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No health checks. However, Abilify and Risperdal is the recommended first line treatment for children with autism. Clonidine is a second line treatment. My son has been on Abilify for almost one year and it has been great. We recently had to add Clonidine for impulsive behaviors.
My son got prescribed it because he's not sleeping well. I was just a bit paranoid about giving him blood pressure meds before getting any health checks e.g. blood pressure, ECG. Thanks so much for your answer.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7213918/
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/what-is...
Clonidine may be a helpful medication for some children with ASD who are experiencing severe irritability, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. However, it is important to weigh the potential benefits and risks carefully before considering this treatment option. It is also essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Contact Autism NZ: For general support and information, you can contact Autism NZ at (Email address can only be seen by the question and answer creators)
Teen Life program (for ages 10-15) had a session in Richmond Nelson that was full as of October 2025. Other autism support in New Zealand includes the Incredible Years program for parents, Raupī te Raupō in the Wellington region, and general autism support services, which can be accessed via a Developmental Coordinator or other referrals.
Did your child need health checks before being prescribed clonidine?
While the search results don't specifically mention clonidine or pre-medication health checks, it's important to know that doctors typically do evaluate a child's overall health before prescribing any medication for autism-related behaviors.
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