Medication and the Autism Spectrum

Recent developments in medication (by recent I mean the last few decades) have resulted in many individuals with Asperger Syndrome and other related disorders gaining some control over symptoms such as meltdowns, thus allowing for increased independence and quality of life. Unfortunately, medications come with some side effects. The media does an especially good job of pointing these out.

I believein the lowest effective dose possible. Often exercise, relaxation, and dietary supplements like omega 3s can reduce the dosage of medication needed. For instance, exercise encourages the brain to naturally release chemicals such as serotonin.

Also, some side effects can be managed. For instance the popular drug risperdol may lead to increased appetite, but that can be controlled by eating low calorie foods when an individual has the urge to eat more than usual.

It is always a balance between having the lowest risks possible and the best possible quality of life. For instance an individual with Asperger Syndrome that is “medication free” but having public meltdowns is not acceptable, nor is an individual who is on such a high dose of medications that the side effects have serious impact on their quality of life. Also, in some cases, individuals may experience a side effect with a particular medication that is unbearable (e.g. development of severe tics with Dexedrine, but that does not mean that all medications are unsuitable for them). Some individuals with AS may do well without medication using other management techniques. It is a very individual issue in which the pros and cons should be discussed with a medical professional, preferably a psychiatrist.