Research summaries for autism therapy: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

definition of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a neurological disorder resulting in inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD is not included in the autism spectrum disorders.
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The Pharmacologic Treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity in Autism, Summarized Oct 14, 2009

Some medications may improve attention spans and decrease hyperactivity in people with autism.

The author describes clinical trials of drug therapies in autism. Methylphenidate and atomoxetine are both used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These drugs may also help treat ADHD-like symptoms in people with autism. In autism, methylphenidate may work better for hyperactivity, and atomoxetine may work better for attention deficits. Other drug therapies may be helpful for ADHD-like symptoms in autism. Haloperidol, risperidone, clonidine, guanfacine, amntadine, and naltrexone have been researched. All of these drugs have shown improved behaviors in at least one study. However, other studies showed little or no effect of these drugs in autism.

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Using Videoconferencing to Conduct Functional Analysis of Challenging Behavior and Develop Classroom Behavioral Support Plans for Students with Autism, Summarized Oct 9, 2009

Videotaping children with autism during school may help therapists understand the behaviors and make a therapy plan.

This case study involved two children (7 and 11 years old) with autism who were videotaped during school. The researchers used easily-obtained videoconferencing equipment (laptops with video cameras). Observers of the videos observed that these two children would have problem behaviors when they wanted to avoid school work and get attention. The therapists working with the children changed their behavior plan. The end result was fewer problem behaviors and better attention during school.

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Auditory Processing Disorders: Can They be Treated?, Summarized Oct 6, 2009

Auditory (sound) processing training may not improve reading, spoken language, or attention in children with autism.

The author of this article compared 6 studies of auditory training program for children with auditory processing problems. Children with autism may also have auditory processing problems. They may have good hearing but have trouble processing sound input. The author said that commercial auditory training programs can be helpful for improving auditory processing. Nonspeech training and simple speech training were helpful. However, reading, spoken language, or attention were not improved. The author also said that there are few well-controlled studies on this subject, and some poorly-designed studies may be misleading.

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Language Outcomes of Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Two Year Follow-Up, Summarized Sep 24, 2009

They tested children's skills again at about 4 years of age. The children with worse language skills at 2 years old also had worse language skills at 4 years old. The children had poor skills in nonverbal and verbal language, receptive language, symbolic play, and response to joint attention.... Read more...

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Synonyms for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include: ADHD, Attention Deficit, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
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