The only medications approved by the FDA for children with autism are Abilify and Risperdal. Both are antipsychotic medications that can help with irritability and aggression. Medication can also be helpful for kids who also have another diagnosis.
In a patient with autism and agitation, consider drug-induced causes like akathisia. Start by reducing sensory stimulation and then establish a set routine and structure to the day. Consider short-term benzodiazepines or beta-blockers, however, keep in mind the effect beta-blockers on sleep.
Some autistic people can experience difficulties making themselves understood, understanding what's being said to them, and understanding facial expressions and body language. This can cause considerable frustration and anxiety which may result in anger or distressed behaviour.
Mood stabilizing autism medication
Lithium, Lamictal, Depakene, Depakote, Tegretol, Topamax, Trileptal, and Keppra are options to explore with your child's pediatrician.
Background. Irritability in people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is common and impairing, yet its mechanisms remain understudied.
Provide a “feelings vocabulary”: Teach your son to talk about how he feels. Give him a language to express his emotions. If he is too upset to talk or doesn't have the vocabulary to express his emotions, ask about the feelings relevant to the specific situation (e.g., "Do you feel angry… let down…
Many autistic people will show signs of distress before having a meltdown, which is sometimes referred to as the “rumble stage”. They may start to exhibit signs of anxiety such as pacing, seek reassurance through repetitive questioning or physical signs such as rocking or becoming very still.
Both risperidone (Risperdal) and aripiprazole (Abilify) are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating autism-related irritability, which includes aggression, tantrums, and self-injury.
Risperdal is an antipsychotic medication given to kids who have extreme behavior problems like being very aggressive or angry. It's sometimes used for kids with autism, ADHD or ODD (oppositional defiant disorder) who are acting out in dangerous ways.
Only two medications, risperidone and aripiprazole, are FDA approved for ASD, and these approvals are limited to one specific set of symptoms—irritability/aggression. We must choose from a range of off-label meds to treat the wide variety of issues. When I evaluate a patient with autism, here's my approach.
Find sensory tools that can comfort a child at times of stress. These may include squeezy toys, weighted blankets, a calming video or book, a swing set, or even a pet. If a meltdown occurs, allow your child the time and space to calm themselves down and learn to self-regulate.
Try Breathing Techniques
Breathing techniques are helpful for anyone experiencing a meltdown, and people with autism are no exception. It's helpful to teach your loved one breathing techniques before a meltdown happens. Do it when they're calm and happy. This way, they'll be ready when they need to self-soothe.
Divert the child's attention with objects and toys he/she likes (an autism meltdown kit) Teach your child to communicate when he/she is upset. Offer alternatives to something that is not possible (and the child wants) to make him/her feel like he/she has some control of the situation.
SSRIs are commonly prescribed to treat conditions like depression and anxiety, but they've also been used to treat symptoms of anger or irritability. SSRIs that have been shown to help with anger include citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), among others.
In the general population, young children often become less aggressive as they get older and learn better ways to express themselves. But for some with autism, aggression persists through the teen years into adulthood.
Aggression in autism can involve severe tantrums, anger, hostility, sudden-onset violent outbursts including self-harm and rage 'episodes'. Up to 20% of individuals with autism exhibit such violent behaviours.
People with high functioning autism often are aware of their challenges and social deficiencies, sometimes causing repetitive thoughts about this, leading to anger and possible aggression. Knowing how to deal with the anger and help your child find the tools to manage this will bring a sense of harmony and relief.
In conclusion, there are many factors that can make autism worse. Sensory overload, changes in routine, social isolation, co-occurring conditions, and lack of support can all exacerbate the symptoms of autism.
Create A Structured Environment
Children with autism feel much more comfortable and connected when they have a set routine with clear structures, and minimal alterations from their predicted schedule.
Yelling at children with autism can cause depression and negatively impact the emotional wellbeing of the child.
Autism and Anger Management
Adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including Asperger's and autism, are prone to anger outbursts. An 'on-off' quality during which individuals may be calm one second and then have an autism outburst in the next is common.