Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Medication For Autism And ADHD?
Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Medication For Autism And ADHD?
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Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many adults and children with autism take psychotropic medications. Some of these drugs can reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behavior that is often associated with ADHD.
The drugs for ADHD can help improve the core symptoms of Autism and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They also can reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, picking and licking, trichotillomania, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be a difficult situation for parents and children. However, medication is not always a solution. While medications can be helpful in managing certain conditions that are often associated with autism and enhance overall functioning but they aren't able to cure or make your child "normal."
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are frequently diagnosed with ADHD. Research has proven that stimulants can help improve the primary symptoms of ADHD in these children, such as hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is the most popular stimulant. It works by enhancing the production of dopamine in your brain. This neurotransmitter is used to regulate mood, behavior, as well as reward systems.
Many parents are concerned about the effects of psychotropic drugs on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets that make it easier for parents and schools to handle difficult behavior. Some argue that the drugs don't address the underlying problems that cause autistic kids so many problems. These include social difficulties, anxiety and restricted, repetitive behavior.
A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, can be effective in decreasing the primary ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with school, family as well as work. The medications also seem to decrease irritability in these children.
In the same study, it was found that atypical antipsychotics such as Risperidone and Aripiprazole may aid in reducing irritability in some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications help with other forms of irritability, such as aggression or injury.
Another concern is that the current studies do not analyze long-term use or other factors that are important, such as the potential for abuse. Additionally, some studies aren't that large or use different methods than others, making it difficult to compare outcomes. If your child is suffering from both ADHD and autism You should consult your doctor about the best medication for your child.
Medication can be a useful tool to manage symptoms and enhancing quality of life for families afflicted by ADHD and autism, but it shouldn't be used to replace therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will collaborate with you to determine the best dosage and medication to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure that it's helping your child. Your child can benefit from medication to improve his best adhd medication for adults with anxiety and depression or her focus and perform better at school and home and fully engage in the treatments designed to treat autism. This way your child can take the biggest steps forward possible.