Brazilian Study Reveals Effectiveness of Cannabis in Treating Autism
Researchers from the University of Brasília found significant improvements in communication skills, attention, learning, and quality of life for participants.
A study conducted by researchers from the University of Brasília (UNB) revealed that the use of broad-spectrum cannabis oil can alleviate symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The research was led by pediatric neurologist Jeanne Mazza, with the participation of professors Fábio Caixeta, Renato Malcher, and Lisiane Seguti, who investigated the benefits of medicinal cannabis extract to improve the quality of life of volunteers. Thirty volunteers, patients from the University Hospital of Brasília, aged 5 to 18 years, reported with autism at levels 2 or 3 of support. The results indicated significant improvements in communication skills, attention, learning, and quality of life for the participants.
The patients underwent neuropsychological evaluations and answered adaptive questionnaires before and after treatment, conducted by neuropsychologist Doris Beserra. Over six months, the volunteers received daily doses of cannabis extract containing a 33:1 ratio of cannabidiol (CBD) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), with clinical evaluations complemented by interviews with parents or caregivers.
Professor Fábio Caixeta highlighted, in an interview with UNB Ciência, the improvements observed in various aspects of the patients' health, such as personal interaction, communication, mood, cognition, motor skills, sleep, eye contact, and quality of life. “There were cases where children who were previously non-verbal or had symptoms of sedation and lethargy made remarkable progress,” said Caixeta. He added that it was exciting to observe the positive impact on the children's lives.
Parents also optimistically mentioned the possibility of continuing treatment, highlighting notable improvements. Although some patients experienced mild side effects, such as irritability and digestive issues, these symptoms were resolved with dosage adjustments.
The authors conclude that cannabis oil with a 33:1 ratio of CBD to THC is a safe and effective option for treating the core and combined symptoms associated with ASD, improving social interaction, communication, and quality of life. "This study demonstrated that the benefits of treatment with full-spectrum CBD oil for non-syndromic individuals with ASD are not only clinically evident but are also perceived and experienced by families and caregivers," the researchers concluded.