Wednesday, February 15, 2012

What medication works best?

Written by

kjeanpierre

kjeanpierre

Fri, December 21, 2007

My son has autism and ADHD.  He is nonverba, so picking a good medication has been challenging.  We simply do not know what he is feeling or experiencing.  None of the stimulants have worked for him.  Other medications like clonidine only make him drowsy and do not help with the inattention and hyperactivity.  It is very challenging!  Has anyone else had this experience?  What wisdom can you provide?  I want to help him succeed.  He is only 9 years old.  What medication works best when autism is involved?
12/22/07 9:50pm

Hi Kjeanpierre,

 

Thanks for posting your question.

 

I must say that though I do not know a whole lot about kids on the autistic spectrum, I do know that many parents who have children with autism have reported that Risperdal has been very helpful. I also believe that this is the only medication, so far, that has been approved for the treatment of problems associated with autism. Run it by your son's doctor and let us know what he/she says.

 

Hope this helps!

 

Terry

12/23/07 2:59am
Thanks for a prompt response.  We have tried risperdal in the past.  It was discontinued due to concerns of weight gain and family history of diabetes.  It worked well in the beginning, but I suppose he became tolerant.  That is when we switched to adding stimulants and eventually moved to other atypical anti-psychotics like Zyprexa.  We've even wondered if he needs an anti-depressant.  Perhaps the tantrums and aggression are part of depression.  We are in ongoing discussions with his treatment team.  He is currently at a residential treatment facility in Chicago, IL.  I will let you know what happens with us.  Again, thanks so much for your suggestion.
12/26/07 12:48pm

Hi,

It sounds like he's in good hands. As you know, children on the spectrum seem to have a different response to medications (though the weight gain is common with Risperdal), and it may take a while to find the right combination to target his symptoms.

 

Hang in there and please let us know how he fares.

 

Terry

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