AboutValerie Herskowitz Expertise I am an autism expert and speech pathologist (for over 30 years). I am also the parent of a child with autism. I can answer any question on autism dealing with communication, education, behavior and diet. I cannot answer questions that are medical in nature or are dealing with medications.
Experience I have run a therapy center for individuals with autism since 1981. I lecture all over the country. I also teach classes on autism on line.
Organizations American Speech and Hearing Association,
Autism Society of America,
President of the National Autism Registry,
Vice President of the Association for Developmentally Disabled Adults and Adolescents.
Publications Autism Society of America's national publication (September 2008).
Advance Magazine,
South Florida Parenting,
Spectrum Magazine,
I am the author of: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology (available:www.valerieherskowitz.com)
Education/Credentials I have a masters degree in speech pathology
Awards and Honors I won a Stevie Award in 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with individuals with autism. My therapy center won, Judge's Choice Award Best Center in South Florida by South Florida Parenting magazine 2005.
Question Do you know of any correlation of Adderall increasing aggression in male adolescents? My 12 year old son has been on Adderall for three years with very good results, with the occasional dosage change (after some major misses with Risperdol and Concerta). In the past several months we have noticed his behavior becoming more aggressive. When he is off his meds he so much more enjoyable to be around, better personality, more 'joking', and of course totally hyperactive with a two second attention span. Is this common? Could it be an interaction between male hormones and the Adderall? He has no chance of learning at school with his current aggression levels, but at the same time he has no chance of learning if he is so hyper he cannot sit for more than a minute. Any input would be greatly appreciated
Answer Hi Dean
I haven't ever seen a study that relates to a correlation between Adderall and aggression. However, if you notice that he is much better off of the Adderall than on it, why not talk with your doctor about a different medication for his hyperactivity? Since there are absolutely no medications that have been designed for autism specifically, the drugs that are used are to treat the behaviors associated with autism. I find that often you have to change up the meds to get desired effects. I don't know a single person that has been on the exact same drug at the exact same dosage for years and years. And when you add in the fact that your son is going into puberty at this point, then it may really be a sign to re-evaluate him. Do you have a good psychiatrist or neurologist that really understands meds for autism? I find that this is a crucial part of the treatment process. I have used several doctors myself with my son over the years even traveling clear across country for several years to see a psychiatrist. Now I take him once a month 2 hrs south of my home. But it is well worth the drive.
Let me know how it goes.
Valerie Herskowitz, MA CCC-SLP
www.valerieherskowitz.com
Author: Autism and Computers: Maximizing Independence Through Technology
