marijuana and autism

Can Cannabis Help Autism?

Autism can occur in children when they are only infants and last into adulthood, making social interactions difficult. Many parents of children with autism struggle to find treatment options that work for them but are discouraged by the use of harsh drugs.

Research shows that cannabis can be an effective way to reduce the symptoms of autism, making the disorder more manageable. But is it safe for kids to take? Read on to learn more about taking cannabis for autism, and how it can safely be administered. 

What is Autism?

Autism is refined as a group of neurodevelopment disorders that are characterized by repetitive patterns of behaviour along with social communication and interaction difficulties. The disorder usually presents itself in childhood and lasts into adulthood, affecting daily life. 

Research shows that autism spectrum refers to a wide range of skills, symptoms, and disability levels. Some people with autism are fully functioning, meaning that they can perform all activities of daily life. Others require support to perform basic tasks, such as feeding and bathing. 

Autism can occur in every racial and ethnic group. However, boys are more likely than girls to become diagnosed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that one in 68 children are diagnosed with autism. 

Here are some common symptoms of autism in children:

  • Being overly focused on certain objects
  • Insisting that one’s surroundings and activities be the same daily
  • Difficulty interacting with others socially
  • Verbal problems ranging from no speaking at all to speech that is awkward and inappropriate
  • Unresponsive to one’s own name
  • Delayed speech and language skills 
  • Repeating phrases or giving unrelated answers to questions
  • Having a hard time using or understanding non-verbal cues, such as body language, tone of voice, or gestures (not understanding waving goodbye)
  • Avoiding eye contact with others
  • Difficulty talking about one’s feelings

Research shows that both genetics and environment can play a role in the development of autism. Currently, there is no cure for autism. However, therapies and other interventions are designed to help improve specific symptoms of autism. 

Medications are also available to treat symptoms related to autism, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. However, medication cannot cure autism or even treat its main symptoms. 

Antipsychotic medications can also be used to reduce seizures or improve symptoms of attention deficit disorder. But many of these medications produce negative side effects, leaving parents to search for natural remedies to help their children with autism. 

Does Cannabis Help Autism?

Research shows that cannabis can help autistic children by reducing certain symptoms. However, it’s not a cure nor is it designed to take the place of other treatments, such as therapy.  

According to a study published in the journal Neurology, treating autistic children with a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC reduced aggressive outbursts. Study authors noted that 61% of children who took the treatment experienced reduced aggressive outbursts while 39% experienced reductions in anxiety and 47% reduced their communication problems. 

Approximately 29% of children reduced their disruptive behaviour and parents reported less stress in their children. Adverse effects included sleep disturbances in 14% of children, irritability in 9% and loss of appetite in 9%. 

Another study found that among 15 patients treated with CBD-enriched Cannabis sativa extract (with a CBD to THC ratio of 75/1), only one did not see improvements in their autism symptoms. This study indicated that most patients, both epileptic and nonepileptic, showed some level of improvements after six to nine months of treatment in the following categories:

  • Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Behaviour Disorders
  • Motor Deficits
  • Autonomy Deficits
  • Communication and Social Interaction Deficits
  • Cognitive Deficits
  • Sleep Disorders and Seizures

Authors noted that the side effects were very mild and infrequent. The strongest areas of improvement were in the seizure, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sleep problems, communication and social interaction groups. 

According to a study published in 2019, approximately 30% of children with autism who were treated with a cannabis oil containing 30% CBD and 1.5% THC reported significant improvements in their condition. 

Approximately 53% reported moderate improvements and only 8% said there was no change to their condition. The authors of this study noted that cannabis was well tolerated in children with no major side effects. 

Is Cannabis For Autism Safe For Kids?

While some research suggests that cannabis can be an effective way to manage autism symptoms, it’s important to note that there is no cure. The decision to include cannabis in your child’s autism treatment therapy should be made by you and your child’s doctor.

It’s also important to note that pregnant women should not use cannabis as it has been linked to neurodevelopmental problems in the fetus. Your child’s doctor should be able to recommend dosing and methods of application, which may include oil, tinctures, or capsule form.

Adults with autism should also check with their doctors or caregivers before being administered cannabis to ensure no contraindications with medications or other therapies exist.