Marijuana and Autism: What You Need to Know

What is marijuana?

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that contains chemicals called cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects. Another cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), is not psychoactive but has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties.

Marijuana and autism: the research

While there have been a few small studies examining the effects of marijuana on autism symptoms, the research is still in its early stages. Most of the studies have focused on CBD, which has shown promise in reducing anxiety, aggression, and self-injurious behavior in children with ASD.

A study published in the journal Scientific Reports in 2019 found that a high-CBD cannabis extract reduced autism-related behaviors such as anxiety, communication problems, and social withdrawal in a group of 53 children with ASD. Another study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders in 2020 found that a CBD-enriched cannabis oil reduced symptoms such as hyperactivity, sleep problems, and anxiety in a group of 60 children with ASD.

While these studies suggest that CBD may have therapeutic benefits for children with ASD, it's important to note that the research is still in its early stages. More studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of using marijuana or CBD as a treatment for autism.

Potential risks

There are potential risks associated with using marijuana or CBD to treat autism. One concern is that marijuana may interfere with brain development, particularly in children and adolescents. THC can affect the developing brain in ways that may impair memory, attention, and learning ability. There is also some evidence that THC may increase the risk of developing psychosis, particularly in individuals who are already at risk due to genetics or other factors.

Another concern is the potential for marijuana or CBD products to be contaminated with other substances, such as pesticides or heavy metals, which could be harmful to individuals with autism who may have a higher sensitivity to toxins.

It's also worth noting that marijuana is still illegal at the federal level in the United States, and there are legal and ethical considerations when using a substance that is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for autism.

Conclusion

While there is some evidence to suggest that marijuana or CBD may have therapeutic benefits for children with autism, the research is still in its early stages. There are potential risks associated with using these substances, and more studies are needed to determine their safety and efficacy. Parents of children with autism who are considering using marijuana or CBD as a treatment should consult with their healthcare provider and consider the legal and ethical implications.