Five Killer Quora Answers On Medication For Autism And ADHD

Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many people, both adults and children with autism take psychotropic medication. Certain medications can help to reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behaviors that are often associated with ADHD.

The use of medications for ADHD can dramatically improve core symptoms of autism and reduce impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, licking and picking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be extremely difficult for both parents and children, but medication for adhd is not always the solution. Certain medications can help treat conditions that can be associated with autism and 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 is not uncommon for children with autism to have ADHD and research shows that stimulants can help improve the primary ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most commonly used stimulant. It functions by enhancing the production of dopamine in your brain. This is a neurotransmitter that helps control behavior, mood, and reward systems.

Many parents are concerned about the negative effects of psychotropic medication on their children. They are described by critics as chemical straitjackets which make it easier for schools and parents to manage difficult behavior. Some also believe that the drugs do not address the underlying problems that cause autistic children much stress. They include social interaction problems, anxiety, and restricted, repetitive behavior.

If your child does have autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics found that stimulants- including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine -- are effective in reducing the main ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with school, work and family life. The stimulants also appear to reduce the irritability.

The same study also found that atypical antipsychotics, such as aripiprazole and risperidone (Abilify) can help with irritability among children with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary result. Further research is required to confirm the findings and determine if these medications may help other forms of irritability which can adhd medication help with memory be associated with autism, such as self-injury or aggression.

Another concern is that the current studies do not analyze long-term use or other important factors like the potential for abuse. Some studies aren't as extensive, or they use different methods than other. This makes it difficult to compare the results. However, if your child suffers from ADHD and autism, it's worth a meeting with your doctor to determine the right medication for him or her.

Medication is an instrument that is beneficial in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families with children who suffer from autism and ADHD, but it is not substitute for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to determine which medication to use and the dosage most popular adhd medication effective for your child. Your child can benefit from medication that helps him or her concentrate and be more productive at home and in school, and fully participate in the therapies designed to combat autism. This way, your child can make the most significant strides possible.