Researchers from the Center for Medical Cannabis Research at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have found that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, may help reduce problem behaviors in autistic boys. The findings offer valuable insights into the potential benefits and limitations of CBD as a therapeutic intervention for autism.
Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. In more severe cases, these behaviors can also include self-injury or aggression. While existing treatments can help alleviate these symptoms, there is an urgent need for effective and safe interventions to address the diverse needs of autistic individuals.
Some previous studies suggested that CBD might help reduce problem behaviors in children with autism. However, to date, there have been no controlled clinical studies addressing the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of this treatment approach.
In the study, autistic boys aged 7 to 14 with severe behavioral problems were divided into two groups. One group received CBD daily for eight weeks, followed by a placebo for eight weeks. A four-week washout period with no treatment followed in between. The other group first received a placebo and then CBD. Behavioral assessments were conducted before and after each treatment phase. A total of 30 participants completed the study.
The researchers found:
- CBD was safe and well-tolerated in boys with severe autism and behavioral problems—participants were able to take the medication without issues, and no serious side effects occurred.
- While no significant differences were found between CBD and placebo on general behavior measures, clinicians' impressions suggested that about two-thirds of participants showed signs of clinical improvement with CBD.
- Most commonly, doctors observed a reduction in aggressive behavior and hyperactivity, and nearly 30% of participants showed improvement in communication.
- While both groups showed improvements during the study, suggesting a strong placebo effect, the CBD group generally showed greater improvements than the placebo group.
The study's findings suggest that while CBD may offer some benefits in reducing problematic behavior in autistic children, its efficacy is not universally recognized, and further research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic potential. The study's results also underscore the importance of rigorous, controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of novel autism treatments.
The study, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, was led by renowned professors Doris Trauner, MD, in the departments of Neuroscience and Pediatrics, and Igor Grant, MD, in the department of Psychiatry at UC San Diego School of Medicine.
