Content
Botanical SciencesSeptember 19, 2024
Back to main
Medical Marijuana for Autism

Medical Marijuana for Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has no ‘one size fits all’ treatment since the severity and symptoms are different for each person. Recent studies and anecdotal sources suggest that people with autism can benefit from the therapeutic effects of marijuana, which can be used in conjunction with traditional therapies. Botanical Sciences offers medical marijuana for autism that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, alleviating anxiety and sensory issues. 

What is Autism?

Autism is a multifactorial, pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. 

Autism symptoms start to become apparent as early as 12 months old. Some of the symptoms include the following:

  • Delayed language development, movement, cognitive or learning skills
  • Repetitive behavior patterns 
  • Hyperactivity and impulsiveness (sometimes includes self-harm, rage tantrums, and aggression)
  • Inattentive behavior (lack of concentration or focus)
  • Unusual sleeping or eating habits
  • Inability to express emotions or feelings
  • Atypical mood or emotional reactions (may be stoic when other children are excited or may react strongly to small changes)
  • Unusual sensitivity to light, touch, sound, or smell
  • May worry excessively or experience anxiety or stress
  • Lack of fear or heightened levels of fear 

Medical Marijuana & Autism: Research & Recommendations

Some recent studies have examined how CBD could affect the brains of children with autism. Some parents reported overwhelmingly positive results when they implemented medicinal marijuana as a course of treatment for their autistic child. They noticed mood improvements, a better ability to focus, reduced rage meltdowns, reduced anxiety, improved communication skills, reduced hyperactivity, improved sleep, decreased aggression, and fewer self-induced injuries.

A 2021 study found that medical marijuana can reduce a range of autism symptoms, including:

  • Hyperactivity
  • Lethargy
  • Irritability
  • Aggressiveness
  • Depression
  • Psychomotor agitation (i.e., pacing the room or tapping the toes)

This study also found evidence that marijuana improves cognition, attention, social interaction, and language.

In 2019, a study was done on 53 children who received cannabidiol treatment for 66 days. In this study, researchers found that 70% of children had symptoms like rage attacks, hyperactivity, and sleep problems, which were alleviated with CBD treatment. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. 

Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Here are some of the benefits of medical marijuana treatment for autism spectrum disorder:

1. Reduction of Stress

Medical marijuana may help reduce stress levels in individuals with autism, promoting a calmer and more balanced state of mind.

2. Improved Sleep Patterns

Marijuana may contribute to better sleep quality, helping to regulate sleep patterns that are often disrupted in individuals with autism.

3. Pain Management

Medical marijuana can serve as an effective pain management tool, addressing discomfort that may accompany autism-related conditions.

4. Support for Gastrointestinal Issues

Marijuana may offer relief for gastrointestinal problems, which are common in individuals with autism, by reducing inflammation and improving digestion.

Is Medical Marijuana FDA Approved for Autism?

No, the FDA has not approved any marijuana-derived products for the treatment of autism. However, in Georgia, if you have autism, you may qualify for a Low-THC Oil registry card, which allows you to purchase low-THC oil products. 

Marijuana Dosage for Treating Autism

The correct dosage for treating ASD requires careful consideration and should always be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Dosage can vary based on the individual’s weight, age, and specific symptoms.

Medical Marijuana Risks and Side Effects for Individuals with Autism 

The side effects of medical marijuana patients for individuals with autism can include: 

  • Paranoia 
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability 
  • Decreased short-term memory 

Marijuana Interactions with Other Autism Medications

Medical marijuana may interact with other medications commonly used to treat ASD. For instance, marijuana may enhance the sedative effects of antipsychotics or anxiety medications, potentially leading to increased drowsiness or fatigue. Additionally, marijuana can alter how certain drugs are metabolized, affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.

That’s why you should always consult with a healthcare professional before combining marijuana with other autism medications.

Is It Safe to Take Marijuana for Autism?

Marijuana has shown promising results for the treatment of autism symptoms, alleviating symptoms like anxiety, aggression, and sleep disturbances. For personalized care and high-quality products, explore the products at Botanical Sciences to see how we can support your journey with medical marijuana.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Some studies have indicated that marijuana products reduce the number and intensity of different symptoms, including the following:

    • Hyperactivity
    • Self-induced injury
    • Sleep problems
    • Anxiety
    • Restlessness
    • Psychomotor agitation
    • Irritability
    • Aggressiveness perseverance
    • Depression

If you have autism and qualify for Georgia’s program, you can purchase low-THC oil products containing 5% THC or less. Your options include tinctures that you use under your tongue with a dropper, capsules that give you the same dose every time, and lozenges or soft squares for discreet consumption. There are also topical creams and lotions you can apply to your skin that work locally without affecting your mind. At Botanical Sciences, we offer all these forms so you can select the one that fits your routine and helps with your specific concerns.

The right dosage is different for everyone based on their body weight, age, and which symptoms need to be managed. Working with your physician is essential because they’ll help you begin with a small amount and make changes over time until you find what’s effective.

Yes, people who have autism can legally use low-THC oil in Georgia after joining the state registry. Adults with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis can sign up on their own and buy products directly. For children under 18, a severe autism diagnosis is necessary, and a parent or guardian must register as the caregiver to legally obtain the oil.

First, make sure you have medical documentation showing your autism diagnosis from a licensed doctor. Then you’ll need to meet with a Georgia physician who’s enrolled in the Low THC Oil Registry so they can review your condition and confirm you qualify. This doctor handles sending your paperwork electronically to the Department of Public Health and walks you through signing the notarized waiver. Once the state approves of everything, you’ll get an email with instructions to pay $33.75, your card arrives in the mail, and soon after, you can legally access medicinal marijuana.

No, the state doesn’t set any minimum age limit for autism patients wanting to access medical cannabis. Adults can get their own registry card and visit dispensaries to make purchases themselves. Children need a severe autism diagnosis along with a parent or guardian who registers as their caregiver to purchase and administer the medication.

Share this