medication

My son has severe classic autism, as his getting older his behaviour is becoming very difficult to handle,he is very violent and his physically strong! i sometimes worry that my relationhip with him is deteriating. im worried for my other 2 kids,especially as my daughter has epilepsi which can be triggered of my sons outburst! what i want to ask is there any type of medication for children dealing with autism which can help calm them down and manage their behaviour! i dont know how to manage him overwise?

[William L. Holcomb, Ph.D., BCBA-D]

As children with autism spectrum disorders get older they often present new challenges for their caregivers.  First, let me say that there is no way that I can comment on any specific medication that might help with your son’s behavior.  I strongly recommend that you notify the team responsible for your son’s education and treatment about your concerns and ask to convene a team meeting as soon as possible.  It may be that they have resources that may help.  For example, perhaps they can provide (or direct you to an agency that has) behavior analysts that specialize in the kind of problems you are having with your some.  Often a great deal of progress can be made in addressing behavior problems without the use of medications.  If, however, the team feels that your son should be at least assessed regarding the use of a medication for his behavior, then I recommend that you check into your local resources (through your son’s physician or other local health agencies) about the possibility of having him seen by a psychopharmacologist.  Use of medication with children should be approached with caution and a team effort.  If anyone does prescribe any medication for your son, they should be familiar with children with ASD and working in conjunction with a team to determine the best course of action.