Did you know that approximately 2.6 million people in the UK have ADHD? Despite this significant number, only 8.2% of those diagnosed are currently receiving prescriptions for ADHD medications 1. This gap has led some individuals to explore alternative treatments, such as medical cannabis.Â
ADHD symptoms, including inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, can significantly impact daily life. However, long-term cannabis use may present challenges, complicating its role in ADHD management. Additionally, frequent substance use can interfere with accurate ADHD diagnosis, leading doctors to delay treatment until substance use is under control.
Combining ADHD medications with cannabis can be complex due to potential interactions, including risks such as heart complications and increased suicidal thoughts. Despite these concerns, private medical cannabis clinics in the UK offer tailored treatment plans for those with ADHD, to help those not wanting to take pharmaceuticals or when traditional treatments have not been effective 1.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 2.6 million people in the UK are affected by ADHD 1.
- Only 8.2% of those diagnosed are currently receiving prescriptions for ADHD 1.
- Regular substance use can complicate the ADHD diagnostic process.
- Medical cannabis offers an alternative treatment when traditional medications aren’t effective.
- Platforms like Mamedica provide personalised treatment plans, including medical cannabis.
Understanding ADHD: Symptoms and Challenges
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affects both children and adults. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with focusing, controlling impulses, and managing hyperactivity. These challenges can make everyday activities, such as work, school, and home life, more difficult, leading to significant disruptions in daily functioning.
In the UK, around 2.6 million people live with ADHD, yet only a fraction receive appropriate medication 2. This underscores the difficulties in diagnosing and effectively treating ADHD. Additionally, those with ADHD often experience comorbid conditions, including sleep disturbances and impulsive behaviors, further complicating management 2.
Effective management of ADHD requires tailored strategies to address symptoms of inattention and impulsivity, enabling individuals to achieve better outcomes in various aspects of life.
Exploring Medical Cannabis: How It Works
The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating functions such as sleep, appetite, mood, and memory. THC and CBD, the primary components of medical cannabis, interact with receptors in the nervous system, potentially helping to alleviate ADHD symptoms.
Studies have shown that individuals using cannabis for ADHD experienced improvements in various measures. For example, scores on the PHQ-9 scale improved by 30–81%, while SCARED scores decreased by up to 33% 3. The SNAP scale, which measures inattention symptoms, also showed a 7–30% improvement 3. These findings suggest that THC and CBD may significantly help manage ADHD symptoms.
However, the absorption and metabolism of CBD and THC vary widely among individuals, leading to different blood concentrations and effects 3. Some patients reported mild side effects, including memory issues, dry mouth, and drowsiness, highlighting the need for a personalised approach to treatment.
One study comparing Sativex spray to a placebo in treating ADHD found no significant difference in cognitive function but did observe improvements in hyperactivity and impulsivity 3. These results indicate that cannabis-based treatments might benefit ADHD management, though further research is needed.
Benefits of Using Medical Cannabis for ADHD
Medical cannabis is gaining attention as a potential alternative therapy for ADHD, offering benefits that traditional medications may not provide. Users report that cannabis helps alleviate symptoms such as hyperactivity, anger, anxiety, and depression, significantly improving daily functioning.
Studies support these anecdotal reports, showing that cannabis use leads to a 7–30% improvement in attention and up to a 33% reduction in anxiety 3. However, some users also experience side effects like memory problems, dry mouth, and drowsiness 3.
Despite these concerns, the growing acceptance of cannabis as a treatment option highlights the need for patient-centred approaches. Many individuals with ADHD prefer cannabis over traditional medications due to fewer side effects like appetite suppression and sleep disturbances.
Studies also examined the pharmacokinetics of cannabis, revealing varying blood concentrations of THC and CBD among users. This variability helps explain why some individuals find cannabis effective for managing ADHD symptoms 3.
While the current evidence is promising, more extensive research is necessary to fully understand the benefits and risks of using cannabis for ADHD. As research continues, the medical community will be better positioned to determine whether cannabis should become a mainstream treatment option for ADHD.
Possible Risks and Concerns
Using cannabis to manage ADHD involves weighing both its benefits and risks. Chronic cannabis use, especially in adolescents, can impair cognitive function, leading to an average loss of 8 IQ points in adulthood 4. Adolescents are also more likely to develop cannabis use disorder compared to adults. Combining cannabis with ADHD medications can reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of heart problems. Additionally, individuals with ADHD who use cannabis are at a higher risk for comorbid mental health issues, such as psychosis 4. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before using cannabis as a treatment option.
Accessing Medical Cannabis Through Private Clinics in the UK
In the UK, obtaining medical cannabis for ADHD is primarily done through private clinics, as NHS access remains limited. These clinics, like Mamedica, offer personalised treatment plans for patients who have not found relief with traditional ADHD medications. The process typically begins with a thorough consultation, where a specialist assesses the patient’s medical history and suitability for cannabis treatment. If deemed appropriate, the patient receives a prescription, which is carefully monitored to ensure efficacy and safety. While private prescriptions can be costly, many patients find the benefits of improved symptom management worth the expense 1.
Conclusion
While medical cannabis offers potential benefits for ADHD, it comes with risks that must be carefully managed. Consulting a healthcare provider and considering private clinics for treatment ensures a personalised and safe approach to managing ADHD symptoms 1
If you’ve been to a private medical cannabis clinic in the UK, share your experience by leaving a UK medical cannabis review at Cannabis Access Clinics. Your feedback is invaluable!
Source Links
- https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-manchester-68243705
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10171029/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8832253/
- https://www.additudemag.com/cannabis-use-disorder-marijuana-adhd/
