Marijuana and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Advantages, Drawbacks, and Further Insights

Cannabis Use and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Advantages, Drawbacks, and Further Information

In recent years, the use of cannabis as a potential treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been a topic of interest. However, the relationship between the two is complex, and the evidence supporting its use is still limited.

One concern is the potential for dependence in adolescents. Withdrawal symptoms such as sleeplessness, irritability, and memory issues have been observed in teenage cannabis users. A 2019 report for Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) flags this as a particular risk for young individuals, especially those with ADHD.

The lack of clinical evidence supporting the use of cannabis for ADHD is another issue. Larger clinical trials are needed to confirm the positive effects of cannabis treatment for those with ADHD, as there is currently no all-encompassing, universally accepted treatment approach.

In states where cannabis is legal, buyers are not assured of quality, strength, or correct dosage. This lack of regulation can lead to inconsistent experiences and potential health risks.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) published a position statement in 2019 against medical cannabis as a medication for any psychiatric disorder. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also suggests that teen cannabis users are 4-7 times more likely to develop a dependency than adults.

Despite these concerns, some research suggests that cannabis may have potential benefits for those with ADHD. Dr. Benjamin Caplan, chief medical officer of CED Clinic and EO Care, reports seeing improvements in ADHD symptoms such as inattention and anxiety in the patients he treats.

Caplan observes that cannabis may interact with other medications, sometimes in a supplemental manner, sometimes in counterproductive ways. Researchers for a 2017 randomized control trial speculated that cannabis might help deliver dopamine, as dopamine levels are low in the brains of folks with ADHD.

A 2022 case report shows that after receiving cannabis treatment, three participants improved in depression symptoms, inattention symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and self-regulation. A 2021 study of 1,738 student online survey participants with ADHD concluded that many felt cannabis relieved their ADHD medication side effects such as irritability.

As of June 2022, 38 states have legalized the medical use of cannabinoids to varying degrees. However, it's essential to remember that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled. It's crucial to check state laws, especially when traveling.

The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act, making some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3 percent THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3 percent THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws.

The 2019 CHADD report also flags the similarities between cannabis use symptoms and ADHD symptoms in the areas of motivation, memory, and attention, which may worsen symptoms or cause confusion with diagnosis. NAMI advocates for caution until more clinical studies have investigated the long-term effects of cannabis on the brain.

In conclusion, while cannabis may offer potential benefits for some individuals with ADHD, the risks and uncertainties associated with its use cannot be ignored. Further research is needed to understand the full impact of cannabis on individuals with ADHD and to develop safe and effective treatment options.