Medical cannabis is top of every parent’s mind who has a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Some probably question whether or not exposing a child to cannabis is appropriate, or worth the benefits. Over the last decade a huge amount of research has been done on the topic, and specifically in recent years a lot of data has surfaced for low-THC medical marijuana can dramatically improve the quality of life for patients with ASD. In today’s blog we will define ASD and expand on the benefits of medical cannabis for patients with this condition.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability caused by differences in the brain. ASD can be detected from early childhood, and is often characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, repetitive behavior, and restricted interests. ASD’s limits on communication commonly include a lack of ability to explain desires, follow directions, and delayed language skills. The exact cause is still undetermined, but scientists believe it to be genetic and environmental factors. Some other symptoms include:
- Seems to prefer to be alone
- Seems to tune people out
- Doesn’t smile when smiled at
- Has poor eye contact
- Is very independent for his/her age
Making The Case For Cannabis Care for Autism
Over the last 30 years there have been noticeable spikes in children diagnosed with ASD. Tikun Olam, a Florida based cannabis research company, conducted a first-of-its-kind study on 188 children with ASD using a CBD-rich marijuana strain. The patients were given cannabis oil with a 20:1 CBD to THC ratio. The results from this study have been published and are quite promising.
Based on a six-month follow up survey, the key patient improvements were that 90.2% of patients experienced improvement in symptoms, and 2x the number of parents reported their child had a “good quality of life”. To get more specific, these are the numbers for symptom relief found in this study:
- 100% reported reduction in depression
- 89.8 reported reduction in restlessness
- 89% reported reduction in rage attacks
- 88.8% reported improvement in anxiety
- 84.6% reported decrease or disappearance of seizures
- 83.8% reported a lower level of agitation
- 80% reported significantly less tics
- 62.5% reported digestive support
Medical Cannabis As A Treatment Option for ASD
Medical marijuana can prove to be a great alternative for parents of children with ASD. You have the power to get your child off intense medications with compassionate care. Of 93 surveyed patients, 67 were on prescription medications at intake. 34.3% of patients in this study decreased overall medication use, and 20% stopped taking antipsychotics completely. This all with very limited side effects. Out of all 188 patients, only 23 parents reported undesirable side effects. These were minimally impactful side effects such as dry mouth, sleepiness, and restlessness.
Tikun Olam’s study offers a very powerful collection of information for parents with children suffering from ASD. If parents want to advocate for their children’s long term wellness goals, medical cannabis may be the avenue to take. At Canna Doctors of America we work very closely with ASD patients and their parents to find treatment options that best suit the child’s needs. To set up an initial appointment, use our site booking tool or call 855-949-2266.
Tikun Olam’s site for source reference: Tikuncannabis.com