The Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program (OMMCP) announced its inclusion of Autism Spectrum Disorder as a qualifying, debilitating medical condition that qualifies an Ohioan 18 years or older to use Medical Marijuana products legally last September 8, 2017. The following information below is a plan to clarify the application of medical marijuana in treating the core symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder ASD.
Rules and Regulations
Medical marijuana is legal in Ohio, but only for specific conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Thus, if you are interested in using medical marijuana for Autism, before purchasing it, here are the rules and regulations that you need to follow:
Proven Medical Benefits of Medical Marijuana in Autism
Medical marijuana is effective in treating many of the symptoms associated with Autism. These include:
Reduced Aggression
According to Spectrum, a recent trial of medical marijuana for children with autism has found that cannabinoids, including Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), reduce aggressive outbursts. In addition, these compounds are safe and help autistic children and adolescents improve their quality of life.
The participants showed fewer rage attacks and were less likely to take other medications. In addition, the parents undergo training to use oral CBD oil to help their child with autism needs. Another study, conducted in New Zealand, evaluated the effects of marijuana on children with autism. The study showed improvement in symptoms, including self-injury and somnolence.
This type of medical marijuana is often infused into foods or consumed directly and has shown promise in treating insomnia linked with irritability.
Improved Social Skills
One of the most typical questions parents have about the Ohio medical marijuanas card online also the medical marijuana for Autism is whether it can help a child with ASD communicate more effectively. In addition to its potential as an alternative treatment, medical marijuana has other benefits, including improved appetite and weight gain.
The Association for Science in Autism Treatment has a new study that suggests that medical marijuana for Autism may help with these goals. Specifically, this treatment may improve communication skills and improve children’s moods.
Improved Communication Skills
Patients may benefit from the effects of medical marijuana by relaxing and focusing on what they’re doing. This therapy is also effective for many autistic symptoms, including the following:
Many patients who use marijuana daily report improvements in repetitive behaviors, language, social interactions, and other areas.
More Focused Attention on Tasks
The core phenotypes of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are impaired social functioning. These symptoms can result in low academic achievement, poor social skills, and even self-injurious behavior.
Children with ASD often display poor academic and occupational outcomes and low employment and income rates. In addition, standard treatments for ASD and other disruptive behaviors fail to improve the symptoms of up to 40% of children with ASD and related disorders.
In addition, they cause the caregivers significant distress. Consequently, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) reviewed the current evidence for the association between cannabis use and increased concentration and improved social functioning.
Summary
Medicinal cannabis is helping Ohio children live with autism. So why isn’t it available to the rest of the patients? As we can all figure out, medical marijuana alone cannot fix autism, but it will ease some symptoms to get the quality of life these children need.
About The Author
As a medical journalist, Katherine Hallow wrote countless articles, guidelines, and news covering the healthcare system, the opioid crisis, advancements in the medical field, and more. In the past years, she focused on the research and developments surrounding medical marijuana, tackling the subject from multiple perspectives, including legislation, certifications, patients’ rights, etc. Katherine wants to educate and inspire healthcare professionals and people in finding alternative health solutions.