Evidence supporting the use of: Phytocannabinoids
For the health condition: Autism

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Phytocannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), have gained attention as a potential adjunct therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The interest is based on early scientific evidence and anecdotal reports rather than historical or traditional use. Several small-scale clinical studies and case reports suggest that CBD, and to a lesser extent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may help reduce some symptoms associated with ASD, such as irritability, aggression, self-injury, and anxiety. For example, a 2019 open-label study published in Scientific Reports followed 188 children with ASD treated with CBD-rich cannabis oil and observed improvements in behavioral outbreaks, communication problems, and anxiety. However, the study lacked a placebo control and had a relatively short follow-up period.

The proposed mechanisms involve modulation of the endocannabinoid system, which may play a role in neurodevelopment and behavioral regulation. Animal studies and limited human research indicate that cannabinoids can influence neurotransmitter systems implicated in ASD, such as GABA and glutamate. Nevertheless, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are scarce. The largest RCT to date, published in 2021 in the journal Molecular Autism, found that CBD-rich cannabis was well tolerated but did not show statistically significant improvements in core ASD symptoms compared to placebo.

In summary, while there is preliminary scientific interest and some low-quality clinical evidence supporting the use of phytocannabinoids in autism, robust scientific validation is lacking. Larger, well-designed RCTs are needed to determine efficacy and safety. The current evidence base justifies a moderate level of scientific interest (rated 2), but routine use is not yet supported by strong scientific consensus.

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