How Medication For Autism And ADHD Has Transformed My Life The Better

Medication for Autism and ADHD

Parents of children and youth with co-occurring ASD and ADHD have reported high rates of use of medications. However, research on psychopharmacological treatments is limited in both number and type.

Risperidone and aripiprazole, also known as Risperdal and Abilify, are the only medications that have been approved by the FDA to be used by children with autism for the reduction of irritability and aggressive behavior. However, other medications can also be helpful.

Antipsychotics

While interest in co-occurring ADHD and ASD symptoms has increased, research remains limited. A variety of psychosocial therapies are available for each disorder but few studies have characterized the effectiveness of treatment in the context of co-occurring symptoms. A better understanding of how co-occurring disorders develop and interact over time is crucial to inform both pharmacological and psychosocial treatments.

Many people with ASD suffer from ADHD and other mental conditions such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can be treated using various psychosocial treatments, including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) as well as family therapy, as well as interpersonal therapy. These psychosocial treatments are more effective than pharmacological treatments for some people who have ADHD/ASD comorbidity.

For the most fundamental ASD symptoms, such as poor social communication skills and rigid thinking, non-drug interventions are usually preferred. These include peer support groups and behavioral training. For comorbid ADHD and ASD symptoms such as aggression, irritability and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, medications can be helpful. Atypical antipsychotics do not improve the core ASD symptoms and the evidence for this is at best sporadic.

Current hypotheses suggest symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and ADHD are mediated through abnormalities in neurotransmitter pathways. This is particularly those involving glutamate dopamine and serotonin.2 This changes impact mesocorticolimbic and prefrontal cortex which is involved in emotional regulation and behavior control.

Certain of these disorders are thought to be due to a decrease in activity in certain brain regions, such as the striatum. To treat ADHD and ASD there are a variety of medications that alter dopamine or glutamate levels are under investigation.

Different types are being studied to treat co-occurring ADHD symptoms and ASD and ASD, including risperidone Aripiprazole, aripiprazole and domperidone. The emergence of a common nomenclature for dopamine antagonists is in the process of being developed.

As with all medication there are a variety of people who respond similarly to antipsychotics. Randomized controlled trials offer the best data on the use of aripiprazole or risperidone for people with ASD or ADHD. These trials used parallel crossover and withdrawal plans. In general, these medications are more effective than placebo at reducing irritability, aggression and enhancing performance. They are also generally well tolerated. However, one-third of those who take these medicines will discover that they are effective for all or most of their symptoms. However, the remaining two-thirds will experience only partial improvement.

Stimulants

Although non-medical care is typically recommended for autism, medication may be beneficial for certain adults and children. Antipsychotics, for instance, can ease anxiety and decrease self-injurious behavior and stimulants such as methylphenidate, which aids in the treatment of ADHD symptoms, can enhance the ability to concentrate. However, these medications do not tackle the underlying autism issues like repetitive and limited interests or difficulty communicating. Many adults and children with autism also suffer from co-occurring mental health issues such as depression, mood disorders, or anxiety that hinder everyday functioning.

Autisme can also cause irritation in adults and children. This can lead outbursts and self-injury, as well as difficulties with routines or transitions. Risperdal (Risperdal), and aripiprazole (Abilify), are the only medications that are approved to treat autism-related irritability. The drugs are believed to work by affecting dopamine, which is a brain system that is involved in decisions and emotions.

Full Record  prescribed ADHD medication is methylphenidate such as Ritalin and mixed amphetamine salts that increase dopamine activity in frontal lobe regions of the brain. Certain studies suggest that these medications are just as effective in treating those suffering from autism and ADHD as they are for people with pure ADHD. However some studies suggest they may not be as effective. It's important that parents consult their physician about whether the benefits of these medications outweigh any possible side effects.

Some researchers believe that second-line ADHD medication like atomoxetine and guanfacine may be more helpful in the reduction of ADHD symptoms for people with autism. These drugs are believed be effective by interfacing with the dopamine and norepinephrine systems, which are associated with motivation and mood.

The psychiatrist and a behavioral therapist, are working hard to help him improve his social skills and manage his anxiety. Even with these interventions, hyperactivity and inattention may be a hindrance to his development. So his family decided to test an ADHD medication to help him concentrate.

After three months, he's become more focused at school and in his daily activities. Parents can tell that he is more attentive and listens to what other people speak and participates in group activities. His mother says that the medication has been an absolute lifesaver.

Benzodiazepines

The benzodiazepines comprise a category of drugs that reduce the central nervous system, producing an euphoria and calm mood. These are used to treat a wide variety of ailments such as anxiety disorders, seizures and insomnia. They target specific GABA receptors (gamma aminobutyric acid) which is a neurotransmitter that blocks brainwaves and the communication between neurons. By keeping GABA receptors open for longer and allowing them to open more the benzodiazepines improve inhibition and stop excitatory neuron overactivity. The theory suggests that the defining traits of autism are due to an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmissions within the brain. Animal models support this hypothesis and show that clonazepam can reverse some autistic behaviors in mice with Dravet syndrome, a type of epilepsy.

Anxiety is often a co-occurring disorder in people with autism spectrum disorders. In some cases anxiety can be the cause of aggressive or self-injurious behaviors. In other instances anxiety is a reaction to sensory issues which make life difficult.

Treatment options include antidepressants, which are thought to improve coping skills and self-esteem by increasing the levels of the chemical norepinephrine in the brain. They also decrease reuptakes of neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. This can help reduce anxiety and irritability. Atypical antipsychotics like risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify) can assist with irritability, aggression, and Tourette syndrome in people with autism.

There's some evidence that melatonin may increase the duration and quality of sleep for adults with ASD. There are no controlled studies in this group. Methylphenidate may be effective in treating ADHD in children with ASD. However it's not nearly as effective in typical-developing kids.

The medications for autism and ADHD could be harmful when not used correctly. The most important thing to do is consult with your physician to find the best medication and dosage for your child or teenager. Always follow the instructions on the medication label. Do not stop or change the dosage of your medication abruptly, as it could be extremely risky. If you suspect that you or someone you know has taken too much medication, seek emergency help immediately. Record your child's weight and height frequently as well as their menstrual cycle to ensure the medication isn't causing undesirable side effects.

Medication Options

Both of these conditions are common among children with autism. The use of medication is usually part of the treatment plan for both. The most common ADHD medications -- amphetamines and methylphenidate, Strattera, and guanfacine can also be used to treat the impulsivity and hyperactivity of autism.

In addition, certain children with autism are prone to severe irritability and aggression and these signs can be difficult to manage with behavior strategies on their own. The use of medications like Abilify and Risperdal can reduce aggression and self-injury through altering a neurotransmitter known as dopamine. These medications have not been approved by the FDA for use with children with autism. However, they are sometimes prescribed 'off-label' to treat specific symptoms.

It is essential parents discuss with their pediatricians if medication is suitable for their child. A number of studies show that children who are on ADHD medications to treat autism coexisting with it can have an improved quality of life at home as well as at school and can make significant academic, behavioral and social progress.

Psychiatrists have been trained to assist children suffering from the symptoms of ADHD and autism. They may recommend behaviorally focused parent training, which involves manual and group-based programs that teach parents skills to minimize disruptive behavior. They can also provide psychosocial treatments that focus on improving communication and relationships between the family members.

Some families, however, prefer using medication to manage their child's behavior. Certain parents find that antipsychotics can have a calming effect on their child which can improve irritability and aggression.

Similar to the above, many children who have autism also have mental health issues that affects their ability to learn and function, like depression or anxiety. These conditions are often co-occurring and can hinder the effectiveness of therapy. For these children, a combination of cognitive therapy and medication may be beneficial. This approach is particularly beneficial for children with severe autism or who do not respond to other therapies.