What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
ADHD is a chronic neurodevelopmental syndrome that affects children and adults and is characterized by persistent inattentiveness, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity.
Symptoms Of ADHD
Restlessness, mind wandering, emotional instability, and an inability to relax or concentrate are some of the typical symptoms of ADHD. Also, Lower levels of employment and lower educational attainment are significant consequences.
Causes Of ADHD:
The available data indicates that ADHD is a genetic disorder. It is a biological condition that is all brain-based. Children with ADHD have low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is a brain chemical. PET scans (positron emission tomography) brain imaging studies demonstrate that the areas of the brain that regulate attention, social judgment, and mobility are less metabolically active in children with ADHD.
SIDE NOTE
Before we get into the use of Cannabis for the treatment of ADHD, we wanted to let you know about our top-rated grinder provided to you by “Good Times Only”. If you want to get the fullest benefits of cannabis, you will need to buy it fresh and grind it freshly before use.
Our staff, along with consultants Jeff and Oscar, performed a study that stretched for many weeks to determine the best herb grinder on the market. After sifting through thousands of grinders, we narrowed them down, concluded, and tested the top 12 herb grinders on the market. We chose, what we considered to be, the best weed grinders based on reviews and sales on Amazon and other head sites to confirm the legitimacy of the products. Before getting into all the good info, we wanted to point out our favorite 4 piece grinder.
$24.99
Now, let’s get into the use of cannabis for the treatment of ADHD
Treatment of ADHD
Treatment options include
- Psychostimulant drugs (to balance brain chemicals, aid in “stimulating” the brain to focus, and reduce the primary symptoms of ADHD)
- psychological therapies, and psychological interventions (Training in behavior management skills for parents and teachers)
However, these are not always efficient and well tolerated (Bolea-Alamaac et al., 2014). The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatments for ADHD now carry warnings that their use may carry risks of cardiovascular effects, growth suppression, and the development of
psychosis or other psychiatric conditions because more severe adverse effects have occasionally been reported (FDA, 2006).
Cannabis in ADHD disorder
It is now possible to use this knowledge in clinical studies for ADHD because numerous phytocannabinoids and terpenoids have been found and quantified. Additionally, cannabinoids are thought to have hypnotic, neuroprotective, antidepressant, and antipsychotic properties. Single-case studies of individuals who received their treatment demonstrate that cannabinoids decreased hyperactivity, enhanced focus, and improved impulsive behavior.
Medical cannabis (MC) is becoming more widely recognized as a potential alternative treatment for adult ADHD (Mitchell et al., 2016). According to one case study, treatment with MC significantly decreased the symptoms of ADHD. (Mattern, Skopp, and Strohbeck-Kuehner 2008).
ADHD patients who use cannabis report feeling calmer, less restless, and getting better sleep; some say it helps them remain focused (Asherson, personal communication; Milz & Grotenhermen, 2015). A significant proportion of the 51,000 patients in Israel who are currently approved for MC treatment had ADHD as comorbidity.
Terpenoids and the ADHD condition
A cannabis strain known as Sunset Sherbet is thought to provide users with a dose of beta-caryophyllene. It is the terpene that is frequently found in black pepper. This terpene’s sharp characteristics are believed to improve focus and create a relaxed, calm state of mind. Early laboratory studies revealed that beta-caryophyllene possesses immune-modulating and anti-anxiety properties, which may help reduce some of the significant side effects of ADHD.
Another terpene that is good for focusing, elevating mood, and relaxing is linalool. Linalool works as a central nervous system depressant, which can relax a hyperactive nervous system.
History
Despite the dramatic increase in ADHD diagnoses during the previous 20 years, the neurological disorder is still not fully understood, and cannabis use was not seen favorably.
Recently, researchers have started looking into cannabis as a potential medication rather than comorbidity.
In addition, Ethan Russo highlighted this already 15 years ago, who noted that “in his practice of child and adult neurology, has heard hundreds of unsolicited testimonials on the benefits of cannabis in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).” He added that “although utilizing cannabis-based medicines for this indication appears surprising to most experts, controlled studies of cannabis medicines for ADHD seem indicated, particularly in the context of the controversy and adverse effects of the available psychotropic medications.
Mechanism of Action
According to genetic research, ADHD and the cannabinoid receptor gene are linked. Insufficient dopamine and serotonin result from reduced endocannabinoid levels in 2021 study participants with ADHD. For those with ADHD, completing tasks they know they need to do, is very difficult due to a lack of dopamine production. Cannabis use is one method of boosting cannabinoid levels because of the complex link between the endocannabinoid system and dopamine biosynthesis.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), composed of cannabinoid receptors (such as CB1 and CB2), has been demonstrated to interact with the central nervous system and the neuroimmune system as the endocannabinoid anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. The dopaminergic system has traditionally been linked to the pathology of ADHD.
According to (Bossong et al., 2015; Voruganti et al.,2002), cannabinoids increase dopaminergic
transmission, which is regarded as the primary mechanism by which stimulants reduce the symptoms of ADHD and boost cognitive function (Leonard et al., 2004).
Possible pharmaceutical targets to reduce hyperimpulsivity and distractibility include cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors, which interact with the dopaminergic system.
Exocannabinoids, like Δ9-THC, have the potential to be used as pharmaceutical therapies because it has been shown that they cause dopamine release in the human striatum. The medial prefrontal cortex and the ventral tegmental area have been proposed as the brain areas where the modification of endocannabinoids might result in action restraint and the regulation of impulsive action.
More precisely, it has been proposed that CBD raises anandamide (AEA) levels via binding to particular proteins and preventing them from carrying or degrading AEA.
Modulation of endocannabinoid signaling through the dopaminergic system is a promising target for pharmacological interventions, not only for the treatment of ADHD but also for the treatment of other neuropsychiatric disorders like Tourette syndrome tics, fears, and anxiety, as well as for the improvement of synaptic plasticity for psychological development.
Scientific Evidence
- In 2008, a comprehensive medical case report was published in Germany that described the therapeutic advantages of cannabinoids, particularly Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (9-THC), for an adult male ADHD patient who had previously received ineffective methylphenidate treatment. Medical cannabis was found to be beneficial for several symptoms, including improved concentration and sleep as well as decreased impulsivity, in a more extensive series of clinical cases also done in Germany with 30 treatment-resistant adults with ADHD. According to the researchers, cannabis “is an effective and well-tolerated alternative for adult individuals with ADHD who have side effects or do not benefit from standard medication.”
- According to (Hupli, 2018), the patient experienced relief from his ADHD symptoms after using marijuana, which also helped to increase focus, impulse control, and better emotional control while reducing hyperactivity. The combination of the moderate-dronabinol/high-CBD product Bediol and the high-dronabinol product Bedrocan (balanced ratio of THC 6.3% and CBD 8%) gave the patient additional medical benefits and improved his overall health. Additionally, Russo and Guy (Russo & Guy, 2006) concluded that “the data herein presented substantially support the therapeutic rationale for combining THC and CBD for therapeutic usage.”
- In their study, (Loflin et al., 2014) proposed that “cannabis might compensate for low frontal alpha relative and absolute power, which perhaps underlies hyperactive symptoms.” Cannabinoids may be more successful in treating hyperactive-impulsive ADHD subtypes than inattentive ADHD.
- In contrast to other nations’ producers, Scandinavian cultivators use cannabis more frequently to treat ADHD (Hupli, 2018).
- The most frequent medical reason given by users in a qualitative interview study of 100 (illegal) cannabis users in Norway was to reduce the symptoms of ADHD.
- A 2017 study discovered “nominally significant” improvements in hyperactivity and inattention with Sativex, a THC-dominant nasal spray. According to the authors, the study “provides early data supporting the self-medication notion of cannabis usage in ADHD.”(Ajmal, Khan, and Shaikh, 2019).
Top Cannabis Strains for ADHD Treatment
There are variations among cannabis strains. There is not just one “good strain” for ADHD; it depends on the suitable terpenes, cannabinoids, and personal preferences. The following cannabis varieties can help lessen ADHD-related symptoms:
Jack Herer
One of the most well-known Sativa strains is Jack Herer. The terpenes alpha and beta-pinene, which were energizing and focused, are abundant in this high-THC plant. Terpene aroma molecules give Jack Herer a peppery, pine-like scent, as their names might imply. These specific terpenes are believed to have effects that enhance concentration and mental clarity. Early laboratory studies have revealed that pinene inhibits the brain’s cholinergic neurotransmitter from degrading. Memory, attention, and learning are all controlled by this neurotransmitter and dopamine. Cannabis strains with a high pinene content might be more beneficial for people with ADHD than strains with more substantial sedative properties.
If you want to know more about this strain visit our post on it – Jack Herer Strain
Harle-Tsu
This cannabis strain has 10.5% or more CBD. A hybrid cross between Harlequin and Sour Tsunami is called Harle-Tsu. Additionally, the CBD level is 20 times greater than the THC content. Myrcene, terpinolene, and pinene are its primary terpenes. Harle-Tsu is an excellent strain for relaxation.
The Green Crack
This cannabis strain is well-known for boosting energy. Stress, a prevalent symptom in those with ADD/ADHD, can be combated with Green Crack. Myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene are their primary terpenes. The THC content in Green Crack is high (17%).
Alien Strawberry Fire
The ability of this strain to reduce tension and promote relaxation makes it the perfect choice. The THC content in Fire Alien Strawberry is high (21%). Terpinolene, myrcene, and pinene are its primary terpenes. Enhancing sociability and attention are typical impacts. It is frequently used to treat many issues like insomnia, anxiety, and depression. It is perfect for all users of every level of experience. It is ideal for ADHD because of its boosting properties.
Jack Black
A Black Domina and Jack Herer hybrid produced the high THC (18%) cannabis strain known as Black Jack. It is widely used for medical purposes. Consumers will experience calm, pleasure, and uplifted. Black Jack is, therefore, particularly successful in treating typical ADD and ADHD side effects. Terpinolene, ocimene, and caryophyllene are its primary terpenes.
Terpinolene, ocimene, and caryophyllene are its primary terpenes.
Zkittlez
Flavors: (Grape, strawberry).
Effects: (Calm, euphoria, focus) and Cannabinoid composition (14% THC | 1% CBD). Experts recommend taking a minimal dose of Zkittlez and observing how patients feel when trying to finish tasks. Once more, high-THC strains are typically better for concentrating on creative rather than administrative work.
If you would like to find out more about all the major popular strains, check out our post – Weed Strains
Tips and tricks for picking out cannabis strains for ADHD:
When choosing strains, there are a few things to remember when looking for high-quality cannabis for ADHD. These consist of:
Keep Myrcene Concentrations Low
A drowsy terpene called myrcene is present in many Indica cannabis strains. This plant is best kept for when patients are trying to relax because of its musky aroma and hypnotic effect. These flowers could interfere with focus and create instability.
Avoid Cannabinol (CBN)
Similarly, cannabinol (CBN)-rich samples may encourage sleepiness rather than alertness.
As cannabis strains age, their levels of CBN, a breakdown product of THC, increase.
Try CBD
It is anticipated that CBD will improve mood management as it is non-intoxicating. If high THC strains are an issue, switching to a high CBD strain or a plant with an equal THC: CBD ratio might be more advantageous.
Consider Using Micro-Dosing
If they overdose, patients will experience the reverse of what they were hoping for. Take only a few milligrams of THC or one puff every few hours. Although it appears paradoxical, this tactic might help focus better.
Conclusion For Cannabis For The Treatment Of ADHD
Despite not being prescribed explicitly for ADHD, medicinal cannabis (MC) was discovered to have benefits that decreased the frequency of ADHD symptoms and lessened the requirement for ADHD medications.
Numerous evidence-based studies show that cannabis therapies (TH) combined with other types of psychotherapy can be a safe and effective treatment for people with ADHD whose symptoms are not controlled by prescription stimulants like methylphenidate and who experience adverse side effects from other pharmaceutical therapies.
Cannabinoid Therapeutics have reportedly been shown to improve a number of medical disorders. Cannabinoids have been used to treat human illnesses worldwide, even though the “evidence” is not always based on the gold standard of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials. This fact should encourage both patients and medical professionals to consider this option. However, this field of study is still developing.
Thank you for reading about the use of Cannabis for the treatment of ADHD. We have many more articles that explain how cannabis can help with many illnesses written by medical doctors. Check those out in our blog section.
Our Top Rated Grinder
If you want to get the fullest health benefits of cannabis, you will need to buy it fresh and grind it freshly before use. We recently tested hundreds of grinders and found that the “Good Times Only” grinder is by far the most superior. You can buy it below.
$24.99
