I have a 5 y/o son with Autism as well as hyperactivity. His father has ADD and ADD and ADHD are heavy in his father's family. My side of the family is heavy in ADD. Although my son has not been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD I am highly suspect that he has it. I understand Autistic children are hyper and are more energentic than non-autistic children. A little background....he has high functioning autism....he has the hand flapping when he is excited, pinches when overly excited or wanting attention, and has a speech delay - he speaks at about the 2-3 year level....some 5 word sentences but only understanable by those around him dailty. He is on the GFCF diet as well as in special education (3rd year) and undergoing the ABA therapy while at school.

My question is this....what can I do to curb the hyperactivity? At times it's out of control - he's all over the place and he screams (yes, this is another part of the Autism)...he is also very oppositional (again, not diagnosed by suspected). I'm very torn at the idea of using Ritalin or any other behavioral drugs but my boyfriend wants me to try them. His father, however, is opposed. If it helped and could help in his progress by keeping him focused I'm all for it...yet, at the same time - I'm not a pill pusher and don't want my child walking around like a zombie. I've done research via the internet and am finding varying reports....behavior altering drugs can be determintal for autistic children and that it can help.

Anyone out there tried Ritalin, Adderall, etc with their autistic children? Did it help? Would you recommend it?

I am going to talk to his pediatrician tomorrow and see what she thinks...but I need advice from those who deal with this every day at home....not what the medical field says.

Thank you in advance! ANY suggestions or help are appreciated!  read more »