Yet another possible treatment for children with autism is medication. On the one hand, some parents feel they have seen vast improvements in their children's behavior since they have been on medication; on the other, some parents refuse medication, feeling that it would just be "doping up" their children.
This articleaddresses both sides: it is a mother talking about her personal experience with her child that has autism spectrum disorder. She talks about how she was very hesitant to use medication, especially because other parents would say it was just "doping" your child up so you don't have to deal with them. Eventually she medicates her son and sees drastic results that are good. She concludes by saying " individuals who are not familiar with these situations please reserve your judgement until you know more about each situation." (Britany Barnes)
This video details that the most common drugs used to treat autism, the SSRI series, which mostly consist of anti-depressants. In this video they state that these drugs have no proven effect on the effects of autism. A worried mother details her worries and concerns of possible side effects. It also features a doctor from Seattle Childrens Hospital. He outlines his disappointment in not seeing ANY results within his examination of the drugs effects. (Shelly Peterson)
This article is a mother's experience of refusing to medicate her autistic son. She believes intensive therapy will be the thing that helps her son learn to communicate, and she is a believer in the gluten-free casein-free diet. Her stand is that medication only treats symptoms of autism and she would rather give her son the resources to cope with his disability instead of medicating him. (Lauren Stevenson)
Our group feels that, for the most part, medication is ineffective--it only masks the problem. Parents should medicate their child only if necessary, and that medication should be used only temporarily and used along with teaching techniques (e.g. self-modeling).
In your opinion, is medication an effective treatment for children with autism? Under what circumstances should it be given?
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I feel that parents know their children better than anyone and it should be their decision in deciding whether to place their child on medication, natural procedures, or other means to help their child. However, I do think that if a parent is going to use any of these procedures on their child it is their responsibility to find out the side effects that can come from any of these procedures.
ReplyDeleteI think once again I think a topic like this is a personal decision. I feel that medicine could be an effective treatment, but it all depends on the child and their circumstances. If you do give medicine, I wouldn’t keep giving my child a certain drug that didn’t work or made my child work. Some types of medication work on certain people that don’t work on others. So be cautious when giving medication to a child. I personally feel that medication would be my last option, but it still is an option in my mind. If I tried a certain medication for my child and it seemed to be working overall improving, then I would definitely keep my child on medication. If it did nothing but harm my child, and make them become a totally different person, then I would definitely take them off the medication immediately. I agree with the people that posted the blog that parents should medicate their child only if it is necessary. I would never put my child on medication of they didn’t need to be and if they were functioning just fine without it. This is a touchy subject and I think parents need to consult with their doctors and talk to people they know that have children on medication. I don’t think medication is the answer to everything. I think personally it is the last resort, if nothing else works.
ReplyDeleteIn contrast to the chelation therapy, most medications, like Risperdal, have pretty mild side effects like weight gain or tiredness. These are not bad enough risks to convince me not to try the medications if I had a child with autism. Since Autism is a biologically-based problem I don't think there is anything wrong with treating it with biologically-based interventions. However, I would try teaching methods first.
ReplyDeleteIf I decided to try medications, I would try them for a short time and judge the results (possibly even taking data) to decide whether to continue or not.
Since each child is different and the parents know them best, the choice should be made by parents and others shouldn't criticize a parent's decision.
I agree, I think that choosing to use medication is the parent's prerogative and that they should consult with their doctor. I was turned off by the teachers who suggested to Wilson that she put her child on medication. At the same time, I disagree with the group in that I do not think there is anything inherently wrong with medication - if we find something that works and is not very intrusive, then I see no problem in using that medication.
ReplyDeleteAs of right now, the research is not showing that the present medication is ineffective in helping autistic children overcome some of their struggles. Therefore, I would not recommend that course of action to anyone. I hope that someday we will find a treatment that will minimize the side effects of autism. Like Arthur's Mom said, "He's going to grow up... So the more able he is, I think the happier he's going to be in this world."
I am not opposed to medicating students, if they need it. I think that if there is a medication that helps you to function better, then take it. I understand the fear of doping, becoming groggy, a zombie, etc. You just have to find the dose that works best. And in kids, as they grow their bodies change and their medication needs will change.
ReplyDeleteI don't think that medication is the only answer, or even the first answer. I think teaching and therapy are the first choice. But sometimes, medication can help you focus, be more alert, and calm so that you are better able to learn.
As with any other treatment, there are numerous benefits and numerous drawbacks to using medication as a treatment for symptoms of autism. I have seen many instances where medication was incredibly effective and helpful for a child with autism. Their medication helped them focus, reduced their tantrums, and helped them better be able to learn. I have also seen instances where medication had no effect on the child, or had a negative effect, such as increasing problem behaviors, or even resulted in very negative side effects. I think that the parents have the ultimate decision to try medication with their child or not, and it is certainly an issue that has a lot of different sides to consider. However, I would definintely not rule out medication off hand because I have seen it be very helpful to a lot of children with autism. As with all medications, it is a process that needs to be carefully monitored, and many changes in dosage and even they type of drug may have to be made before the correct medication is found, but for some children with autism, medication really does work. As it said in the second article, there is no medication that will eliminiate symptoms of autism or cure autism, but I believe that in some cases, medication can really help a child with autism and should most definitley be considered.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very personal decision. It depends on the child. I don't think a blanket decision on using medication should be made. In all of our classes our professors have been emphasizing how teaching children with disabilities is not a cookie-cutter kind of problem solving. Every child reacts differently to different techniques...the same with medication. We make individual educational plans for each child, so why wouldn't medication work the same way. It is ultimately the parent's, doctor's, and possibly the child's decision. Medication can work for some children and won't work for others. So once again, it depends on the child.
ReplyDeleteI pretty much agree with what's already been said. I think that medication should not be advocated or shot down- it is totally dependent on the needs of the child and the parents' judgment. I definitely think that teachers should stay out of it. We are not medically licensed, and we have no right to suggest to parents that their child should be on meds. As was stated earlier, parents know their child better than anyone, and should have the responsiblity and privilege of making those critical decisions. I do think medications can do a lot of good- I have had a couple of students that I have seen the before and after and it's amazing. They have the same personality, it's not changing who they are; but they are happier and calmer and can cope with things easier. I think that medication should not be diagnosed lightly, but I do think that it can be very beneficial when diagnosed correctly and wisely and when in the best interest of the child. I also think that it is important to use teaching and behavior plans along with the medication.
ReplyDeleteI believe that depending on the severity of the case, and the medication being used, some medications can be beneficial when treating autism. I think that a medication with little side- effects could really help someone with autism. I agree that this should be paired with teaching techniques as well. I know quite a few people who have children with autism, and I know some people who have other disabilities that use medication. Although there are some medications that produce too many side-effects to be used, there are some that have changed these people's lives, and have made them happier. I do believe, however, that this is an individual decision, and if medication is taken, it should be one that will be beneficial to the person, because it produces little side- effects.
ReplyDeleteI also think that giving my child medication is a personal decision. I wouldn’t be one of those people who think that no matter what, medicine will fix things. I would be careful with the decisions I make and do plenty of research on the matter first. If I felt like my child was bad enough and indeed did need medication, I would not be opposed to trying it for a while and pay close attention to any changes. If things did get worse or just not get better I would discontinue the medication. I would not want my child on medicine if it was not really helping him/her. As we have seen people have argued both sides of this situation and say that their side is the correct one. I personally do not think there is one standard correct answer for everyone. I think that it depends on the situation and the child so one decision should not be made for every child.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what most others have said; the decision to medicate your child is very personal, and as a parent, you have the right to make that decision. I am not completely opposed to medicating your child. However, for me this would be an absolute last resort. In my family, we almost never take medicine. I did not take any kind of medication, except for the rare headache, until I was a junior in high school and had to take medication after my knee surgery. This has shaped my ideas on the necessity of medication. I think that many times medicine is used when it is not even needed. I would try other techniques, such as having my child work with a therapist, before putting my child on medication. However, if I had tried everything and my child still was not making any progress, I probably would try medication. But if my child started having negative side effects from the medicine, I would take them off of it immediately. Basically, in general I am opposed to using medication, but I would consider it as a last resort.
ReplyDeleteEvery child is different and every situation has its exceptions and so it is hard to say one answer is the right answer. I think that as a parent you must do what you think is in the best interest for your child. I do not know if I would medicate my child unless it was absolutely necessary. I do not think that medication can cure autism, but I do think that it may help in some environments such as in the classroom at school. I would not listen to others "miracle stories" they have experienced; I would definitely talk with many doctors and get many professional opinions to give me information about what I want to do with my child. But ultimately I do not think that medication is an effective treatment for children with autism.
ReplyDeleteThis groups question is in regards to if we think medication is an effective treatment for autism and under what circumstances it should be used. I believe medication can be effective yet I also feel that there just is not enough evidence that these medications are directly linked to helping those with autism. There are so many medications available and I think it is wise to investigate fully any medication used by me or my child before using them, no matter the reasoning behind it. I am not opposed to taking medications but I have also never been a fan of taking medicine. If I can push through pain or sickness without medicine, I would. Ultimately, I agree with what has been said, medicine may help but I would use it as a last resort. If I tried everything I possibly could and still found no help or improvement, I would probably try medication.
ReplyDeleteI'm somewhat torn in this dilemma. I grew up with several family members who suffered from ADD and/or depression. It took me a while to understand that these are not problems that can be fixed with a mere change in one's outlook on life or rigid self-discipline. While taking medication does not cure them of these problems, it does enable them to have more control over their own minds.
ReplyDeletePerhaps medication for autism is similar in this way. While I don't think that the medication would fix any of the problems, it may be beneficial in that it helps individuals to overcome obstacles that keep them from functioning happily. I also think that individuals (even children who are old enough to know the difference) should have some say in whether or not they are on medication. Parents should pay close attention to how their children feel with and without medication--ask them when they feel better. It is not worth it for someone to feel horrible all the time in order to have better focus or to be able talk to more people.
If medication is used, however, they should be compounded with therapies that will help individuals learn to maximize their strengths in order to diminish their weaknesses.
I appreciate you putting both sides here. I really think it matters on the child and the instincts of the parent. Of course if behavioral therapy works, then I support that first. After that, I think if the parents want to, then it would be ok to try medication. It's tricky to find the right medication and then the right dosage for the child. There have been many people who have seen great things from having medication. I don't agree that everyone should automatically try medication and that all children should be given it the same way. Again, this comes down to the parent's responsibility and what they feel is best for the child that they know better than anyone.
ReplyDeleteI agree with other who have said that this is more of a parent's decision as they know their child best. It should be a thought out process because I am a firm believer that you should not take medications if you do not need them.
ReplyDeleteHowever, there are some cases in which I think it helps. I have known some children with Autism that were much easier to teach when on other medications. I think this should only be used when other options have been proven ineffective, and only in cases where it is necessary for the child's progress toward their goals. The parents can weigh the options and decide fort themselves if they think this would help their child. Teachers or other people should not suggest a child go on medication as they may not know the entire situation or child well. Medication works differently for everyone so it should not be an expected thing when it comes to anyone.
I had a visit with my Brother in law who is a child psychiatrist, and even though I do not have personal experience, I now have a bit of an opinion on the subject of medicating children. I agree with the first article about the Mom who refused to medicate until things got so “out of hand” that she finally tried it. Her view was not to judge someone or even a procedure until you have tried it”. That is basically what my brother in law; Dr. Palmer suggest. He works with many different illnesses, and different levels of illnesses. Some may need medication, and some may be able to survive with only therapy and nutrition interventions.
ReplyDeleteWith so many people turning to medications for a “quick fix” I too believe we are an overmedicated society. If I were a Doctor, (which I am not) I would counsel a parent to try several other interventions before trying medication. However, I would never rule out medication as a possibility to help the child cope and have a better life.
Would Meds only treat the symptoms? Probably, but if the symptoms are so disruptive, and life challenging, I would medicate the symptoms so my child and family could have a better quality of life. If all the meds did was “dumb him/her up” then the quality of life hasn’t been enhanced. Nevertheless, if the medication helps with tantrums in public or even home, and help with communication etc. There is no reason why someone should be judged negatively for their choice.
This is a personal decision, and parent should be supported in what they choose. However, I would hope that eventually meds could be discovered to have more of an effect on the child.
What ever works, is the way to go, beginning with a focus on natural interventions. Quality of life is worth evaluating and a decision is up to the best judge who is usually the parent, and possibly the child.
I agree that this is a parent’s decision, and that no one should be judged because of the decision they make. I have seen medication help children function in normal life, and it did not change their entire personality. I think both medication and teaching methods have their place in helping individuals with autism or other disorders progress. Anyone who has to make this decision for their child should research what options there are and pick the best one for both their child and their financial circumstances.
ReplyDeleteI agree that this is ultimately a parent's decision as in all things. They know their children the best, they know the behaviors exhibited the best, and they will be the ones to see the effects of medication on their children. I dont know much about the medication that is used specifically for autism. I know for some students with ADHD that ritalin has helped their bodies to calm down long enough to take in and receive an education. As in all medications, effects will be different for every child. If a child is exhibiting this 'zoombie' like behaviors and not progressing in behaviors or academically, then we would need to reevaluate. All of us know in this profession that everything is so individualized and what may work for our children one day may not work the next. If their is medication out their helping, great keep our child on it, if not the answer is simple- stop. I also think lots of decisions like this also depend on finances as well. But I think what most need to remember is that this medication will not solve all problems or be a miracle worker. In the end behavior training, one on one help and constant praise is still needed. No medication will be able to 'fix' all on its own. It will help but we need to be continually evaluating our efforts as well. But all in all its an individualized case that must be made as a family.
ReplyDeleteI honestly believe that there is no clear cut answer whether or not medication is effective treatment for children with autism. If there were distinct answers to when it should and should not be given, a lot of problems would be solved. However, there is no right or wrong answer. I have worked with various children with autism ranging all over the spectrum and each child is an individual with their disability being unique. Treatment, including medication, depends on the child. It is a personal decision that I believe only the parents know best. I believe that behavioral problems can be worked through and corrected without the use of medication by intervention therapies. However, I do believe that there are some instances where behavior is too uncontrollable and medication is a very realistic treatment. Every child is unique and there is no clear cut answer to what treatment or therapy is going to be most beneficial for that particular child. I do believe that if parents decide to use medication that they know and research all the possible side effects and risks. I think medication is a last result, but the parents and doctors know best.
ReplyDeleteIn your opinion, is medication an effective treatment for children with autism? Under what circumstances should it be given?
ReplyDeleteDepending on the severity and how complex the studies are for the medication I might consider it as a parent. However, medication never generalizes a treatment outside of medication. The point of therapy and everything else like that is to not have to need the other alternative and eventually for the symptoms to get better. The symptoms of autism...probably will never go away so it might be better for the caregivers just to adapt.
I have heard of oxytocin treatments reducing the repetitive movements and also with altruism although there are not extensive studies. I would say this is almost healthier though because oxytocin is a natural bonding hormone in everyone's body.
I also believe that it really is up to the parents to decide if and when they want to try medical and other implementations for their child with autism. I think that medicine is potentially very dangerous and has numerous and a large variety of side effects for different individuals. I also think that parents put too much false hope in medication and therapy and that they really haven’t accepted the fact that their child has autism. It think that the most important and best way to help the child is to accept this and prepare for helping their child. Medicine hasn’t proved very effective and a key factor in helping children with autism over the years and yet there is still a great reliability in medicine. As the group that posted stated: medicine should be used only temporarily and along with teaching techniques.
ReplyDeleteI will admit that I am a proponent of using medication. I believe that we should use modern medical technology to its fullest. However, with that being said, I definitely believe that the decision to medicate or not medicate a child should be made only after the parent has been fully informed about the benefits and disadvantages of the medication. I think that the decision is compounded when considering medicating children with disabilities. I would definitely look into medications for my child if they were proven to have an effect on their performance. As in the cases cited in the blog, I would be more hesitant to give my children medications that were not proven to be effective. I think that the decision to medicate or not medicate should be left up to the parent after they fully investigated the ramifications of the medication.
ReplyDeleteOkay so I definately have a strong opinion on medication! I think that sometimes people over analysis the importance or the effect it can have on a child good or bad. My brother who has cerebra palsy everytime he continued to go to the doctors they just upped his dosage or added gave him something else. After a long period of time, my mom just found it so frustrating because it had so many side effect on my brother to the point with it made his life that much harder. After some time my mom found new way, using vitamins, which is all he takes and one other pill.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that there def a time and place for taking meds, how much the dosage is and how many pill they are on is a completely different story. I think it's okay to try something once to see if it help. I know some parents are hesitant but if it doesn't help then just get him off of it. It's not fair to not let him take medicine if it's gonna help. That's why we have doctors and medicine to help us. So i do believe that it's a good thing for autistic individuals to be on medicine if it helps and if not find something else like vitamins. Obviously the parents should find out all the information on the medicine before they agree but disabling their child from being able to have medicine is unfair and the parents should re-evaluate what they are doing.
i can see both sides of this argument. i think that it is a great idea to try and use non medicated therapies for children with autism and i understand that they do like the idea of medication only covering up symptoms of autism. on the other hand i work with two boys in the same family both with severe autism and they do have certain therapies and procedures that they qualify for but they also have medicine that they take regularly and i have seen them off that medication and there mother would go crazy if they acted how they do when off their medication.
ReplyDelete