Did you know that up to 30% of autistic children also suffer from epilepsy? This significant overlap underscores the importance of exploring diverse treatments. Medical cannabis, particularly CBD oil, is garnering a lot of attention for its potential to alleviate core autism symptoms such as stress, aggression, and social interaction difficulties.
CBD oil, unlike some medications, doesn’t cause weight gain and might even reduce appetite. Derived from industrial hemp, it’s legal in many regions, including the UK and the US, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC. It’s crucial to distinguish between CBD oil and medical marijuana; while CBD oil is widely available, medical marijuana remains illegal without a doctor’s prescription in many places.
One notable product is Charlotte’s Web, a hemp-derived oil rich in CBD. Parents have reported its benefits in managing seizures and autism symptoms. However, it’s essential to use these products under medical supervision to ensure safety and efficacy1.
Key Takeaways
-
- CBD oil can help manage autism symptoms such as stress and aggression.
- Many autistic children also have epilepsy, highlighting the need for effective treatments.
- CBD oil is legal in many areas due to its low THC content, making it more accessible than medical marijuana.
- Parents have seen positive outcomes from using products like Charlotte’s Web for seizures and autism symptoms.
- Medical supervision is crucial to ensure the safe and effective use of CBD oil.
Understanding Medical Cannabis and Autism
To understand autism treatments involving cannabis, it’s essential to differentiate between medical marijuana, hemp, and CBD. The key differences lie in THC levels and legality. Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica are the main types of cannabis plants used for medical purposes. Indica typically has higher THC content, which is crucial for medical marijuana used with autistic children.
The legal landscape for medical cannabis and autism is evolving. Currently, cannabis is used to help with autism in 14 states, and it’s legal for medical purposes in 33 states and Washington, DC. This trend reflects a growing acceptance of cannabis for various health issues.
Parents must navigate the legal complexities of using medical marijuana for autism. By 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 1 in 54 children had autism spectrum disorder, a 10% increase from 2014. Boys are diagnosed four times more often than girls2.
Hemp, with very low THC, is used to produce legal CBD oil. This distinction is significant because, while the US still views cannabis as highly dangerous, the FDA has a more favourable stance on CBD, placing it in Schedule 5, which indicates very light regulation. An example is Epidiolex, a CBD medication for seizures, approved by the FDA in 2018, marking a shift towards acceptance of cannabinoid medicines.
How Medical Cannabis oil Works for Autism
Medical cannabis oil, especially CBD, interacts with the brain and immune system differently than THC. THC binds to brain cells, altering their function, while CBD modulates immune responses without directly affecting the brain. This makes CBD a safe therapeutic option as it doesn’t induce a high.
Researchers are investigating how cannabis oil can benefit people with autism. CBD’s ability to reduce seizures is particularly significant, given the high prevalence of epilepsy among autistic children. CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, offering various therapeutic effects. Oils that contain all the plant’s compounds, like Charlotte’s Web, might be even more effective.
While scientists are still uncovering the mechanisms behind CBD’s effects on autism, early signs are promising. Reports suggest that CBD can reduce aggression and violent outbursts in autistic children. Ongoing studies aim to clarify these effects, potentially leading to new, effective treatments1.
Benefits of Medical Cannabis for Autism
The potential benefits of medical cannabis for autism are gaining attention, supported by anecdotal evidence and emerging studies. Parents report that CBD oil helps reduce aggression and anxiety in their children, which are significant concerns for those with autism.
Approximately half of individuals with autism also experience behavioural issues. CBD oil may help address these challenges. Researchers are also exploring other cannabis compounds, like CBDV, for their potential benefits. These compounds might improve social interactions and reduce behavioural problems in autistic individuals.
The combined effects of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, known as the ‘entourage effect,’ might enhance the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis for autism. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Some studies and anecdotal evidence indicate that CBD oil may not only reduce aggression but also decrease the frequency of seizures in autistic individuals. Additionally, CBD’s calming effects might help alleviate social anxiety, making social interactions less stressful for those with autism3.
In the UK, CBD oils have almost no THC and meet local laws4.
NHS vs Private Medical Cannabis Clinics
When considering medical cannabis for autism, it’s important to understand the differences between obtaining treatment through the NHS and private medical cannabis clinics.
NHS:
- Limited Access: The NHS has strict criteria for prescribing medical cannabis, primarily limited to severe cases such as treatment-resistant epilepsy and chemotherapy-induced nausea.
- Lengthy Process: Obtaining a prescription through the NHS can be a lengthy and challenging process, often requiring multiple specialist consultations and approvals.
- Cost: Treatments provided through the NHS are generally free at the point of delivery, reducing the financial burden on patients and their families.
Private Clinics:
- Broader Access: Private medical cannabis clinics offer a wider range of treatments for various conditions, including autism. This flexibility allows more patients to access the benefits of medical cannabis.
- Faster Service: Private clinics often provide quicker access to consultations and prescriptions, reducing waiting times significantly.
- Personalised Care: These clinics offer tailored treatment plans and ongoing support, ensuring that the treatment is adjusted to meet the specific needs of each patient.
- Cost: While private treatments can be costly, they provide an option for those who do not meet the NHS criteria or prefer faster access to medical cannabis.
By offering a more personalised and accessible approach, private medical cannabis clinics play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for patients who may not have found relief with conventional treatments.
Risks and Considerations
Safe usage of CBD oil is crucial. Be aware of potential side effects such as nausea or drowsiness. To ensure safety, purchase CBD oil from reputable sources to avoid fake products or harmful additives.
In the UK, CBD oils must have very low THC content and comply with local regulations. It’s important to buy from trusted sellers to ensure product quality and legality.
Using cannabis for autism requires careful consideration. Precise dosing and monitoring for potential interactions with other medications are essential. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the best and safest advice on using medical cannabis.
Conclusion
The potential of CBD oil as a treatment for autism is an exciting and rapidly developing field. Early evidence and anecdotal reports suggest that it can reduce anxiety, aggression, and improve social interactions. Given that approximately 40% of individuals with autism experience significant anxiety, CBD oil might also help improve sleep.
Current studies are exploring how cannabinoids can address major behavioural issues associated with autism. These studies are showing promise in managing aggression, improving sleep, and reducing hyperactivity. As the prevalence of autism continues to rise, ongoing research is crucial to fully understand and validate the benefits of medical cannabis.
Deciding to use medical marijuana for autism is complex. While early results are promising, more extensive studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. The evolving legal landscape reflects growing acceptance and understanding of cannabis as a therapeutic option. Until we have more conclusive evidence, it’s important to proceed cautiously and under medical supervision6.
Have you visited private medical cannabis clinics in the UK? Consider leaving a medical cannabis clinic review at Cannabis Access Clinics to support the community!
Source Links
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/cbd-oil-autism/
- https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/medical-marijuana-for-autism
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9887656/
- https://www.thinkingautism.org.uk/taking-action/resources-and-publications/cannabis-cbd-for-autism/
- https://www.thinkingautism.org.uk/taking-action/resources-and-publications/cannabis-cbd-for-autism/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/autism-and-marijuana
