Five Killer Quora Answers To Medication For Autism And ADHD

Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many adults and children with autism use psychotropic drugs. Some of these drugs can help to reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behaviors that are sometimes caused by ADHD.

Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve core symptoms of autism and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce undesirable behaviors such as aggression, self-injury and licking, trichotillomania, and other obsessive compulsive signs.

Stimulants

Autism can be a very difficult and challenging condition for parents and children. However medications aren't always the answer. While medications 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."

Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for kids with autism to suffer from ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can reduce core ADHD symptoms in these children such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant. It improves the activity of dopamine within the brain. This is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood, and reward systems.

Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic who prescribes medication for adhd on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets that make it easier for parents and schools to deal with difficult behavior. Some say that the medications don't address the root causes that cause autistic children much distress, such as social difficulties, anxiety, and restricted, repetitive behavior.

If your child how does adhd medication work for adults have autism and ADHD, a study that was published in the journal Pediatrics discovered that stimulantssuch as methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the primary adhd medication options symptoms that can cause problems with school, work, and family life. The stimulants also appear to reduce irritability.

The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) may help with irritability in some kids with autism and prescribe adhd medication. However, this is preliminary. Further study is needed to confirm the results and determine whether these drugs could help with other forms of irritability that can accompany autism, such as aggression or self-injury.

Another reason to be concerned is that the current studies don't focus on long-term use or other crucial factors, such as the potential for addiction. And some studies are small or employ different methods than others, making it difficult to compare outcomes. If your child suffers from both ADHD and autism You should consult your doctor about the best medication for your child.

Medication is an instrument that can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life in families affected by autism and ADHD however, it should not be used as substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to find the best dosage and medication to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure that it is helping your child. Your child will benefit from medication to help his or her focus and be more productive at school and home and fully participate in the therapies meant to combat autism. This way your child can make the most effective adhd medication strides that they can.