Aspergers Syndrome

If you do any research on Aspergers Syndrome you will find there is no one medication that will help Aspergers. Many children still suffer from hyperactivity (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety and more due to Aspergers Syndrome. There are many medications out that specifically target those symptoms. The website “Neurology Channel” at: http://www.neurologychannel.com/aspergers-syndrome/treatment.shtml
discusses different symptoms and medications that can be taken and monitored for many different symptoms.

My daughter was already on Concerta for an ADHD diagnosis she had around first grade. Although it might not actually be ADHD but a symptom of Aspergers Syndrome our doctor has left her on this medication. Our biggest concern is since Concerta (and many other ADHD medications) is a controlled substance and we didn’t want her taking any more then she could possibly need to function. Our doctor tried lowering her dosage, but we immediatley saw a drop in her ability to focus, function, and an increase in conflicts with her family members. We were put back on her original dosage of Concerta. Being a Pharmacologist as well as a Neurologist our doctor has seen many different drugs and combinations work for Aspergers children, but it is a matter of trying things to see what works for this specific child.

Our doctor asked if we would be willing to try Prozac. He explained he had seen results in Aspergers children on Prozac because it targets anxiety, obsessions, and depression (even if they don’t exibit it doesn’t mean it isn’t there). His hope was if the Prozac worked to help with specific areas we could the reduce her Concerta. We started on a small dosage of Prozac and slowly built up. Of course we got all the information about side effects and what to watch for. We visited each week to discuss any changes. We go almost all the way to the maximum dosage for her, and yet there was absolutely no change or effect on her. We gradually reduced the dosage and took her off of Prozac. The interesting note from the doctor was the majority of people on Prozac react either positive or negative to the drug. Only about 1% of people have absolutely no reaction what so ever. Well, that is my daughter for you.

With Prozac out of the way, our doctor still was concerned about the high dosage of Concerta that was required to help her stay where she could function and focus. Her weight and size has remained very small for her age. She also has trouble sleeping. Both are symptoms of a controlled substance like Concerta. He decided to try reducing her Concerta again but supplimenting it with Stratera (non-stimulant drug). This has actually worked and allowed her to maintain the level of focus and fuction she needs. By reducing the Concerta she may regain her appetite and sleep better at night.

I am thankful to live in a time of medical technology. We know that each day new techniques, medications and information are found to help in the medical field. We can only hope that as Aspergers Syndrome is continually researched that they can find new information for it as well. I am just greatful we have the diagnosis and know what we are dealing with so we can face it head on!