be appropriate for your child.

Medication is an instrument that is useful for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families with children who suffer from autism and ADHD however, it should not be used as substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine which medication to use and the dosage that's most effective for your child. Medications can help your child concentrate and perform better at the classroom and at home, and take part in the treatments intended to treat autism. This way your child can make the most significant strides that they can.