CBD Improves Autism Symptoms with Few Adverse Effects

A systematic review of scientific studies led by Laura Fusar-Poli, published in  PubMed and in the magazine brain sciences, concluded that there is preliminary evidence demonstrating that CBD can improve symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is estimated that about 1,5% of the world population belongs to the autism spectrum.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in communication and social interaction, by a pattern of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors that can vary in severity.

Several studies have been carried out with children and young people in Israel, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Chile, Austria and the United States. All showed positive results with few adverse effects. The use of CBD (in some cases with small percentages of THC) showed improvements in participants with Autism, namely in:

• behavioral problems
• hyperactivity 
• sleep disorders
• anxiety
• humor
• communication and sociability

Participants in the studies revealed even fewer metabolic and neurological side effects compared to using conventional medications. Treatment with cannabinoids also allowed:

• reduce the number of prescription drugs
• significantly reduce seizure frequency and intensity in participants with comorbid epilepsy
  

The most common side effects of cannabinoids were:

• somnolence
• increased appetite 
• Irritability
  

However, as many patients were taking other medications, it was not possible to determine whether these adverse events were caused by the cannabinoids or another medication. This systematic review concludes that further studies are needed to better understand the mechanism of action of CBD in Autism.

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