5 Facts Medication For Autism And ADHD Is Actually A Positive Thing

Medication for Autism and ADHD
Parents of children who have co-occurring ASD/ADHD report high rates of use of medications. However, research on psychopharmacological treatments is limited in both number and type.
Risperidone (Risperdal) and Aripiprazole (Abilify) are the only medications approved by the FDA for use by children with autism to help reduce aggression and irritability. But some other drugs can also be helpful.
Antipsychotics
Research on co-occurring ADHD symptoms and ASD remains limited, despite the growing interest. There are a variety of psychosocial treatment options that are available for each disorder but few studies have characterized the effectiveness of treatment in the context of co-occurring symptoms. It is important to understand the nature of the interplay between co-occurring disorders and how they develop over time. This will inform both pharmacological and psychosocial treatments.
Many people suffering from ASD have ADHD and other mental conditions such as anxiety or depression. There are many psychosocial treatments for these disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy and family therapy. These psychosocial treatments are more effective than pharmacological treatments for people with ADHD/ASD comorbidity.
For core ASD symptoms such as inability to communicate socially and rigid thinking, non-drug interventions are generally preferred. These include behavioral training as well as peer support groups. In the case of comorbid ADHD and ASD symptoms such as aggression, irritability and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder medication can be helpful. However Atypical antipsychotics haven't been shown to improve the fundamental ASD symptoms, and the evidence for these drugs is weak at best.
Current theories suggest that the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders and ADHD are caused by alterations in neurotransmitter signalling pathways, especially those that involve glutamate, dopamine and serotonin.2 These changes impact on prefrontal cortex and mesocorticolimbic circuitry that are involved in emotional regulation and behaviour control.3
A few of these issues are believed to be caused by reduced activity in specific brain regions, including the striatum. Therefore, a number of drugs that are believed to modulate dopamine and glutamate are being studied to help in the treatment of ADHD and ASD co-morbidities.
Several types of dopamine antagonists are being investigated for the treatment of co-occurring ADHD and ASD symptoms such as risperidone (Risperdal, Janssen Pharmaceutical Inc.; Titusville, NJ), aripiprazole (Abilify, Otsuka America Pharmaceutical Inc.; Rockville, MD), and domperidone (Motilium, Johnson & Johnson; New Brunswick, NJ). The emergence of a common nomenclature for dopamine antagonists is pending.
Antipsychotics are just like any other medication. Randomized controlled trials provide the most reliable information about the use of aripiprazole or risperidone for adults suffering from ASD or ADHD. These trials used parallel, crossover and withdrawal designs. In general, these drugs are more effective than placebo in cutting down on aggression, irritability and improving function. The drugs are generally well tolerated. However, only one-third of people who use these medications will find that they work for all or a majority of their symptoms, and the remaining two-thirds will experience only minor improvement.
Stimulants
Although non-medical care is not typically recommended for autism, medication could be beneficial for certain children and adults. Antipsychotics can ease anxiety and self-injurious behaviors, while stimulants such as methylphenidate (which helps with ADHD symptoms) can boost concentration. However, these medications do not tackle the underlying autism issues like restricted and repetitive interests or difficulty communicating. Many people, both adults and children, who are autistic also suffer from mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. These conditions can affect with the daily functioning of a person.
Autism can also cause irritation in adults and children. This can lead outbursts and self-injury as well as difficulties with routines or transitions. Atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are the only approved medications for treating autism-related anger. They are believed to affect the brain's dopamine system, which is involved in emotions and decision-making.
The most frequently prescribed ADHD medication are methylphenidate, like Ritalin and Ritalin, as well as mixed amphetamine salts that boost dopamine levels in the frontal lobes of the brain. Certain studies suggest that these medications are as effective for patients with autism and ADHD as they are for those who have pure ADHD, though other studies suggest that they may be less helpful. Regardless, it's important for parents to talk with their doctor to determine whether or whether the benefits outweigh the possible side effects from these drugs.
Some researchers believe that second-line ADHD medications like atomoxetine and guanfacine may be more effective in decreasing ADHD symptoms for those with autism. These medications are thought to affect the dopamine-norepinephrine system, which is linked to motivation and mood.
Connor's therapist and psychiatrist are working hard to teach him social skills and help him cope with his anxiety. Even with these interventions hyperactivity and inattention can be a hindrance to his progress. Therefore, his family decided to try an ADHD medication to help him focus.
After three months, he's more focused in school and his daily activities. Parents can tell that he is more attentive and attentive to what others are saying and is more involved in group activities. His mother claims that the medication has saved her life.
Benzodiazepines
The benzodiazepines are a group of drugs that slow the central nervous system, leading to tranquility and sleep. These medications are used to treat many conditions, including anxiety disorders, seizures, and insomnia. They target specific receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) which inhibits brain waves and blocks communication between neurons. By opening GABA receptors and keeping them open for longer, benzodiazepines boost inhibition and prevent excitatory neurons from overactivating. The idea is that the hallmark behavioral features of autism are fueled by an imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmissions in the brain. This hypothesis is supported by animal models which demonstrate that clonazepam can reverse certain autistic behaviors in mice with Dravet Syndrome, a type of epilepsy.
Anxiety is often a co-occurring disorder for people suffering from autism spectrum disorders. In some cases anxiety may be the primary reason behind an individual's aggressive or self-injurious behavior. In other instances, it's a response to sensory issues that cause difficulty and cause anxiety.
Antidepressants are one of the treatment options. They boost the levels of norepinephrine, which is a chemical found in the brain that is thought to boost self-esteem and coping. They also reduce reuptakes of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. This can help reduce anxiety and irritability. Atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone and aripiprazole are able to aid people suffering from autism, aggression, irritability and Tourette syndrome.
There is see here that melatonin may increase the duration and quality of sleep in adults with ASD. There aren't any studies that have been conducted in this group. Methylphenidate has proven effective in treating ADHD symptoms in children with ASD however, it's not as efficient as it is for generally developing children.
Treatments for autism and ADHD can be dangerous when not used correctly. It's important to work with your doctor to find the appropriate dosage and medication for your child or teenager. Always follow the directions on the label of the medication. Do not abruptly stop or begin taking your medication. This could be dangerous. It is important to seek immediate help when you suspect that you or someone else has taken too many medications. Keep track of your child's weight and height on a regular basis as well as their menstrual cycle to make sure the medication isn't causing undesirable side effects.
Medication Options
Many children with autism have ADHD and it's normal for both conditions to coexist. Treatment is often a part of the treatment program for both. The medications that are most commonly used to treat ADHD -- methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse), Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex) -- can be effective in treating the impulsivity and hyperactivity that are associated with autism.
A few children with autism exhibit severe aggression or irritability. These symptoms can be difficult for parents to manage using only methods for managing behavior. Certain medications such as Abilify and Risperdal can help to reduce aggression and self-injury through the neurotransmitter dopamine. These medications aren't endorsed by the FDA for use in children with autism, but they are often prescribed "off-label" to treat specific symptoms.
It is essential that parents consult their pediatricians to determine if medication is appropriate for their child. Numerous studies have shown that children who take ADHD medication for coexisting Autism can have a better quality of life at home and at school, and make significant progress in their academic and behavioral abilities.
Psychiatrists have been trained to help children with the symptoms of ADHD and autism. They can recommend behaviorally oriented parenting training that involves groups and manual programs that teach parents how to manage disruptive behavior. They can also provide psychosocial therapy that focuses on improving communication and relationships among family members.
Some families, however, prefer using medication to manage their child's behavior. Some parents have found that the calming effects of antipsychotics can help reduce the child's aggression, anger as well as self-injury. They might be willing to consider this option when other therapies don't work.
In the same way the majority of children who suffer from autism also suffer from mental health issues that hinders their ability to learn and function, such as anxiety or depression. These disorders are frequently co-occurring and can hinder the effectiveness of therapy. Combining cognitive behavioral therapy with medication could be beneficial for children. This method is especially beneficial for kids who have a more severe autism disorder or who do not respond to other treatments.