Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects up to 5% of the population. It manifests itself from early childhood and persists into adulthood.
The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment is not satisfactory because it usually does not cover a sufficiently wide range of symptoms of the disease and does not help in the long term.
In layman's terms, ADHD is often confused with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), which is a similar disorder but without hyperactivity. Doctors sometimes refer to both disorders as "hyperkinetic disorder."
ADHD is manifested by abnormalities in the development of the central nervous system and impaired regulation at the level of neurotransmitter systems (noradrenergic and dopaminergic). This then affects all cognitive functions . ADHD is also a high risk factor for the development of other psychiatric disorders.
Tendency to self-medicate with cannabis
It has been previously observed that adolescents diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to use cannabis. This has led researchers to wonder whether this is a sign of “self-medication,” or spontaneous self-medication. 1 Individuals with hyperactive-impulsive symptoms in particular seem to be more likely to use marijuana on a daily basis. 2 However, the same is true for children and adults with inattention. 3 Recent studies continue to demonstrate this causal relationship, and it is clear that cannabis treatment is worth further investigation. 4
It is noteworthy in this context that some individuals suffering from ADHD showed a significant normalization of their condition when they had high levels of THC in their blood plasma, and vice versa – abnormal behavior and inattention prevailed when sober. 5
THC vs. CBD
When researchers compared the efficacy and functionality of officially registered cannabinoid-based preparations in patients with ADHD, Bedrocan® (THC) relieved symptoms such as poor frustration tolerance, angry outbursts, boredom and inability to concentrate. In contrast, Bediol ®, which contains both THC and CBD cannabinoids , neutralized the typically intoxicating effects of Bedrocan® and, among other things, contributed to better sleep . 6
However, ADHD is not currently one of the indications for which medical cannabis or THC-containing products can be prescribed. The question is, how much sense does CBD treatment make?
Researchers now believe that CBD is useful in alleviating symptoms of schizophrenia, social anxiety disorder, and the comorbidities of ASD and ADHD . There is weaker evidence for insomnia, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and Tourette syndrome. 7
Sativex spray
Of note is a pilot randomized, placebo-controlled experimental study with Sativex , an oral spray containing cannabinoids (THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio) and terpenes. A sample of thirty adults with ADHD showed significant improvements in hyperactivity and impulsivity, and a trend toward improvement in inattention. The results suggested that the self-medication theory has merit. 8
Selection from studies:
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and lifetime cannabis use: genetic overlap and causality 2020
Genetic overlap and causality between substance use disorder and attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder 2021
Selection from studies:
- ADHD symptoms in childhood and adulthood are associated with more serious cannabis use among college students 2014
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and lifetime cannabis use: genetic overlap and causality 2020
Genetic Overlap and Causality Between Substance Use and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder 2021
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