Use of Cannabis as an alternative treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v8i18.1779Keywords:
Anxiety, Cannabidiol, Cannabis, Autism Spectrum DisorderAbstract
Given the complexity of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), multidisciplinary treatments are essential, with recent emphasis on the therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD), derived from Cannabis. This study aims to review the literature on the use of Cannabis as an alternative treatment for ASD, seeking to provide robust data for clinical practice. An integrative literature review was conducted in the SciELO, PubMed, and LILACS databases, using the English descriptors “Autism Spectrum Disorder,” “Cannabidiol,” “Cannabis,” and “Treatment.” Inclusion criteria included full-text studies published since 2018, available for free in Portuguese or English, while comments, editorials, articles published before 2018, and paid articles were excluded. The data analysis involved a full reading of the selected articles, the creation of a synthesis matrix, and the organization of information regarding the form of Cannabis use, doses, and effects from 16 articles. The reviewed studies suggest that the use of Cannabis extracts, especially those with high concentrations of cannabidiol (CBD), represents a promising approach for managing behavioral and social symptoms associated with ASD. CBD has shown effectiveness in reducing symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and repetitive behaviors, as well as improving social interaction and communication in individuals with ASD. These results indicate that Cannabis compounds may offer a complementary therapeutic alternative to conventional approaches, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms of action, optimize dosages, and assess long-term effects, thus ensuring greater safety and efficacy in the use of these extracts in the clinical context of ASD.
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