February 7, 2019 | Autism
By, Lauraine Kanders, ANP, ACNP-BC
Parents of autistic children have long been of the view that Cannabinoids have an immediate soothing impact on their children. Not only the medication ensures better movement for these kids, but it also helps them overcome the immediate trauma and repercussions that come along with autism.
While there is sufficient room for research here, the restrictions placed on certain researches on cannabis within the United States has meant that there isn’t enough to write about.
However, there is a recent research coming from Israel, which might just prove the hype surrounding cannabis and the effective treatment of autism in kids. The study, which was released at the start of this year, has authenticated the assumption that cannabis has the capabilities to assist patients with autism.
Research Methodology
This study was conducted on 188 patients of autism in Israel. Out of the 188 children made to participate in the study, 82 percent were boys and the remaining girls. The mean age for all participants included in the study was around 12.9 years.
The aim behind the study was to check the efficacy of medical cannabis in treating children suffering from autism. There has been a long debate on this topic, and it was time enough for a reputable study to come and give the clarity that was required.
The researchers aimed to “characterize the patient population receiving medical cannabis treatment for autism and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this therapy.”
The research was conducted for a period of 6 months, by the end of which the research concluded, “Cannabis in ASD patients appears to be well tolerated, safe and effective option to relieve symptoms associated with ASD.”
Treatment and Findings
This research study in Israel reported that autistic children were relatively calm and focused after the use of cannabis for treatment. Not only did they experience visible behavioral changes, but the patients also saw a decrease in the frequency of autism fits and attacks. When such an attack does occur, the patient is able to communicate in a better manner, with more clarity.
The patients, part of this study, reported by the end that their quality of life and mood had significantly improved because of the addition of cannabis to their medication. Only 31 percent of the patients believed they had a good quality of life prior to the study, a figure that drastically increased to 67 percent by the end of the research.
This study is definitely a step in the right direction for research on cannabis use for treating autism. However, researchers believe that there is further room for improvement. “While this study suggests that cannabis treatment is safe and can improve ASD symptoms and improve ASD patient’s quality of life, we believe that double blind placebo-controlled trials are crucial for a better understanding of the cannabis effect on ASD patients.” At Medical Marijuana Recs NY, we provide our visitors with in-depth sessions and certification required for MMJ use. Our group of NPs and doctors strive towards helping you through your condition and ensuring that you get your MMJ certificate, if your condition qualifies. Unfortunately, at this time, the state law does not support Autism as a qualifying condition. But, if you would like to see if your condition qualifies, click here!
