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

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Synopsis

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

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. Its use for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is justified by emerging scientific interest, though robust evidence is limited. A small number of preliminary clinical studies and case series have explored CBD’s effects on core and associated symptoms of ASD, such as irritability, aggression, anxiety, and hyperactivity. For example, a 2019 study in Scientific Reports (Aran et al.) followed 60 children with ASD treated with CBD-rich cannabis oil and reported some improvements in behavior and communication, though the study lacked a control group and relied on parental reporting. Other small, open-label studies and case reports have shown similar trends, suggesting that CBD might help reduce problematic behaviors in some individuals with ASD, especially when conventional treatments have failed or caused unacceptable side effects.

However, there are currently no large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials confirming the efficacy or safety of CBD for core ASD symptoms. Most available data are anecdotal or come from studies with significant methodological limitations. The proposed mechanisms involve CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which may influence neurotransmitter systems involved in mood and behavior. Regulatory agencies, including the FDA, have not approved CBD for ASD, and guidelines from major autism organizations remain cautious, urging more research. Therefore, while scientific interest exists and preliminary signals are promising, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to fully validate CBD’s use in autism spectrum disorder at this time.

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