Cannabis Doctors of New York Published 10/30/2024
In recent years, the conversation around cannabis has shifted dramatically. Once tragically stigmatized; cannabis is now slowly being recognized for its vast array of medicinal benefits, particularly (and for this article) for individuals with special needs and neurodiverse conditions such as autism. This shift in our thinking about cannabis applauds our adapting to the science and evidence, breaking through the cognitive dissonance bolstered by that misinformed past.
Even terms like recreational are now under the scope as so many without quality medical access in this country self-medicate and are unnecessarily drawn to toxic substances instead of safe alternatives like medical-grade cannabis. "Recreational" users are now found through studies that when asked, use cannabis to "help process life problems, not escape them." Escapism has been a classic Ad Hominem attack on cannabis use, science, and medicine. The terminology surrounding this is fundamental and not just a trend but a reflection of our adaptability to grow together as a diverse population and develop the language, tools, and medicine needed to approach neurodiversity with correct terminology connecting concepts.
Here at CDONY, we give you exponentially growing scientific evidence, clinical trials, reviewed analytics, and anecdotal reports that highlight the important impacts of cannabis on the quality of life for individuals within a broad spectrum of diagnoses.
Understanding Cannabis and Its Components
Cannabis is a complex plant with a plethora of chemotypes and an emerging market of cannabinoids, the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is famous for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is non-psychoactive and has been the focus of much medical research due to its potential therapeutic properties². The medical and scientific communities are beginning to embrace the data on the human endocannabinoid system.
Cannabis and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 2024
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental atypicality characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and social interaction, accompanied by restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, obsessive interests, or activities. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential therapeutic effects of cannabis in individuals with ASD.
Much has been studied on this phenomenon and new language has evolved around the topic. The recent Brazilian studies are amazing (and attractive as far as scientific articles go) stating the brilliant results right in the abstract.
“Method; We carried out a systematic review of studies that investigated the clinical effects of cannabis and cannabinoid use on ASD, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA checklist). The search was carried out in four databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Scopus, and Web of Science. No limits were established for language during the selection process. Nine studies were selected and analyzed. Results; Some studies showed that cannabis products reduced the number and/or intensity of different symptoms, including hyperactivity, attacks of self-mutilation and anger, sleep problems, anxiety, restlessness, psychomotor agitation, irritability, aggressiveness perseverance, and depression. Moreover, they found an improvement in cognition, sensory sensitivity, attention, social interaction, and language. The most common adverse effects were sleep disorders, restlessness, nervousness and change in appetite."
"Cannabis and cannabinoids may have promising effects in the treatment of symptoms related to ASD, and can be used as a therapeutic alternative in the relief of those symptoms. ”
Remember when mirror neurons were the 'main discourse' concerning ASD? Now, the technology we have in our hands today is how endocannabinoids affect these neurological symptoms and (now that we have more options for research) how our endocannabinoid system interacts to create drastic positive changes seen in real families. Traditional treatments often focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the core issues. This is where cannabis, particularly CBD, comes flying into play.
Studies have shown that CBD-enriched cannabis can significantly reduce behavioral problems, improve social interactions, and enhance cognitive functions in children with autism¹. For instance, a study conducted in Turkey found that CBD treatment led to a decrease in behavioral issues in 32.2% of patients and an increase in expressive language in 22.5% of patients¹. These improvements are not just numbers; they represent real, tangible changes in the lives of individuals and joy for their families.
Observational Studies:
A 2024 observational study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders reported on the use of cannabis in 188 patients with ASD in Israel (Bar-Lev Schleider et al., 2024). The study found that 91% of patients experienced improvement in restlessness, 90.3% in anger bouts, and 85.2% in agitation, with mild and transient adverse effects. The excerpts from preliminary trials in Israel discuss: When administering oral cannabinoids to 53 children with ASD, reporting included improvements regarding hyperactivity, sleep problems, self-injury, and anxiety. It is important for caregivers to pay close attention to proper consumption, and this can be dialed in by your doctor knowledgeable in Cannabis.
Clinical Studies:
A 2022 randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial published in Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapies evaluated the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract in children with ASD (Silva et al., 2022). The study found significant improvements in symptoms, including sleep disorders, hyperactivity, and repetitive behaviors, with a low incidence of adverse effects.
Important to note, that a 2022 multi-cohort investigation published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives thoroughly examined the association between prenatal cannabis exposure and child autism traits (Bauer et al., 2022). The study found no significant association between prenatal cannabis exposure and increased risk of ASD.
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses:
A 2024 systematic review published in the journal Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy analyzed 15 studies on cannabis use in ASD and found significant improvements in symptoms, including social interaction, anxiety, agitation, appetite, and concentration (Aran et al., 2024). Another review published in Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs (2024) concluded that cannabinoid treatment may be a promising adjunctive therapy for ASD symptoms, particularly for reducing irritability and hyperactivity (Aran et al., 2024).
Broader Impacts on Neurodiversity
Beyond autism, cannabis has shown promise in helping individuals with various neurodiverse conditions. The impressive and extensive studies thus far explore the potential of cannabis to treat core symptoms of ASD. By inferring from studies conducted for pathological conditions and endocannabinoid mechanisms we can deduce (with solid reasoning) that other challenges caused by neurodiverse conditions shared by other patient populations; such as epilepsy and sleep disorders can benefit from cannabis medication. Many neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, anxiety, and sensory processing disorders, report that cannabis helps them manage symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulties with concentration⁷. The endocannabinoid system, in which cannabis is the synergetic agent, plays a crucial role in regulating mood, memory, and pain, making it a potential ally in managing neurodiverse conditions⁸.
Quality of Life Improvements
Studies are proving medicinal cannabis can greatly alleviate some of the challenges that come with living on the spectrum. Cannabis reduced the number and intensity of symptoms such as emotional outbursts, panic attacks, focus, psychomotor agitation, depression, overstimulating sensory issues, and many more. Overall, caretakers in general notice a calm and happy effect on patients with positive outcomes.
One of the most compelling arguments for the use of cannabis in special needs and neurodiverse populations is the improvement in quality of life for individuals, family members, and caretakers. Cannabis can help individuals cope better with daily challenges and enhance quality of life. For example, many patients report that cannabis helps them feel calmer, more focused, and better able to handle social interactions³. This can lead to greater independence and achieving personal goals.
Walking Forward With a Growth Mindset
So…. In 2024 we have great findings...the more we are allowed to research this beautiful plant. Through researchers' hard work studying the complex interactions of cannabis and our endocannabinoid system, we are able to share some insight.
Conclusion:
Recent studies suggest that cannabis is a useful adjunctive therapy for reducing symptoms in individuals with ASD, particularly for irritability, hyperactivity, and sleep disorders. These findings also underline an important potential for humans with different needs. Here at CDONY, we will continue to examine how to prioritize the patient and learn the best ways with the best tools. It is advisable to contact your doctor with the use of cannabis products: and this is very important as cannabis is becoming prevalent in the ASD community; it is essential to prioritize evidence-based research and careful monitoring of its effects per patient. While the potentialities of cannabis are exciting, its benefits are not neurally universal. Staying up to date on the ongoing research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and possible outcomes. Working with a knowledgeable practitioner in conjunction with a dedicated cannabis physician for guidance on use and optimal dosages and titration for different conditions is highly advised.
As research continues to unfold, it is crucial to keep an open mind despite the years of trauma the reefer madness and satanic panic imbued upon our generations...and consider how this ancient plant offers new real hope for those who need relief from daily symptoms that interfere with their optimal experience of life.
Cannabis Doctors of New York strives to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information for our patients and the public. Please come back, subscribe, and keep yourself updated on the latest data on Cannabis. You can now easily book online for NY MMJ certifications, yearly medical renewals, marijuana consultations, cannabis doctor and nurse visits in person, telemedicine online, facility visits and in-home appointments.
Enjoy life through a new lens and leave the stigma in the past where it belongs.
Greg Sondrol - Cannabis Contributor
©2024
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References:
Articles
Aran, A., Cayam, R., & Rand, D. (2024). Cannabinoid treatment for the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs, 29(1), 65-79.
Bar-Lev Schleider, L., Mechoulam, R., & Avivi, S. (2024). Real-life experience of medical cannabis treatment in autism: Analysis of safety and efficacy. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 54(1), 1-12.
Bauer, M. E., et al. (2022). Examining the association between prenatal cannabis exposure and child autism traits: A multi-cohort investigation in the environmental influences on child health outcomes program. Environmental Health Perspectives, 130(4), 460-468.
Ibsen, E. W., Thomsen, P. H., & Hansen, E. H. (2022). Cannabinoids as alleviating treatment for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents: A systematic review. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 78(7), 553-560.
Silva, E. A. D., Jr., et al. (2022). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapies, 44, 1-11.
Silva EAD Junior, Medeiros WMB, Torro N, Sousa JMM, Almeida IBCM, Costa FBD, Pontes KM, Nunes ELG, Rosa MDD, Albuquerque KLGD. Cannabis and cannabinoid use in autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Trends Psychiatry Psychother. 2022 Jun 13;44:e20200149. doi: 10.47626/2237-6089-2020-0149. PMID: 34043900; PMCID: PMC9887656.https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-019-2259-4
Site Links
(1) Medical Marijuana for Autism - Psychiatric Times. https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/medical-marijuana-for-autism.
(2) CBD-enriched cannabis for autism spectrum disorder: an experience of a .... https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00108-7.
(3) Why neurodivergent people are self-medicating with weed. https://www.dazeddigital.com/life-culture/article/60300/1/neurodivergent-people-are-self-medicating-with-weed-cannabis-uk-drugs.
(4) The Neurocognitive Effects of Cannabis Across the Lifespan. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40473-021-00244-7.
(5) Considering Cannabis for Patients with Disabilities. https://www.dubermedical.com/considering-cannabis-for-patients-with-disabilities/.
(6) How Cannabis Helps People With Special Needs - Merry Jane. https://merryjane.com/health/how-cannabis-helps-people-with-special-needs/.
(7) What Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Help Treat? - AARP. https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-2019/cannabis-for-medical-conditions.html.
(8) Neurodivergent cannabis studies are on the rise with these exciting .... https://www.greenstate.com/health/neurodivergent-cannabis-studies/.
(9) Patterns of brain function associated with cannabis cue-reactivity in .... https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-021-05973-x.