Autism is Neurodevelopmental condition. Someone may have social and communication differences, sensory and/or confined problems, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests.
Over the past few decades, there has been increased awareness and extended definition of autism. Now nearby one in 40 People They are considered autistic.
Autistic people often have strengths such as focus, honesty and dedication. But due to the combination of genetic and autism factors, they also have higher indicators of other health conditions.
Common Mental health conditions It includes anxiety, depression, attention and hyperactivity or adhd, obsessive and compulsive disorder, eating disorders and intellectual developmental disorder.
Common physical health conditions include epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.
The basic features of autism cannot and do not need to be changed. But a number of interviewees and medicines may Help manage these other health conditions.
Commonly prescribed drugs
Increased awareness of autism and the availability of novel drugs increased prescribing rates For autistic people and people with other chronic conditions in the last few decades. This is the trend we saw In the international arena.
The most common drugs for mental health conditions among autistic people If:
-
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (prozac), in the event of anxiety and depression
-
Low dose antipsychotics, such as risperidone and arypiprazole, to reduce irritability and aggression associated with stress
-
stimulants such as methylphenide (ritalina) for ADHD
-
Melatonin and other sleep drugs.
The most common drugs for physical health conditions among autistic people If:
-
Developers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, for pain and fever, especially in younger children. They are also the most frequently prescribed drugs for non -communist children
-
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, in terms of suspicious or confirmed infections (autistic children usually have More infection)
-
Asthma and allergies, including salbutamol inhalers, loraratadin and oral steroids (autism have autism Similar rates allergies to non -voluorating people)
-
Laksatywy, such as lactulose, to constipation. Autistic people are increased risk constipation due to confined food preferences, stiff toilet habits and difficulties in recognizing when they apply the toilet.
Candyretriever/Shutterstock
Many drugs or not enough
Refreshing many drugs is also known as polypharma. This became more a problem for autistic people Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia.
One examination Autistic children and adolescent people from Aotearoa were found in Recent Zealand, they received medium (medium) four drugs in one year (compared to 2.9 drugs for non -voluted people). About 57% were prescribed three or more drugs at the same time.
Drugs can also work for people with and without autism. However, autistic people have more often side effects. This may be due to increased sensory sensitivity and the way drugs affect the nervous system.
Polypharma increases the risk medication interaction. It will probably also contribute to a higher chance of autistic people for early dying. AND 2024 study He confirms that this happens at the pace of non -voluored people.
Possible causes of polypharma include:
-
lack consent between doctors and clear guidelines for prescribing medicines
-
insufficient access for the option not to conclude measures to manage disease
-
greater probability treatment during crises. For example, behavior that escalates to such an extent that personal or property damage and family burn may require medicines to allow a child to remain at home.
Sometimes, however, autistic people may not receive the right drugs. This may be due to the fact that doctors do not have clear guidelines for prescribing or differ in how they prescribe. It can also be because someone or their family is worried about side effects.

Bonnet/Shutterstock
The right dose for the right time
We should strive to apply the right medicine for the right time for the growing number of people diagnosed with autism.
It is necessary that more pronounced guidelines for prescribing are prescribing, the goal of the lowest possible dose of drugs, actively dealing with polyfarmacies and regularly monitoring autistic people for the purpose as soon as possible.
Earlier identification and support for autistic children and their families would reduce the chances of stress -related crises and health conditions.
We need health services that can better meet the needs of autistic people. Malleable, matched care should be provided in an environment that suits someone’s sensory needs. For example, the environment should not be too radiant, raucous or excessively stimulating. It would be ideal designed with autistic people.
We also need a proper health care system resource to provide autistic persons with an appropriate, appropriate, sheltered and fair care.