Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Medical Marijuana (Cannabis)
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Medical Marijuana (Cannabis)
Summary: Attention Deficit Disorder, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is a biological, brain based condition that is characterized by poor attention and distractibility and/or hyperactive and impulsive behaviors.
It is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children affecting around 3-5% of children and around 1% of adults in the US. If left untreated, ADHD can lead to poor school/work performance, poor social relationships and a general feeling of low self esteem.
https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cannabis-and-addadhd
The usual treatment is with stimulant medications, such as Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, etc. These products slow down degradation of the neurotransmitter, Dopamine, in the brain. Dopamine regulates attention and executive function (like self-control, working memory and mental flexibility). However, these medications have been regularly abused and sometimes have bothersome side effects while taking them or withdrawal symptoms when stopping them suddenly. https://www.verywellmind.com/how-do-stimulants-for-adhd-work-20895
https://medicalmarijuana411.com/marijuana-replaces-ritalin-treatment-for-add-adhd/
Medical Marijuana (Cannabis) works via activation of the Endocannabinoid System. (https://boorasmd.com/education/articles/clinical-endocannabinoid-deficiency/).
THC activates CB1 receptors, which controls anxiety, inattentiveness, insomnia, depression and impulsivity. There is a preponderance of CB1 receptors in the brain.
CBD has no psychoactive properties and positively affects dopamine transmission. CBD also helps anxiety and stress while improving focus and attention span.
https://www.naturicious.com/cbd-101/add-adhd-and-cbd/
Cannabis is sometimes used as a self-treatment by individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Advocates for cannabis as an ADHD treatment say the drug can help people with the disorder handle some of the more severe symptoms. These include agitation, irritability, and lack of restraint. They also say that cannabis has fewer side effects than traditional ADHD medications.
https://www.healthline.com/health/marijuana-and-adhd#risks
There are concerns that use in younger years could alter brain development. For this reason, I prefer to hold off recommending cannabis until at least age 18!
Written by Dr. Charlie Booras, MD on 11/10/20
Updated on February 4, 2021
