Autism

Many children in Canada are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, with it being more common in boys. Signs most commonly appear between the ages of two to three but could also be spotted between six to 12 months old. Symptoms could range anywhere from:

• Not retaining eye contact
• Not responding to being called
• Having trouble expressing their joy
• Trouble forming words
• Getting upset by minor changes
• Repetitive behaviour like rocking, jumping or hand-flapping

Autism is a developmental disorder, and there are different types. Autism might include Asperger’s, pervasive developmental disorder and childhood disintegrative disorder. Adults and children with autism will have problems with communicating and face social and behavioural issues, so it is usually diagnosed early on.

Symptoms might range from mild to severe in each case, so the way they learn, think, and interact with others could determine how much support they’ll need or how many medical or mental challenges they’ll face. They could suffer from severe anxiety, depression, or frequent seizures, tics, or bursts of anger.

A study was done by researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Toronto of autism patients 18 and younger to see how efficient medical marijunana would be in treating more severe symptoms like seizures, tics, bursts of anger, poor sleeping patterns, or depression.

More than 80% of the patient’s parents noticed improvements. The patients were treated between 2015-2017 for six-month intervals and though not everyone experienced the same improvements, parents reported positive changes in the following:

• More of a positive mood
• Ability to dress and shower independently/perform daily activities
• Decreased restlessness
• Improved ability to concentrate
• Overall, most of the parents were able to report an improved quality of life.

There currently isn’t a lot of scientific research or data to support medical marijuana being an effective treatment for children with autism. Still, it’s certainly not an option that should be overlooked. It is, in fact, safe for children since it’s all-natural and could not only help with feelings of relaxation and improving sleep cycles, but it might also help with treating anxiety, irritation, and depression associated with bursts of anger.

Your child will not be smoking marijuana. Oils could be taken under the tongue, or even be used for cooking or baking.

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids and they affect our mind and body by activating cell receptors associated with anxiety, inflammation, pain, etc. Each patient will require a different dose and we’re more than happy to discuss options with you.

Side note: Eligibility is age 19 and up but our health care professionals are happy to answer any of your questions.