Understanding ADHD and Asperger's: Diagnosis & Treatment

Asperger's syndrome and ADHD have many similar symptoms and may even serve as differential diagnoses for one another. Often, the two disorders co-exist within the same child, posing treatment challenges.

Identification

• According to Dr. Daniel Rosenn, the DSM IV instructs physicians to avoid giving children an ADHD diagnosis along with any autism spectrum disorder. However, more than half of all individuals with Asperger's syndrome also have ADHD symptoms.

Stimulants

• The customary treatment for ADHD is stimulant medication. However, Dr. Rosenn explains that these drugs often do not agree well with a child with Asperger's sydrome. Often, these children experience adverse side effects such as tics and a noticeable increase in repetitive behaviors.

Amphetamines

• Physicians may also prescribe amphetamines to treat ADHD in those with Asperger's Syndrome. Common amphetamines include Adderal and Dexedrine.

Antidepressant and Anti-Anxiety Medications

• Children who take stimulants may also be prescribed anti-anxiety medications to counteract negative side effects of the stimulants and to also decrease other symptoms of anxiety. Wellbutrin is frequently prescribed to individuals with Asperger's syndrome and ADHD.

Considerations

• Medications may be need to changed, combined or dosages adjusted to find the best treatment for each individual.