What Will Medication For Autism And ADHD Be Like In 100 Years?

What Will Medication For Autism And ADHD Be Like In 100 Years?

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Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medications. Some of these drugs can help to reduce the severity of disruptive or irritable behavior that is often caused by ADHD.

Treatments for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's primary symptoms and decrease the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They can also reduce problem behaviors like aggression and self-injury, licking and picking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Stimulants

Autism can be a huge challenge for both parents and children However, medication isn't always the answer. Medications can help manage certain disorders that are often associated with autism and improve general functioning, but they won't cure your child's autism or make them "normal."

Stimulants are among the most common medications prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to suffer from ADHD and research has shown that stimulants can reduce the core ADHD symptoms in these children that include hyperactivity as well as inattention and impulsivity. Methylphenidate, or Ritalin is the most commonly used stimulant. It works by increasing the activity of dopamine within the brain. This neurotransmitter aids in controlling the mood, behavior, and reward systems.

Many parents are concerned about the consequences of psychotropic medication on their children. They are often referred to as chemical straitjackets, making it easier for schools and parents to manage difficult behavior. Some people also argue that the drugs do not solve the root issues that cause autistic kids so much stress. They include social interaction problems, anxiety, and repetitive, restricted behavior.

A study published in Pediatrics found that stimulants, such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate, can be effective in reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with family, school and work. The stimulants also appear to reduce irritability.

In the same study, it was discovered that atypical antipsychotics like Aripiprazole and Risperidone can help reduce irritability among some children with ADHD and autism. This is a preliminary finding. More research is needed here to confirm the results and determine whether these drugs can help other types of irritability that are common to autism, like self-injury or aggression.

Another concern is that studies currently conducted don't consider the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Some studies aren't as extensive, or they use different methods from others. This makes it difficult to compare results. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it's worth a conversation with your physician to determine what medication might be appropriate for him or her.

Medication is an instrument that is useful for 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 collaborate with you to determine the most effective dosage and medication to minimize side effects and ensure it's working for your child. Your child may benefit from medication that helps his or her focus, be more productive at home and at school and fully participate in the therapies meant to treat autism. So your child can take the biggest steps forward that they can.