Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Other Ways To Say Medication For Autism And ADHD

Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Other Ways To Say Medication For Autism And ADHD

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Medication For Autism and ADHD

Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medication. Some of these medications can aid in reducing the irritability and severe disruptive behaviours that sometimes occur in ADHD.

Medications for ADHD can dramatically improve autism's core symptoms and decrease the severity of impulsivity, inattention, as well as hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury and licking, trichotillomania, and other obsessive compulsive behaviors.

Stimulants

Autism can be extremely challenging for both children and parents however, medication isn't always the answer. Medicines can help manage certain conditions that often occur alongside autism and improve general functioning but they can't fix your child's autism or make them "normal."

The majority of stimulants are prescribed for ADHD. It's not uncommon for children with autism to have ADHD, and studies show that stimulants can help improve core ADHD symptoms in these children, including hyperactivity inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, is the most well-known 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 drugs on their children. They are described by critics as chemical straitjackets which help schools and parents to deal with difficult behaviors. And some people claim that the drugs do not address the root issues that cause autistic children so much distress, such as social difficulties anxiety, fear, and restricted, repetitive behaviors.

But if your child has autism and ADHD, a study published in the journal Pediatrics discovered that stimulantswhich include methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine -- work in reducing the main ADHD symptoms that can interfere with school, work and family life. The stimulants also appear to reduce irritability in these children.

The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) may aid in reducing irritability in kids with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary result. More research is needed to confirm the findings and determine whether these drugs may help other forms of irritability which can be associated with autism, like self-injury or aggression.

Another concern is that the current studies don't examine long-term adhd stimulant medication usage or other crucial factors, like the possibility of abuse. Some studies are small or employ different methods than others. This makes it difficult to compare results. If your child is suffering from both ADHD and autism, you should talk to your doctor about the best medication for him or her.

Medication is an instrument that is helpful in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families affected by autism and ADHD however, it should not be used as a replacement for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will work with you to find the best medication and dosage to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure it's working for your child. Your child will benefit from medication to help him or her focus, be more productive at home and in school and fully participate in the treatments designed to treat autism. That way your child will be able to take the biggest steps forward that they can.