ODD/Autism

[Cloudywithachanceoftantrums]

My son was dx with Autism at the young age of 2, but before that is was spectrum disorder and now ODD. We had him on Risperdol  and it was life changing for him and my husband and I, we loved it, but my son now 8 developed coughing  tics, and facial ticks from it. We took him off around 6 years old when we noticed the permanent side effects. We have tried Guafacine, and Vyvance, neither one them has helped. He was considered high functioning because of all the help and support he had at a young age. Now he has regressed with a noticeable difference. He abuses pets, his sister who is  9 years older than him and refuses to do anything that he is told to do. He often acts like he's the victim and the word "no" is always a sure melt down. I could use any advice, or prayer anyone has to offer, I love my son, but this is no way to live.
ps I had someone tell me that her son had Autism before it was cool. When did having a child with a disability become cool?


This discussion is related to Meds for ODD -- what's considered best? what to avoid?.

[Sandman2]

   Beside the medication, was he also getting the behavioral training that goes with autistic kids.  Or was he just getting meds?

[MarkLakewood3367]

It is very difficult for me to believe or understand why anyone would diagnose a 2 year old with ODD and place him on psychotropic meds for years for this condition.  Unfortunately, I think what you are currently seeing side effects, possibly permanent, to these strong medications.  My only recommendation at this point would be to have him evaluated by perhaps another pediatrician to find out if the behaviors you are witnessing is a direct result of years of medication usage, if any of these behaviors are in fact permanent, and treatment alternatives.