Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term? All help greatly appreciated.Best,Caroline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > effects of this long term/short term? > > All help greatly appreciated. > > Best, > > Caroline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 Hi Glenda,How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PM Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > effects of this long term/short term? > > All help greatly appreciated. > > Best, > > Caroline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term?All help greatly appreciated.Best,Caroline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: "sList " <sList >Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature,> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side> effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 It might be helpful if you listen to this free webinar and take note of the needs of people with IDD and autism and the free resources that are available.http://flfcic.fmhi.usf.edu/projects/health.htm To: sList From: autismsara@...Date: Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:06:49 -0800Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggression I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: "sList " <sList >Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature,> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side> effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 All these drugs! If you are attacked on the street the only thing that may save you is that you have more rage than the attacker. The military has used this in bootcamp since time begone. The drill instructor is in your face! I have to do this with my 15 year old aspie on occasion who is bigger than me, but I scare the beejeesus out of him, he cries, I apolojize, and we are best buds again. It's called tough love. From: badillo9@...To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:59:44 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term?All help greatly appreciated.Best,Caroline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 My son takes risperdol and has helped tremendously. Just goes to show you every kid is different. Before risperdol he was so aggressive.Sent from my iPhonePlease excuse typos I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: "sList " <sList >Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature,> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side> effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 We used to go to HRI Pfeifer Treatment Center in Illinois when we lived in that area, (before the new group took it over), and they tested my son for testosterone levels, along with the tests for heavy metals, etc. We were giving my son Niacinamide to help lower it. The doctors at the clinic indicated that they felt this was the primary cause of his melt downs/ rages. I guess he could have a bit of a bi-polar problem, or it may be some other symptom of his autism, but when he doesn't take the niacinamide, he does seem more prone to rages. G. > >> > >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > >> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > >> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > >> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > >> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > >> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > >> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > >> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > >> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > >> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > >> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > >> effects of this long term/short term? > >> > >> All help greatly appreciated. > >> > >> Best, > >> > >> Caroline > >> > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 The only chart I could find was at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reference_ranges_for_blood_tests#Sex_hormones (scan down to chart marked Sex hormones) we were told normally: teenage girls produce about 40 to 50 ng/dl (around age 20 it inreases to around 70 ng/dl) and that teenage boys produce around 1,000 ng/dL - prior to age 10 levels tend to be about 20 ng/dl according to our doctor. The doctor explained that the aggression we saw was connected to estradiol in testosterone. G. > > > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > > aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > > feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > > it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > > treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > > testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > > I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > > it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > > the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > > as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > > have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > > effects of this long term/short term? > > > > All help greatly appreciated. > > > > Best, > > > > Caroline > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 When you are looking at the hormones it's just not about the testosterone....there are quite a number of androgens that can be elevated in these kids, so you need to see the whole picture. There is a science to understanding elevated hormones and it's not just based solely on testosterone levels. Yes aggressive behaviors are one symptom of elevated androgens, but there are many others - increased OCD, excessive fear and anxiety, hyperactivity, obsessive sexual behaviors, seizures, sleep difficulties,abrupt mood swings, balding, excessive body hair, unusual physical strength, precocious puberty...to name a few. If you want to get a complete profile including the genetics contact the Genetic Consultants of Ft. Lauderdale, Dr. Clayman 954 720-1911 I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: "sList " <sList >Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature,> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side> effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 17, 2012 Report Share Posted January 17, 2012 Risperdol increases prolactin levels which keep the testosterone down. That is why you see improvement; however, there are a lot of side effects with psychotropic drugs and they are addicting. My son takes risperdol and has helped tremendously. Just goes to show you every kid is different. Before risperdol he was so aggressive.Sent from my iPhone Please excuse typos I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: "sList " <sList >Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda >> Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent> aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I> feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off> it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he> treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a> testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature,> I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If> it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine> the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this> as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody> have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side> effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 18, 2012 Report Share Posted January 18, 2012 If anyone was to "act like a drill instructor" when my large child is having one of those mood swings, and yells at her "boot camp" style, heaven help that person as they will most likely end up in the hospital with broken bones and serious bruises. I do not recommend the military approach at all with our kids. Our kids are not typical and they can not understand any type of rhyme or reason when they start that downward spiral of serious aggression, much less being yelled at. None of us likes these drugs, but for some of these kids it is the only way coupled with a good behavior plan. All avenues should be explored to create a safe environment for these kids and their caretakers. I don't think yelling at them "boot camp" style is the answer though. Subject: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: sList Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7:32 PM All these drugs! If you are attacked on the street the only thing that may save you is that you have more rage than the attacker. The military has used this in bootcamp since time begone. The drill instructor is in your face! I have to do this with my 15 year old aspie on occasion who is bigger than me, but I scare the beejeesus out of him, he cries, I apolojize, and we are best buds again. It's called tough love. From: badillo9@...To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:59:44 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term?All help greatly appreciated.Best,Caroline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 18, 2012 Report Share Posted January 18, 2012 I feel like I understand both sides of this coin. I also have to get very stern at certain moments with my son, not yelling but letting him know who is alpha because he gets soooo unwound that he needs some reminder of reality, but I only do this if I know it is not an explosive moment. Every child is very different and I truly think different things work at diff times for diff kids! The calm approach is ideal but does not suit every personality all the time, although I am never in favor of yelling at or demeaning a child. You never know what works best for a particular individual. If I didnt get stern some times with my son he would RUN me over like a bulldozer. He actually calms down and you can see feels more secure with some of those firm reminders (strong tone of voice, body presence). Clara To: sList Sent: Wednesday, January 18, 2012 1:45:52 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression If anyone was to "act like a drill instructor" when my large child is having one of those mood swings, and yells at her "boot camp" style, heaven help that person as they will most likely end up in the hospital with broken bones and serious bruises. I do not recommend the military approach at all with our kids. Our kids are not typical and they can not understand any type of rhyme or reason when they start that downward spiral of serious aggression, much less being yelled at. None of us likes these drugs, but for some of these kids it is the only way coupled with a good behavior plan. All avenues should be explored to create a safe environment for these kids and their caretakers. I don't think yelling at them "boot camp" style is the answer though. Subject: Re: Puberty and aggressionTo: sList Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7:32 PM All these drugs! If you are attacked on the street the only thing that may save you is that you have more rage than the attacker. The military has used this in bootcamp since time begone. The drill instructor is in your face! I have to do this with my 15 year old aspie on occasion who is bigger than me, but I scare the beejeesus out of him, he cries, I apolojize, and we are best buds again. It's called tough love. From: badillo9@...To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:59:44 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term?All help greatly appreciated.Best,Caroline Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 18, 2012 Report Share Posted January 18, 2012 I agree with A P. When my husband responds to my son with the " drill instructor " attitude, it just makes the situation worse. If I try to calm the situation down and talk calmly, it works much better. Sometimes nothing will work when my son is having a problem. Glenda > > > > Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression > To: sList > Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7:32 PM > > > >  > > > > > All these drugs! If you are attacked on the street the only thing that may save you is that you have more rage than the attacker. The military has used this in bootcamp since time begone. The drill instructor is in your face! I have to do this with my 15 year old aspie on occasion who is bigger than me, but I scare the beejeesus out of him, he cries, I apolojize, and we are best buds again. It's called tough love. > > > > From: badillo9@... > To: sList > Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:59:44 PM > Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression > >  > > > > > Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. >  > > In a message dated 1/17/2012 12:18:02 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, chopton@... writes: >  > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term? > > All help greatly appreciated. > > Best, > > Caroline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 18, 2012 Report Share Posted January 18, 2012 I have found that if I present aggresively during a period of very challenging behavior..it only escalates aggression and the situation becomes more frantic..I have found that even an easy steady calm redirection does not always work but most of the time it does.."boot camp" style would not work for us.. To: sList Sent: Wed, January 18, 2012 5:04:10 PMSubject: Re: Puberty and aggression I agree with A P. When my husband responds to my son with the "drill instructor" attitude, it just makes the situation worse. If I try to calm the situation down and talk calmly, it works much better. Sometimes nothing will work when my son is having a problem. Glenda> > > > Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression> To: sList > Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7:32 PM> > > >  > > > > > All these drugs! If you are attacked on the street the only thing that may save you is that you have more rage than the attacker. The military has used this in bootcamp since time begone. The drill instructor is in your face! I have to do this with my 15 year old aspie on occasion who is bigger than me, but I scare the beejeesus out of him, he cries, I apolojize, and we are best buds again. It's called tough love.> > > > To: sList > Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 4:59:44 PM> Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression> >  > > > > > Do not use spironolactone if your child has seizures....it's a diuretic and it can lower the potassium/sodium ratio which could trigger a seizure especially in hot weather if your child is dehydrated. However, it is NOT a very strong anti androgen. You are better off contacting Dr. Clayman's office for an appointment 974 720-1911. He is treating high androgens and methylation issues. This way you see exactly what hormones are high...testosterone can also be high from the adrenals producing DHEA and converting to testosterone in addition to the pituitary and the gonads. He has products to address all of the high testosterone issues. Some natural products as well if parents have a preference. They take insurance. Testing is with Lab Corp. >  > > >  > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side effects of this long term/short term?> > All help greatly appreciated.> > Best,> > Caroline> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 20, 2012 Report Share Posted January 20, 2012 good question I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggression To: " sList " <sList > Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? ___________________________________ To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PM Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > effects of this long term/short term? > > All help greatly appreciated. > > Best, > > Caroline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 20, 2012 Report Share Posted January 20, 2012 Thank you all for the huge response to my question. I am particularly interested in hearing more about anyone's experience with Dr. Clayman. You can message me privately if you wish @ chopton@... Thanks again and THANKS DENISE for this wonderful resource!!Best as always,Caroline good question I've tried to find what levels of testosterone are normal for different age ranges. My 9 and 10 year old boys testosterone ranges from 27 to 29. Their pediatrician said they fell into normal ranges, but I've spoken to other mom's who told me young boys should not be above 11. Are there charts or information available, so we can know for sure one way or another? Subject: Re: Re: Puberty and aggression To: " sList " <sList > Date: Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 4:02 PM Hi Glenda, How do you know your son's meltdowns are due to an overabundance of testosterone? ___________________________________ To: sList Sent: Tuesday, January 17, 2012 2:41 PM Subject: Re: Puberty and aggression While I have not used this with my son, I too didn't think the Risperdol helped at all. My son is currently on Stavzor (Depakote) so he isn't able to take the Spironolactone, but I may one day take him off the Stavzor and try this. I hope you will keep us all updated on how well it works, should you decide to try the Spironolactone. My son has some meltdons/rages due to an overabundance of testosterone. Thanks for sharing what this doctor uses. Glenda > > Our non-verbal 12, going on 13 year old has started some more frequent > aggressive behaviors. He has been on Risperdal for some months now but I > feel that it is not doing a thing and I am going to slowly wean him off > it. My next thoughts go to a suggestion by a DAN doctor some time ago...he > treats his own teenage son with Spironolactone. I believe that this is a > testosterone blocker and whilst I am not a believer in messing with nature, > I am wondering if a small dose might help my son cope a little better. If > it's not hard enough not that he can't express himself, I can only imagine > the turmoil he must be going through now with hormonal changes. I see this > as a quality of life issue and I want to do something to help him. Anybody > have any experience with Spironolactone, good or bad? What are the side > effects of this long term/short term? > > All help greatly appreciated. > > Best, > > Caroline > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 21, 2012 Report Share Posted January 21, 2012 I am interested to find out more about the testosterone levels. My 11 year old son has severe aggressive behaviors, and I asked the psychiatrist about the testosterone issues. He said because my son wasn't showing any physical signs of too much testosterone, he didn't think that was an issue, and simply refilled his Risperdal, triliptal and zoloft. Has anyone else has experience with this response from a doctor? Maybe I should try the pediatrician instead. He's had aggression issues all his life, so this is nothing new. But they have escalated recently and he has been Baker Acted 3x. Trying ABA, and the meds, but if there is something else to look at I am all ears. One more thing, I'd like to find a developmental pediatrician who accepts CMS Title 21. Anyone have suggestions in Broward, Palm Beach or North Miami area? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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