Cannabis Use in Autism

February 25, 2025

By Arch Recovery Center

Uncover the unconventional connection between marijuana and autism. Explore the potential benefits and risks for ASD symptoms.

Understanding Cannabis and Autism

Cannabis has been a subject of interest in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) due to its potential effects on autism symptoms. While research is ongoing, several studies have shed light on the effects of cannabis on individuals with ASD.

Effects of Cannabis on Autism Symptoms

Research suggests that cannabis products may have a positive impact on various symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder. Some studies have shown that cannabis products reduced the number and intensity of different symptoms, including hyperactivity, self-mutilation and anger attacks, sleep problems, anxiety, restlessness, psychomotor agitation, irritability, aggressiveness, perseverance, and depression.

Furthermore, improvements have been observed in cognition, sensory sensitivity, attention, social interaction, and language in individuals with ASD who received cannabis treatment [1]. Notably, a study conducted in Israel involving 82 participants with ASD found that children and adolescents treated with CBD-rich cannabis exhibited significant improvements, particularly in social symptoms. Social communication abilities, as quantified by standardized clinical assessments such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and Vineland, showed significant improvement after a 6-month treatment protocol.

Potential Benefits of Cannabis Treatment

The potential benefits of cannabis treatment for individuals with ASD extend beyond social symptoms. In a 2019 study, it was found that almost 70% of children with ASD who experienced rage attacks showed improvement after receiving cannabidiol (CBD) treatment. Additionally, significant improvements were reported in children with hyperactivity, sleep problems, and anxiety when treated with CBD. Furthermore, an observational study conducted on 188 ASD patients treated with medical cannabis revealed that after six months of treatment, 82.4% of patients reported significant or moderate improvement in their condition.

It's important to note that the effects of cannabis treatment for ASD may vary from individual to individual. While some individuals experience significant improvements, others may experience more moderate or slight improvements. It's crucial to approach cannabis treatment for autism with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

As research continues to explore the potential benefits and risks of cannabis use for autism, it is essential to conduct controlled studies to better understand the effects and clarify the potential benefits and limitations. This will enable healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and recommendations regarding the use of cannabis as a treatment option for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, public education on cannabis, its potential effects, and the need for clinical trials is crucial to ensure informed decision-making and safe usage.

Adverse Effects and Risks

When considering the use of cannabis in the treatment of autism, it's important to be aware of the potential adverse effects and risks associated with its use. While cannabis has shown promise in alleviating certain symptoms of autism, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks.

Side Effects of Cannabis Use

Studies have reported various side effects associated with the use of cannabis products in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These side effects ranged from mild to moderate and were generally transient in nature. Common side effects reported include:

Sleep disorders
Restlessness
Nervousness
Changes in appetite
Moderate irritability
Diarrhea
Increased appetite
Conjunctival hyperemia
Behavioral problems
Decreased cognition
Fatigue
Aggression/agitation

It's important to note that these side effects are not experienced by all individuals and may vary in severity. Additionally, the occurrence of side effects is relatively low, with only a small percentage of individuals experiencing them.

Risks of Cannabis Exposure

While cannabis has shown potential benefits in treating certain symptoms of autism, there are also risks associated with its use. Some individuals may experience serious harms or adverse reactions to cannabis treatment, including episodes of psychosis [3]. It is essential to carefully consider these risks and discuss them with a healthcare professional before considering cannabis as a treatment option.

A study on medical cannabis treatment reported various side effects experienced by patients at six months, including restlessness, sleepiness, psychoactive effects, increased appetite, digestion problems, dry mouth, and lack of appetite. Furthermore, a significant number of patients discontinued treatment due to the lack of therapeutic effect or side effects [4].

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of cannabis as a treatment for autism, further research is needed, particularly randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. These studies would provide more comprehensive insights into the potential risks and benefits of cannabis and its cannabinoids in individuals with ASD.

It is important to approach cannabis use for autism treatment with caution and consult with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance based on individual circumstances. Public education is also crucial to ensure that accurate information regarding cannabis use for autism is disseminated to the public.

Research Findings

When exploring the potential connection between cannabis and autism, it is important to examine the research findings. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of cannabis on autism symptoms, shedding light on its potential benefits and impact on individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Studies on Cannabis and Autism

Research studies have shown promising effects of cannabis and cannabinoids in treating symptoms related to ASD. These effects include reductions in hyperactivity, self-mutilation, anger, sleep problems, anxiety, restlessness, psychomotor agitation, irritability, aggressiveness, perseverance, and depression. Additionally, improvements were observed in cognition, sensory sensitivity, attention, social interaction, and language in individuals with ASD [5].

It is important to note that while these findings are promising, there is a lack of consistent evidence regarding the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of cannabis and its derivatives in individuals with ASD. Therefore, further research is necessary to fully understand the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis use for autism.

Impact of Cannabis Products

Studies investigating the effects of cannabis products on ASD symptoms have utilized various formulations. These include cannabis extract, CBD-rich oil, CBD in oral solution, dronabinol (synthetic THC), and cannabidivarin (CBDV). The samples included children, adolescents, and adults, with varying proportions of CBD and THC in the products.

While some studies have reported positive outcomes in symptom management, it is important to consider the individual variations in response to different cannabis products. The impact of cannabis products can vary depending on factors such as the specific formulation, dosage, and the unique characteristics of each person with ASD.

Adverse effects reported from the use of cannabis products in individuals with ASD were generally mild to moderate and transient. These effects include sleep disorders, restlessness, nervousness, changes in appetite, irritability, diarrhea, increased appetite, conjunctival hyperemia, behavioral problems, decreased cognition, fatigue, and aggression/agitation. Careful consideration and monitoring of potential adverse effects are essential when exploring the use of cannabis for individuals with ASD.

Understanding the research findings on cannabis and autism provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and risks associated with its use. However, it is crucial to recognize the need for further controlled studies, particularly randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. These trials would help clarify the effects, efficacy, safety, and tolerability of cannabis and its cannabinoids in individuals with ASD. Such controlled studies are necessary to provide evidence-based recommendations and guidelines for the use of cannabis as a potential treatment option for autism.

CBD and ASD

CBD, short for cannabidiol, has gained attention for its potential therapeutic effects on various health conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this section, we will explore the use of CBD as a treatment for autism and its effects on ASD symptoms.

CBD Treatment for Autism

Several studies have investigated the use of CBD in the treatment of autism, showing promising results. An open-label study conducted in Israel involved 82 participants with ASD who completed a 6-month treatment protocol using CBD-rich cannabis. The study found significant improvements, particularly in social symptoms, as quantified by standardized clinical assessments and parental reports. The improvements were observed in social communication abilities, as measured by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and Vineland assessments. Notably, participants with more severe initial symptoms exhibited the most significant improvements in social communication abilities.

Another study found that children with ASD who experienced rage attacks showed improvement after receiving CBD treatment. Additionally, children with hyperactivity, sleep problems, and anxiety also demonstrated improvements with CBD use.

CBD Effects on ASD Symptoms

The effects of CBD on ASD symptoms have been studied extensively. An observational study analyzed 188 patients with ASD treated with medical cannabis for six months. The study found that 82.4% of patients reported significant or moderate improvement in their condition. The most common symptoms reported at intake, such as restlessness, rage attacks, and agitation, showed significant improvement after six months of treatment.

Moreover, the study revealed that the quality of life, mood, and ability to perform daily activities significantly improved in ASD patients after six months of medical cannabis treatment. Good quality of life, positive mood, and the ability to perform daily tasks independently increased among the participants. Additionally, improvements were observed in sleep, concentration, and the ability to dress and shower independently.

While these studies suggest the potential benefits of CBD for individuals with ASD, it's essential to note that further research is needed to fully understand the effects and determine optimal dosage and administration methods. Controlled clinical trials are necessary to clarify the efficacy and safety of CBD treatment for autism, ensuring the well-being of individuals with ASD.

Considering the potential therapeutic effects of CBD, it's important for individuals considering CBD treatment for ASD to exercise caution and consult with healthcare professionals experienced in cannabinoid therapies. Public education on the use of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, is crucial to ensure individuals make informed decisions and understand the potential risks and benefits associated with these treatments.

Need for Controlled Studies

When exploring the potential connection between cannabis and autism, it is crucial to recognize the importance of conducting controlled studies. These studies, particularly clinical trials, play a pivotal role in providing reliable and evidence-based information regarding the effects of cannabis on individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Importance of Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are essential for assessing the safety, efficacy, and potential benefits of cannabis as a treatment for ASD symptoms. While there is some suggestion that cannabis and its constituents may offer therapeutic alternatives for alleviating certain ASD symptoms, such as anxiety or aggression, the necessity for randomized, blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials is emphasized to provide clarity on the effects of cannabis and its cannabinoids in individuals with ASD.

By conducting rigorous clinical trials, researchers can gather data that is crucial for making informed decisions about the potential use of cannabis as a treatment option for individuals with ASD. These trials allow for the evaluation of the effects of cannabis on specific symptoms, the identification of potential risks or adverse reactions, and the determination of optimal dosages.

Clarifying Cannabis Effects

There is a need to clarify the effects of cannabis on individuals with ASD through controlled studies. While some studies and anecdotal accounts suggest that cannabis may benefit individuals with certain ASD symptoms, a comprehensive analysis of existing peer-reviewed literature concluded that there was a lack of clear evidence supporting the reduction of ASD symptoms with cannabis use [3].

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis use for individuals with ASD, large-scale studies are urgently needed. These studies can shed light on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of cannabis and its derivatives in managing ASD symptoms. By conducting well-designed clinical trials, researchers can gather more robust evidence to guide healthcare professionals and families in making informed decisions regarding the use of cannabis as a treatment option for ASD.

It is important to note that caution should be exercised when considering cannabis as a treatment for ASD, especially due to the potential risks associated with exposure to high THC concentrations [6]. The complex relationship between autism and psychosis, as well as the need to consider the developmental trajectory and potential consequences of cannabis use, underscores the necessity for controlled studies to guide healthcare professionals and families in making informed decisions.

By prioritizing controlled studies, including clinical trials, researchers can provide the much-needed clarity and evidence-based information regarding the effects of cannabis on individuals with ASD. These studies are crucial for advancing our understanding of the potential benefits, risks, and appropriate use of cannabis as a treatment option for ASD, ultimately improving the care and support available for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Considerations and Recommendations

When it comes to the use of cannabis for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), caution and public education are essential. While there may be potential benefits in treating certain symptoms associated with ASD, it is crucial to approach cannabis use with care and prioritize evidence-based practices.

Caution with Cannabis Use

The use of cannabis for treating ASD symptoms should be approached with caution due to several factors. Firstly, the adverse outcomes of cannabis use in individuals with ASD are still unclear, and the potential risks need further examination [6]. Secondly, the long-term effects of cannabis use in adolescents and youth with ASD are not fully understood, and the possibility of progression to major psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia, should be considered [6].

It is important to note that the use of cannabis should be guided by healthcare professionals with expertise in ASD and the potential therapeutic use of cannabis. Individualized treatment plans should be developed, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of each person with ASD.

Public Education on Cannabis

Public education plays a crucial role in ensuring informed decision-making regarding cannabis use in the context of ASD. It is vital to provide accurate and up-to-date information to families, caregivers, and individuals with ASD. By promoting awareness and understanding, individuals can make well-informed choices regarding the use of cannabis as a potential treatment option for ASD symptoms.

Education should emphasize the importance of seeking guidance from healthcare professionals and conducting thorough research before considering cannabis treatment. It is crucial to distinguish between medical cannabis, which is used under the supervision of healthcare providers, and recreational cannabis, which may have different effects and potential risks.

By providing comprehensive education, individuals and families can make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being and safety of individuals with ASD.

In conclusion, caution should be exercised when considering the use of cannabis for individuals with ASD. While some studies and anecdotal accounts suggest potential benefits, further research and larger-scale controlled studies are necessary to clarify the effects, risks, and efficacy of cannabis as a treatment for ASD symptoms. Public education is vital to ensure accurate information is available and to discourage the recreational use of cannabis in ASD individuals, particularly adolescents and youth, to prevent potential adverse outcomes.