Autism and Marijuana Treatment Options
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder characterized by challenges with speech, social skills, nonverbal communication, and repetitive behavior. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that autism presently affects about 2.21% of adults and 1 in 44 children in the United States. There are many different types of treatments to help with the symptoms of autism including therapy, medication, and even medical marijuana.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Since autism falls on a spectrum, every person has their own unique set of strengths and weaknesses. ASD can be a minor problem or a disability that requires full-time care to accomplish basic tasks such as communicating. In addition, the way people with autism think, learn, and problem solve is also different from most people and can fall on a spectrum from highly skilled to severely challenged. One common symptom among people with ASD is having trouble understanding how other people think and feel. This makes them unable to interpret social cues or express themselves properly in certain situations.
Early signs of autism are usually detected around 2 to 3 years of age. While the development of autism is still unknown, medical experts believe that it can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. ASD is also often accompanied by other disorders and medical issues such as seizures, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Marijuana and Its Effects on Autism
Accompanying anecdotal evidence, scientific studies have also reasoned the positive efficacy of medical marijuana for autism. In 2018 Stanford University conducted a study that found significantly lower levels of anandamide concentration in children with ASD as compared to control groups. Other research studies have suggested that anandamide produces similar effects to those produced by THC, though less intense. Researchers have theorized this to be the reason for THC’s therapeutic potential in treating autism.
Furthermore, there is a lot of scientific evidence that suggests cannabis is great to relieve anxiety which is a common symptom among children with autism. For the following reasons, doctors have started to turn to marijuana treatments to ease the symptoms of ASD. A 2019 clinical trial found that medical marijuana can help kids with autism reduce their disruptive behavior, improve their social responsiveness, and much more. As further research is done, more people have started to consider marijuana as a possible supplemental treatment option for autism.
Why Choose Ozark MMJ Cards?
At Ozark MMJ Cards, our doctor consultants are all highly experienced in the fields of autism, medical cannabis, and treating various other behavioral disorders. If you live in the state of Missouri and your child has ASD, they are eligible for a medical marijuana card and corresponding treatments. Start this process with us and our doctors will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s medical history before certifying them and educating you on the treatment options out there. To learn more about autism and marijuana treatments contact us today!