| At a glance: Stimulants |
Type of therapy
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Medical
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The claim
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May help people with autism to manage inattention and hyperactivity
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Suitable for
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People of all ages with inattention and hyperactivity, including children with autism
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Research rating
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Warnings
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This therapy requires careful monitoring of effectiveness and side effects. In some people, it can increase autistic symptoms and decrease appetite resulting in poor weight gain. |
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Time
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Little time is needed to take the medication, but treatment might be ongoing. |
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Cost
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The cost will vary depending on the strength of the drug used and how often it is taken. |
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About this intervention
What is it?
Stimulants are drugs that temporarily increase mental or physical function, or both. Some stimulants commonly prescribed for autism are dexamphetamine (for example, Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (for example, Ritalin, Attenta and Concerta).
Who is it for?
Stimulants can be prescribed to people of all ages showing difficulties with paying attention, impulsivity or hyperactivity. This can include children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
What is it used for?
Stimulants are used to help improve difficulties with paying attention, and behaviours such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. Stimulant medications increase levels of a brain chemical called dopamine. Increased dopamine levels can help control these behaviours.
The effects of stimulants can include enhanced alertness, wakefulness and energy.
Where does it come from?
Stimulant medications have been around for over 50 years. They’ve been used to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention in children with ADHD since the 1980s. Recently, stimulants have also been prescribed to reduce similar symptoms in children with autism.
What is the idea behind it?
In addition to their communication and social difficulties, children with ASD often have difficulty paying attention. They might also show other behaviours such as hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The idea is to use stimulants to address these issues. This then makes it easier to treat the communication and social characteristics of autism using other approaches.
What does it involve?
This therapy involves taking oral medication on a daily basis. The specific medication and dosage will depend on each child’s symptoms.
A specialist medical practitioner, such as a psychiatrist or paediatrician, should monitor the child receiving the medication. Regular appointments will be needed.
Cost considerations
The cost of this therapy is ongoing, and varies depending on:
- the type of medication used (that is, the specific brand of drug)
- whether the drug is covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- the drug dose or strength
- whether the consumer holds a concession card, such as a Health Care Card.
Does it work?
This therapy has not yet been rated.
Stimulants can have significant side effects, particularly if used over a long period of time. These side effects include
tiredness or social withdrawal, an increase in repetitive movements (such as arm waving or body rocking), tics,
irritability, depressed moods and increased hyperactivity.
The most frequently reported side effect is decreased appetite.
Who practises this method?
In Australia, stimulant medications can be prescribed only by paediatricians, child psychiatrists or neurologists. In certain situations, GPs can sometimes prescribe stimulants.
Any one of these professionals can offer you more information on the potential benefits and risks of stimulant medication.
Parent education, training, support and involvement
You will need to be involved to ensure that your child takes the medication as required, and to monitor the effects of the medication.
Where can I find a practitioner?
Ask your child’s GP for a referral to a paediatrician or child psychiatrist who is knowledgeable about autism. Your state autism association might also be able to help you find an appropriate professional.
