Autism spectrum disorders are complex neurodevelopmental syndromes, marked by impaired social interaction, delayed speech, repetitive or stereotypical behaviours and poor eye contact.\u00a0\u00a0These symptoms are often accompanied by conditions like seizures, sleep problems, gastro-intestinal disorders, etc., which cause significant developmental, social and cognitive impacts on individuals with Autism. So, what role does medical Marijuana play in treating a complex disorder like Autism?<\/p>\n
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Epidiolex, a compound derived from marijuana, has been approved by the United States to alleviate and treat Autism traits. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had earlier sanctioned the use of marijuana\u2019s psychoactive ingredient, THC, for treating various conditions like epilepsy and autism. In a press conference, Scott Gottlieb, FDA commissioner, proclaimed Epidiolex\u2019s approval as \u201cadvancing this type of important and conscientious work.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Orrin Devinsky, (MD, Professor of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry and Director\u00a0of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at NYU Langone Medical Center), who led clinical trials of the new drug, reported a reduction in seizure frequency.\u00a0 He said, \u201cThe approval of Epidiolex has changed the regulatory landscape for cannabinoid products. This will make future trials much easier and less expensive.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Confirmation from parents of\u00a0children with autism\u00a0stated that cannabis did bring improvement in their symptoms. But according to Dr. Orrin Devinsky, the evidence is needed to make sure if cannabis is safe for treating autism spectrum disorder. He advised the parents not to give cannabis or any cannabis-related compounds to the kids without consulting a qualified physician. He is presently involved in the upcoming clinical trials of marijuana.<\/p>\n
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Three trials are scheduled to be conducted in the US. The aim is to check whether cannabinoids will alleviate nervousness or aggression in patients with autism.<\/p>\n
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These trials have raised big questions about marijuana-derived compounds and the prescribed dosage needed for the best result. Xavier Castellanos, a professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at New York University, who will lead the anxiety trial, said, \u201cI would be surprised if it doesn\u2019t help some kids,\u201d he further stated, \u201cThe question is: Who? How much? And is there a right dose? There\u2019s a lot of stuff to be learned.\u201d<\/p>\n
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