The Risperdal has literally been a wonder drug for AJ. We were, initially, very hesitant about it because of the side effects; drooling, ticks and twitches (which can be irreversible), sleepiness, increased OCD tendencies, increased urination, and rapid weight gain because of increased appetite.

Side Effects

AJ has had some side effects but most of them have been good. He does have an increase in appetite, which we have to monitor closely because of his hypoglycemia and he has, we believe, gained some weight. He also has had some constipation but we are not sure if that is because we are staying at my parent's house or it that can be attributed to the medication.

He is tired but he is also more calm. He actually laid down with me on Thursday morning and took a 20 minute nap on his own accord...he told me he wanted a nap, asked me to join him and fell asleep. When he woke he smiled at me and hugged me.That evening at 6:30 he told me it was sleepy time and asked for his night-night medicine so he could go to bed, walked into his bedroom at my parent's house and got into bed...in his clothes. He fell right to sleep.

Benefits

AJ has been much more talkative and has been able to communicate his needs to us more frequently and more effectively. He is talking in more complete sentences as well as expressing his feelings more. Receptively, he is able to follow two or three step directions without visual prompts and is not frustrated with the directions like he used to be.

He is also able to calm quicker, listen better, and transition easier. He is starting to be able to reason, use cause-effect thinking, and is being very creative (a handmade kite). Additionally, he is being very independent and taking charge of things that a 5 year old should. If I ask him to help with a chore now he will (most often) do it. ie: carry towels or a box, put toys away, etc.At school they are seeing the same things with speech, both receptive and expressive and they are very impressed.

I'm impressed with his mood, his humor, and his independence. He seems so much like a little boy now and it makes me SO happy.