Jun 17, 2011
If your child has been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, you may be wondering whether you should opt for behavioral therapy or medication to treat Asperger Syndrome.
Several years ago, the FDA approved risperidone or Risperdal for the treatment of “irritability in
autistic children,” but the drug has serious side effects especially for boys.
People with Asperger Syndrome have a different “brain wiring,” and Asperger falls on the autism spectrum. However, it’s not a disease or a medical condition. If a psychiatrist wants to prescribe a medication such as Risperidone, it will be for symptoms such as aggression or accompanying disorders not for social awkwardness.
One of my friends with a son with Asperger Syndrome had him on Risperidone. Because of the side effects such as impotence and massive weight gain that can lead to diabetes, many parents are skeptical about allowing their child with autism to take Risperidone.
Here are some key facts about Risperidone as a medication to “treat” Asperger Syndrome …:
Why Risperidone is prescribed
In most cases, Risperidone, an antipsychotic, is used to treat schizophrenia in adults as well as children 13 and older. Psychiatrists may prescribe it to treat mania for those with bipolar disorder. For autistic children ages 5-16, Risperidone may be used to reduce aggression.
Side effects of Risperidone
In addition to extreme weight gain and impotence in men, Risperdal may cause dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, heartburn, stomach pain, drowsiness, anxiety, agitation, difficulty urinating, vision problems, insomnia. Symptoms that may require immediate attention from emergency personnel include confusion, fever, muscle stiffness, rash, hives, fever, sweating. Other adverse events reported include pituitary tumors in males.
Read in Full:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8153759/dark_side_of_risperidone_for_boys_with.html?cat=5