Is the use of cannabis beneficial for ADHD?

ADHD, short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause various symptoms in affected individuals. For a long time, it was believed that ADHD only occurred in children, but this theory has been debunked, and it's now clear that adults can also suffer from ADHD. While there are effective medications available to help ADHD patients manage the condition and its effects, these medications often come with severe side effects. So, is the use of medical cannabis for ADHD even possible and worthwhile?

Understanding the impact of ADHD

Individuals with ADHD often struggle to fit into our controlled and structured society, as well as the professional working environment. They often possess above-average intelligence, allowing them to think in complex ways, but this also means they can be overwhelmed by simple tasks. Additionally, ADHD patients can be impulsive, hyperactive, and have difficulties concentrating or focusing. They tend to talk excessively and loudly and exhibit impulsive behavior in their thoughts and actions. They have a strong sense of justice, advocating for unfairly treated individuals and leading with innovative ideas and courage.

Not all individuals with ADHD experience the same symptoms, as they vary greatly on an individual basis. The exact causes of ADHD are still unknown, but it is believed that genetic, environmental, and neurological factors play a role. It is a fact that individuals with ADHD have a predisposition to the condition, but not everyone with this predisposition will develop the disorder.

What leads to these symptoms?

People with ADHD have a deficiency in neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which play a role in facilitating smooth communication between nerve endings, allowing information and stimuli to be transmitted throughout the body. When this flow of signals is disrupted, it results in the condition known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Furthermore, at certain times of the day, individuals with ADHD have exceptionally high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to an extreme imbalance between stress hormones and happiness hormones.

But how can cannabis be helpful in managing ADHD symptoms?

The endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in regulating brain functions and controlling impulses. It consists of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes responsible for the synthesis and breakdown of endocannabinoids. Activating the ECS can have an impact on various areas of the brain, including attention and concentration.

The cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, known as phytocannabinoids, such as THC, CBD, CBN, etc., can bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS, similar to how the body's own cannabinoids do, influencing various processes in the body. As a result, they have calming and anxiety-reducing effects and enhance the ability to concentrate.

Cannabis and ADHD

Some studies have shown that cannabis can have a positive effect on ADHD symptoms. One theory suggests that cannabis increases dopamine release in the brain, leading to improved attention and concentration and potentially balancing the aforementioned imbalance. It is also believed that cannabis can reduce the body's stress response and have a calming effect, which can be beneficial for individuals with ADHD.

A case study demonstrated that patients with ADHD who were treated with medical cannabis reported a decrease in hyperactivity and impulsivity, as well as an improvement in attention and concentration. It is important to note that further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of cannabis in treating ADHD and to examine the risks and side effects.

Medical Cannabis in Germany

In Germany, the use of medical cannabis is possible for ADHD patients if conventional treatments have been insufficiently effective or not well tolerated. However, the use of medical cannabis for ADHD is controversial, as there is still no clear study of its effectiveness and safety. It is also important to note that the use of cannabis in medicine is regulated differently at the local level, and patients should always seek advice from a qualified physician before using medical cannabis.

Author: Mila Grün for Weed!