7 questions to ask the doctor before starting a new medication for your child

When consulting a doctor or psychiatrist regarding co-occurring issues in children on the autism spectrum, the suggested treatment will often include medication. In this field, many of the medications are aimed at improving function rather than treating a medical condition—unlike, for example, prescribing antibiotics for an infection.It’s important to understand this distinction and make informed decisions accordingly.

I’ve created this short guide to support you if you’re currently facing a decision about medication.

Wishing you the best of luck!

7 questions to ask the doctor before starting a new medication for your child – cut and keep!

1. 🧠 Understand the purpose of the medicationWhat is the exact diagnosis for which this medication is being recommended?What is the medication expected to improve – behavior? Mood? Attention? Sleep? Pain?
   

2. ⏱ Duration and effect timelineWhen should we expect to see a change? How soon?Is it a short-term treatment or a long-term one?How will we know when to stop? Is it easy to discontinue?
   

3. ⚠️ Side effects and warningsWhat side effects might occur – and which require immediate attention?Could it affect sleep, appetite, mood, growth, or learning?How will we know if this medication isn’t right for our child?
   

4. 🔁 Alternatives or other treatmentsAre there non-medication options we can try (e.g., nutrition, supplements, emotional/behavioral therapy)?Can we try a gradual approach (e.g., low dosage or a trial period)?
   

5. 🔍 Tests and monitoringAre any tests required before starting or during the course of this medication?How often will follow-up be needed, or dosage adjustments?
   

6. ⚖️ Balancing benefit vs. riskWhat is the success rate of this medication in children of similar age and condition?What’s the risk of not giving it – and the risk if we do?
   

7. 📄 Practical aspectsIs there a liquid version or another form that’s easy to take?Is this medication addictive or habit-forming in any way?
   

❤️ One last and important question:If this were your child – would you give this medication at this stage?

About the Author:Netta Gerad, ND, is a certified naturopath and holds an MBA from Ben-Gurion University. She is also a former military medic. Netta runs a naturopathic clinic specializing in autism, developmental delay, and longevity.She serves on the board of the Naturopathic Association, co-directs the Functional Testing Training Center at Levinsky-Wingate College, and is an active participant in international conferences.

Netta Gerad 🧘🏻‍♂️ | Netta the Naturopath