Here at Wyckoff Wellness Center, interventional psychiatrist Michael Gentile, MD, often fields questions about emerging therapies and what the science shows when it comes to cannabidiol (CBD) and medical marijuana for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
While early research is promising, this is not yet a one-size-fits-all treatment. Here’s a look at where we are right now and what we’re seeing in our practice.
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
Traditional treatments often focus on managing those associated symptoms, but no medication is currently FDA-approved for the core social communication features of autism.
The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors throughout the brain and body that regulates mood, stress, and neural signaling. It may function differently in people who have ASD.
Because CBD interacts with this system, it has become an area of clinical interest for Dr. Gentile and our team.
Recent studies are optimistic about the effect of medical marijuana and CBD on autism spectrum disorder. Here are some research highlights:
What’s more, a broad review of cannabis use in children with ASD revealed that between 61% and 93% of participants in observational studies experienced some benefit, and up to 80% reduced their use of other psychotropic medications.
The data above is encouraging, but consider these important caveats:
CBD and medical marijuana are not treatments for the core features of autism. Rather, they may help some associated symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, or sleep issues.
Although generally mild, reported adverse effects include sleep problems, restlessness, and appetite changes.
Many of the studies are small or observational. Even among controlled trials, there’s variability in dosage, preparation, and monitoring.
Experts emphasize that we need larger, long-term randomized controlled trials to better understand safety and efficacy.
If you're considering CBD and medical marijuana for autism, here’s how we at Wyckoff Wellness Center approach it within a broader mental health framework:
We would assess your or your child’s symptoms, history, and current medications, including interventions like psychiatric consultations, behavioral therapy, or nutritional and lifestyle support.
We believe in starting low and going slow. Titrating (gradually adding) CBD under medical supervision helps minimize your risk.
CBD should be viewed as complementary to proven interventions, not a substitute for them.
The research is encouraging, but still developing. Dr. Gentile educates you about how CBD and medical marijuana can be a tool in your autism care and helps you carefully weigh the benefits and risks.
If you’d like to explore whether CBD and medical marijuana might be appropriate for you or your loved one, reach out to our practice. We can walk through the data, talk through potential interactions, and tailor a therapeutic approach to help you reach your goals.
