ADHD Medications Used for Autism

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a medical diagnosis for children that have attention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness issues. Many times children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) also suffer from ADHD. For this reason, ADHD medication is sometimes prescribed to children with autism. It is important to note that this article is not making any recommendations; rather it is here to educate you on the medications that are typically prescribed. There are three medications that are typically recommended. Let's take a look.

Ritalin

• Ritalin is a stimulant that helps to control impulsiveness and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Ritalin has been tested by the Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology (RUPP) and has been found to improve hyperactivity in some children with mild forms of autism. The main medication found in Ritalin is methylphenidate. Ritalin can be habit-forming. It is available in a form that can be broken open and sprinkled over food if a child has a hard time swallowing it.

Adderall

• The main drugs in Adderall are dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, which help with hyperactivity and impulsiveness. This drug has also shown some results in children with mild forms of autism and ADHD. A warning comes with this drug, as it can cause stunted growth in children, so it is important to monitor your child's height and weight while they are on Adderall. Adderall can also be broken open and sprinkled over food for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.

Dexedrine

• Another medication prescribed to treat ADHD in children with autism is Dexedrine. This drug contains dextroamphetamine, and can be habit-forming, so stick to the exact dosing instructions prescribed by your doctor. This drug is not recommended for children under the age of three.

Studies

• According to the Autism Society, not many studies have been done on ADHD medications and their effects on autism. What is known has mostly been discovered by doctors treating ADHD in children with autism too. The three drugs Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine have shown some results in helping with focus issues, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. There is much that needs to be done to learn more about prescribing ADHD medications to children with autism, especially because some dosages cause other behavioral issues.

Additional Information

• If your doctor is prescribing you an ADHD medication for your child with autism, it is imperative that you ask questions and gather as much information as you can. Ask your doctor about dosing instructions, for instance, and the dangers of your child receiving too much, or too little. Is the medication addictive? What other medications can it be taken with? What foods? Has it shown results in other children? How will your child be monitored while on the medication?