Is Tech Making Medication For Autism And ADHD Better Or Worse?
Is Tech Making Medication For Autism And ADHD Better Or Worse?
Blog Article
Medication For Autism and ADHD
Many children and adults with autism take psychotropic medications. Certain of these medications can reduce the irritability or severe disruptive behaviors that are sometimes associated with ADHD.
Medications for ADHD can significantly improve core symptoms of autism and decrease inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. They can also help reduce problematic behaviors like aggression, self-injury, licking and picking as well as trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Stimulants
Autism can be extremely difficult for both parents and children, but medication is not always the solution. Medications can help manage certain disorders that are often associated with autism and can improve overall functioning however they aren't able to cure your child's autism or make them "normal."
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Children with autism are often diagnosed with ADHD. Studies have shown that stimulants can help improve the primary symptoms of ADHD in children, including hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. Methylphenidate also known as Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant. It improves the dopamine activity in the brain. It is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, behavior and reward systems.
Parents are often concerned about the effect of psychotropic medication on their children. Critics call them chemical straitjackets, which make it easier for parents and schools to deal with 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 interactions difficulties, anxiety and repetitive, recurrent behavior that is restricted.
A study published in Pediatrics discovered that stimulants, like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine, can be effective in reducing the core ADHD symptoms that can cause problems with school, family, and work life. These drugs also appear to decrease anger.
The same study revealed that atypical antipsychotics, like Aripiprazole and Risperidone (Abilify) can aid in reducing irritability in kids with autism and ADHD. This is a preliminary conclusion. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if these medications are able to help with other kinds of irritability, like aggression or injuries.
Another issue is that current studies don't focus on the long-term effects of using drugs or other aspects, such as the possibility for addiction. Additionally, some studies aren't that get more info large or employ different methods than others, which makes it difficult to compare outcomes. But if your child has ADHD and autism, it's worth having a conversation with your doctor to see what medication might be appropriate for your child.
Medication is an instrument that can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for families affected by autism and ADHD, but it is not a replacement for therapy or other treatments. Your doctor will assist you in determining the best medication and dosage to minimize the effects of side effects and ensure that it's helping your child. The use of medication can help your child focus and be more productive at school and at home, and participate fully in the programs that are designed to treat autism. Your child will be in a position to make the greatest advancements possible.