Developmental & Intellectual Disabilities
Certain disabilities are present from birth and can impact a person’s growth, development, intellect, and bodily function. While there is a wide range of developmental and intellectual disabilities that can cause these effects, common conditions include:
- Tourette syndrome
- Spina bifida
- Prader-Willi syndrome
- Hearing loss
- Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder
- Epilepsy
- Down syndrome
- Cerebral palsy
- Autism
- ADHD
The treatment of these disabilities depends on the type and severity of the disorder. In some cases, medication can improve symptoms and quality of life in those afflicted.
How Are Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities Treated?
Most disabilities cannot be cured with treatment, but the following disorders can benefit from a medication regimen:
- ADHD – Stimulants are a common medication provided to children with ADHD. However, some people do not derive benefits from stimulants, in which case doctors can provide non-stimulant drugs to help with focus and attention.
- Cerebral Palsy – Cerebral palsy is associated with numerous symptoms, including muscle weakness, cognitive problems, speech issues, and more. These effects can be managed with medications like antidepressants, anticonvulsants, muscle relaxers, benzodiazepines, and other drugs.
- Autism – Autism is a complete disorder, and medication alone is usually not recommended to treat the condition. However, many people benefit from combining therapy with medications like antidepressants, stimulants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and antianxiety drugs.
- Epilepsy – Anti-epileptic drugs are a common method of treating epilepsy disorder. These medications act on chemicals in the brain to prevent seizures from occurring.
- Tourette Syndrome – The goal of Tourette syndrome treatment is to lessen involuntary tics and movements. In this case, people with the disorder may receive stimulants, antidepressants, dopamine blockers, and antiseizure drugs.
Keep in mind that these medications are intended to control symptoms of developmental and intellectual disorders. Children with these conditions benefit the most from working with a comprehensive medical team capable of providing multiple treatments.
