High Hopes or High Risks? The Marijuana and ADHD Debate Unveiled
THC, Cannabis and Regulating Attention
Does Cannabis Effectively Treat ADHD Symptoms?
As mentioned above, the perception that marijuana is therapeutic for ADHD is growing in popularity. For example, a 2016 qualitative analysis of online discussions around cannabis use and ADHD confirmed this trend, finding that overall online discussions indicated that cannabis is considered therapeutic for ADHD.8
In addition, a 2020 study on adults with ADHD who took medical cannabis found that those who took a higher dose of medical cannabis components, like CBD, reduced their ADHD medication intake.9 However, this study was very small; therefore, its results can’t be seen as generalizable to the entire population.
Still, while this view may be gaining in popularity over the internet, there is little clinical support for these claims. For example, a 2013 study found that people with ADHD who used cannabis performed worse on memory, verbal, cognitive, decision-making, and response tests than those who didn’t use the drug.10 In addition, a 2019 medical review of 83 studies on the matter found that there was insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of cannabis in treating mental health conditions, including ADHD.11
So, where does this leave us?
According to Dr. Rebecca Siegel, a licensed psychiatrist, cannabis medical advisor, and author of "The Brain on Cannabis: What You Should Know About Recreational and Medical Marijuana," caution is recommended.
“I have heard from people above the age of 21 that it can help with focus and limit distractions, but I still wouldn’t recommend it as a first-line treatment option,” she says.
She advises people to follow traditional ADHD treatment options until more clinical trials have been conducted on the issue. “Until then, I cannot draw any conclusions on the optimal ratio of CBD: THC,” she finishes.
Can Using Cannabis Make My ADHD Worse?
Exploring the Potential Impact of Cannabis on ADHD Symptoms
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide, making it difficult to concentrate, stay organized, and control impulsive behavior. As researchers continue to study the complexities of ADHD, there is growing curiosity surrounding the potential impact of cannabis use on this condition. In this blog post, we will delve into the question: Can using cannabis make my ADHD worse?
Understanding ADHD and Cannabis
Before we explore the relationship between cannabis and ADHD, it is essential to establish a basic understanding of both. ADHD is typically characterized by symptoms such as inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. On the other hand, cannabis refers to a group of psychoactive substances derived from the cannabis plant, including marijuana and its various components.
Mixed Findings and Inconclusive Evidence
When it comes to determining the effects of cannabis on ADHD symptoms, scientific research has yielded mixed results, leaving many unanswered questions. Current studies neither provide a definitive answer nor rule out the possibility of cannabis exacerbating ADHD symptoms. Therefore, it is vital to approach this topic with caution and continue supporting ongoing research efforts.
Potential Benefits
Although the research is limited, some individuals with ADHD claim that cannabis use has had a positive impact on their symptoms. They believe that cannabis can help improve focus, attention span, and reduce hyperactivity levels. However, it is crucial to consider individual variations in response and potential risks before drawing broad conclusions.
Potential Harms and Risks
In contrast to the potential benefits, there are concerns that cannabis use may worsen ADHD symptoms in certain individuals. Some individuals report increased anxiety, impaired cognitive function, and decreased motivation after using cannabis. Additionally, long-term cannabis use has been associated with memory problems and potential addiction risks, further complicating its relationship with ADHD.
Additional Considerations
When contemplating the use of cannabis for ADHD symptom management, it is important to consider the following factors:
1. Individual Variations: Each person's response to cannabis may differ, and what works for one individual may not work for another.
2. Quality and Dosage Control: The concentration of active compounds in cannabis products can vary significantly. Seek products from reputable sources with clear labeling and consider consulting a healthcare professional for guidance on dosage.
3. Legal and Social Implications: Cannabis laws regarding medical and recreational use vary across different regions. It is essential to be aware of the legal and social implications of cannabis use in your specific area.
Seek Professional Guidance
Cannabis works by activating the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine at higher levels than usual. People with ADHD tend to have low levels of dopamine, which is why THC can feel so rewarding.
So, while using cannabis may make you feel better in the short term, it could lead to CUD and cannabis dependency. Therefore, it is best to stay away from cannabis (or THC products) to be safe, particularly if you are susceptible to substance abuse.
Given the complexity of ADHD and the inconclusive research on cannabis, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before considering cannabis as a means to manage ADHD symptoms. Our providers at Erie Psychiatry can provide personalized advice, taking into account your medical history, specific needs, and available treatment options.
Conclusion
While the question "Can using cannabis make my ADHD worse?" lacks a definitive answer, continued research is necessary to understand the potential impact of cannabis on ADHD symptoms fully. As an individual with ADHD, it is crucial to prioritize evidence-based treatments and seek guidance from healthcare professionals who specialize in the management of this condition.
Risks of Using Cannabis to Treat ADHD Symptoms:
It has been estimated that around 30% of people who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder.13
In addition, those with ADHD have been found to use cannabis two to three times more than adults without ADHD.14 Therefore, the risks of using the drug can disproportionately affect those with ADHD.
For example, cannabis use disorder (CUD) — a diagnosis given to those with a problematic pattern of cannabis use linked to clinically significant impairment — is twice as likely to occur in those with ADHD.14 But why?
“Cannabis use for [the] treatment of ADHD symptoms can evolve into CUD if you stray from your initial intention of using cannabis to treat your ADHD symptoms and start to consume it more frequently for unrelated reasons,” says Dr. Siegel.
She states that this is likely due to frequent use evolving into a routine, which can lead to dependence. “Potentially, you may no longer see improvement in your ADHD symptoms if you are consuming it all day long,” she warns, which can lead to people using more cannabis to compensate. Or even an exacerbation of ADHD symptoms.
Can I Use Cannabis Instead of ADHD Medication?
Switching your ADHD treatment away from medication to cannabis is strongly unadvised.
This is because cannabis has not been researched extensively enough to be considered a safe and effective treatment option for ADHD.
However, should you be considering it, it is very important to reach out to your healthcare provider about your thoughts and concerns. Finding a healthcare provider with knowledge on the benefits and risks of using cannabis instead of ADHD medication could be very beneficial to your overall treatment plans.
Bottom Line
Here at Erie Psychiatry, we have found that cannabis exacerbates ADHD symptoms, if used on a regular or semi-routine basis, for kids, teens and adults alike. With more than 40 years of combined education and practice, we’ve seen that cannabis negatively effects our ability to remain attentive, regulate and sustain focus, decreases our ability to concentrate, and lowers our motivation and drive. All the symptoms that we aim to improve with the use of several evidence-based treatment interventions with ADHD.
For more information and questions left unanswered, we’re here to help! All the providers at Erie Psychiatry are well versed in how cannabis can affect your overall physical and mental health, and especially with how cannabis/THC can impact your treatment plan.
Sources:
Original Source: https://www.verywellmind.com/weed-and-adhd-what-the-research-says-5443195
By Zuva Seven Updated on December 19, 2022; Medically reviewed by John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE
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