Autism is a developmental problem that affects a child's social skills, communication and brain development. Typically, autism appears by the time the child is three years old. Specific symptoms of autism include problems with social interaction, communication and playing. Other symptoms include repetitive body movements, tantrums, aggression, and light, sound, smell or taste sensitivity. Fortunately, medications can be used to control autistic symptoms.
Risperidone
MedlinePlus says that risperidone can be used to manage the aggression and irritability typically displayed in autistic children between the ages of five and 16 years old.
Risperidone belongs to a class of medicines called antipsychotics. It changes the levels of certain chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters). Usually, this medication is used to treat such mental illnesses as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Drugs.com says that risperidone's common side effects include a headache, dizziness, restlessness, drowsiness, problems with urination, dry mouth, nausea and constipation. Risperidone also causes impotence, a reduced sex drive (libido) and tremors. Contact a doctor if risperidone's common side effects persist for more than five to seven days.
Risperidone's serious side effects include muscle stiffness, an irregular heartbeat, white patches or sores on the lips or mouth, fainting, lightheadedness, trouble swallowing, a fever and sweating. Risperidone can also lead to body aches, flu-like symptoms and restless movements of the jaw, neck, eyes or tongue. Call a physician if risperidone leads to these effects.
Risperidone is taken as a liquid or disintegrating tablet as prescribed.
Divalproex Sodium
Divalproex sodium is another medication that is used to control autism symptoms. This medication is an anticonvulsant drug that reduces the brain's electrical activity.
Drugs.com says that divalproex sodium's common effects include hair loss (alopecia), anxiety, depression, tremors, visual loss, constipation, diarrhea, weakness and drowsiness. Divalproex sodium also causes tremors, enlarged breasts and stomach problems. Phone a doctor when this drug's effects last for more than six or seven days.
Divalproex sodium's serious effects include easy bruising or bleeding, a fever, sore throat, lack of coordination, double vision (diplopia), rapid shifting eye movements (nystagmus), decreased urination, bloody urine, vomiting and fainting. Other side effects include a blistering red skin rash, hallucinations and decreased urination. Notify a doctor if divalproex sodium causes any of these effects.
Divalproex sodium is taken as a capsule. Use it as directed.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate can be used to address the symptoms of autism. Methylphenidate is a stimulant medication that alters the neurotransmitters (chemicals) within the brain. Normally, this medication is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
MedlinePlus says that methylphenidate's common effects include dizziness, nausea, a headache, dry mouth, muscle tightness, restlessness, vomiting, nervousness and trouble sleeping. Methylphenidate also leads to heartburn, a decreased sex drive (libido), painful periods, a headache and stomach pain. Tell a physician if methylphenidate's effects remain for more than five to seven days.
Methyphenidate's serious effects include a fever, changes in mood, trouble breathing or swallowing, seizures, agitation, shortness of breath and fatigue. Chest pain, a fast or pounding heartbeat, hallucinations, blistering skin and a rash are methylphenidate's other serious effects. Also, methylphenidate can be addicting. Call a physician immediately if methylphenidate causes these symptoms.
This drug is available as a chewable, immediate-acting or immediate-release tablet, extended-release capsule and liquid. Take methylphenidate as prescribed.
