Medication

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Hello,

My son Felix has been diagnosed with autism last april. He's currently is dayhospital until the end of the month,
and they have suggested to start medication for him, to control his fear and impulsiveness. (no specific medicine
mentioned yet - we're seeing the doctor in 2 weeks)
Me and my wife to are very reluctant, especially since he's only 4 and his brain is still in full development.
I don't want to give him any medication to make him more socially acceptable or easyer for us to deal
with. He's a wonderful boy and his autism is such an essential part of his personality that i wouldn't dream
of changing anything about him .. If he'd start any medication, it would have to be for his own benefit (not ours) and
ideally he'd have some say in it. I don't want to not give him the medicine he needs either though,
just because of my own hangups.
How do you feel about it? Did you get any medication from your parents when you were small?
Was it the right decision for you? What impact did it have on you?
Any input is appreciated.

thanks,

Guy

Not knowing all the details of your situation...but as a general rule medication should only be a last resort.

I would suggest looking into therapy options and other coping mechanisims first. I would also suggest seeking out a second or third opinion from a Dr. that TRULY understands autism... not saying your doc doesn't but the more professional opinions would help make a more educated decision. I have two boys on the spectrum (4 and 7) they both have their own unique challenges but from the professionals I have come across in providing their care NOT ONE has suggested medication.

Hope you find the guidence you are seeking and hope my input has been value-added to that process. Kind regards. Shark.

I was given Ritalin as a child and it turned me into a zombie. It was believed I was hyperactive and needed medication, which was later found out to be untrue. I was very energetic and outgoing, but also very focused.

I don't believe in medication for someone only four years old. It can have very serious, even toxic, results for someone that young.

I was given Ritalin as a 13-year-old. It made me even more hyper. I was taken off it after one pill (I thought it was after two weeks until my mother refreshed my memory).

I think you should, if you can, get opinions from a couple of specialists and see what your options are, but don't rule out mediation altogether.

FWIW, I took Ritalin during the school year from about your son's age until about 16 or so (?). I never felt like it made a difference, but my mom has said that she noticed a real difference in, I guess, my executive function w/ and w/out.

"Medication is the psychiatrist's way of saying 'I give up.'"

Robin

I am currently on medication for meltdowns/anxiety. I wouldn't say its a last resort, but therapy is defiantly more important.

Medication that lessens anxiety or frustration/irritability WILL be beneficial to him if they work properly.

You can always try a small dose of an anxiety medication, wait a few weeks and see how he does.

You can always take him off the medication if it isn't helping.