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CBD and pancreatitis

CBD and pancreatitis

cannabinoids, CBD experiences, cbd for animals, Effect of CBD oil

Acute inflammation of the pancreas, i.e. pancreatitis, is a very unpleasant disease, which is typical among those who drink a lot of alcohol. In this article, we will get to know pancreatitis, the endocannabinoid system in the pancreas and the possible effect of CBD to support the treatment of pancreatitis.

 

Functions of the pancreas

 

The pancreas is a gland located in the digestive system, whose main tasks are the secretion of hormones and the secretion of digestive enzymes into the digestive tract.

The pancreas is located behind the stomach in the small intestine and is roughly pear-shaped. (1)

 

What is pancreatitis?

 

Pancreatitis is caused by pancreatic fluid that has leaked into the tissues due to too early activated digestive enzymes. It is easily detected through a urine or blood sample and is almost always a situation requiring hospital treatment. (1,2)

The most common cause of pancreatitis is alcohol. There are also other reasons for it, such as gallstones, but almost all cases are caused by long-term excessive alcohol use. Being overweight and smoking also increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. (1,2)

Pancreatitis affects approx. 5,000 Finns every year and 2-3% of them die from complications caused by it. (1,2)

 

Mild pancreatitis

 

Mild pancreatitis refers to pancreatitis occurring for the first time, which usually heals on its own within a few weeks. Even mild pancreatitis should be taken seriously, because it recurs very easily if the lifestyle that led to it is not changed. (1)

 

Chronic pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis refers to pancreatic failure resulting from heavy alcohol consumption, which is the result of repeated pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis also causes most of the time diabetes, as the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin decreases. (1)

Symptoms of pancreatitis

 

The symptom of pancreatitis is a belt-like, severe, abdominal pain that occurs in the upper abdomen and sometimes also radiates to the back. Symptoms also include nausea, vomiting and fever. Symptoms may worsen during the day and ease again at night. (1,2)

A man jogging on the beach at sunset.

Heavy alcohol consumption can be difficult to stop, but the positive health effects it brings are worth the effort.

 

Prevention

 

A healthy lifestyle is the only way to prevent pancreatitis, as it is caused by alcohol and gallstones. If the change in lifestyle is challenging for one reason or another, you should make some kind of plan for yourself, with the help of which, for example, you can monitor your own alcohol consumption and try to reduce it. If necessary, you should also ask for at least emotional support from loved ones, such as friends and family members.

Stress

 

Stress alone is not the cause of pancreatitis, so avoiding it is not really a way to prevent it. Stress in itself is hard on the body and it weakens e.g. resistance and optimal functioning of the body.

Effect of diet

 

In itself, the diet does not affect the development of pancreatitis, but it may even prevent it through detours. Pancreatitis caused by gallstones can be avoided by changing the lifestyle that causes gallstones. Gallstones are caused by e.g. overweight and overweight can be controlled with sufficient exercise and a healthy diet.

Avoiding certain foods during and after pancreatitis may make you feel better, because due to inflammation and recovery, some foods may not be digested properly. You should avoid high-fiber food, pay attention to the amount and quality of fat, and avoid foods that are generally difficult to digest, such as cabbage, beans, etc. reduce eating. You should monitor how you feel and reduce the foods that clearly cause symptoms. (3)

Alcohol

 

Alcohol is the biggest risk factor for pancreatitis and its moderate use is a prerequisite to avoid inflammation. Almost without exception, anyone who has consumed alcohol regularly and for a long time will experience at least mild pancreatitis. The strength of the alcohol has little to do with it, as pancreatitis can occur as a result of heavy consumption of both strong liquors and milder beers.

 

Care and home care

 

If the pancreatitis is caused by gallstones, the treatment is a quick operation that reopens the blocked bile duct.

The treatment of pancreatitis caused by alcohol is hydration and drug therapy, but the most important thing is to immediately stop or at least drastically reduce the use of alcohol, because pancreatitis recurs very easily. The more mild pancreatitis is behind, the more susceptible it becomes chronic and eventually causes failure, which is even a fatal disease. The pancreas may also become gangrenous, the removal of which requires surgery. (1,2)

The endocannabinoid system and the pancreas

 

Endocannabinoid system acting throughout the body monitors that all body processes are working properly. The system in question is found in all humans and almost all animal species, and its task is to act as the so-called as a back gate that guides the body’s functioning towards balance.

The endocannabinoid system consists of three parts; endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors and enzymes that break them down.

Among the body’s cannabinoid receptors, the CB1 receptor is mainly found in the brain and is responsible for e.g. from the release of various neurotransmitters. CB2 receptors are found in the pancreas and it has its own important functions there.

Endocannabinoids also affect the body through other receptors, and in functions related to the pancreas, it seems that the TRPV receptor family of receptors and GPR receptors are also involved in the functions. (4)

Of the endocannabinoids, both anandamide and 2-AGhas been observed in the pancreas. They seem to regulate e.g. insulin production. (4)

 

CBD oil and pancreatitis

 

According to some studies, cannabis use may contribute to acute pancreatitis, but CBDhas been found to have a mitigating effect on it. (5,6)

CBD does not necessarily cure or treat pancreatitis, but it may have an alleviating effect on the associated symptoms. CBD oil may have an anti-inflammatory effect and may relieve pain. CBD has been detected to increase appetite and relieve intestinal diseases, thus it may also ease symptoms related to eating. CBD also has potential anti-nausea effects.

Due to these properties, CBD can also be suitable for relieving symptoms caused by pancreatitis in dogs.

 

Canine pancreatitis

 

Pancreatitis also occurs in dogs, but understandably it is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption. There are two types of pancreatitis in dogs, acute and chronic.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis are sudden onset symptoms which include e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, fever and fatigue. The symptoms can be very strong.

The symptoms associated with chronic pancreatitis are similar, but mild and almost imperceptible. Sometimes it can also be completely asymptomatic. (7)

Canine pancreatitis can be caused by many reasons, but typically it is caused by excess weight, fatty food, medications, or physical injury, such as a blow to the stomach. It is treated with painkillers and hydration. Healing depends on the intensity of the symptoms and the individual situation. (7)

Pancreatitis is more common in certain dog breeds and these include e.g. terriers, cocker spaniels and miniature schnauzers. (7)

 

Summary

 

Pancreatitis is an unpleasant disease, mainly caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which may even lead to death. The only way to prevent its onset is to use alcohol in moderation and after mild pancreatitis to stop using it completely. CBD oil may be helpful in relieving the symptoms of pancreatitis, although it cannot cure it by itself.

 

Sources

 

  1. 2022. Terveykylä.fi. Pancreatitis. https://www.terveyskyla.fi/vatsatalo/ylävatsa/haimatälätä. Referenced 13/03/2023.
  2. P. Mustajoki. 2020. Duodecim Health Library. Pancreatitis. https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/dlk00017 . Referenced 13/03/2023. 2022. Terveykylä.fi. Pancreatitis. https://www.terveyskyla.fi/vatsatalo/ylävatsa/haimatälätä. Referenced 13/03/2023.
  3. Tays. 2019. Diet of a pancreatic patient. https://www.tays.fi/fi-FI/Ohjeet/Potilasohjeet/Vatsaelinsairaudet/Haimapotilaan_ruokavalio(46272). Referenced 13/03/2023.
  4. Cortes-Justo E., Ramirez-Garfias S. and Flores-Vilches A.. 2023. The function of the endocannabinoid system in the pancreatic islet and its implications on metabolic syndrome and diabetes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9815253/. Referenced 13/03/2023.
  5. Sly M, Clark K, Karaghossian G, Narang VK, Gill M and Ragland AS. 2021. Cannabis-Induced Pancreatitis in a Young Adult Male. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8312169/. Referenced 13/03/2023.
  6. Jaiswal V. et al. 2022. Acute pancreatitis as a rare adverse event among cannabis users: A systematic review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9239618/. Referenced 13/03/2023.
  7. Hilasvuori S. 2021. Own animal clinic. Canine pancreatitis. https://omaelainklinikka.fi/koiran-haimatulehdus/. Referenced 13/03/2023.
CBD and depression

CBD and depression

cannabinoids, CBD experiences, Effect of CBD oil

The use of CBD oil to alleviate symptoms caused by depression is safe and, according to user experiences, also effective. Depression is a very common state of mind and when it becomes chronic, it makes life difficultugh.

In this article, we look at the factors behind depression and whether CBD oil or CBD capsules could help with the symptoms caused by it.

 

Depression causing low energy

 

Depression is at the same time one of the most underrated and the most common mental health disorders. Many depressed people must have heard that they are just a lazy, tired or boring guy who never goes anywhere. In fact, he is really exhausted and down, and may not even be able to cook, let alone go to the store. In Finland, there are approx. 6% of the population and the main symptoms are similar; the person experiences a strong decrease in interest and the feeling of pleasure, as well as deep feelings of depression (1).

 

Chronic depression is often a co-morbidity

 

Chronic depression is often a co-morbidity, but it also affects people who do not have any underlying long-term illness. Studies show that depression is partly hereditary, especially in those cases where a person comes from challenging circumstances (1,2). Despite numerous studies, the origins of depression have not been reached, it is only possible to assess which factors influence its origin and what happens in the body when a person experiences depression.

 

The endocannabinoid system plays a role in the background of depression

 

Depression, like everything else that happens in the body, is influenced by the endocannabinoid system. That important system balances all body functions and tries its best to keep us healthy! The background of depression is especially affected by the CB1 receptor and endocannabinoid anandamide (2,3). These components of the endocannabinoid system play a direct role in anxiety-like behavior and stress susceptibility and are considered important pathophysiological contributors to depression (2).

 

Chronic stress contributes to anandamide deficiency by increasing the production of FAAH fatty acid amide hydrolase, which is responsible for the breakdown of endocannabinoids. Anandamide is the so-called happiness molecule, which is central to the experience of the feeling of pleasure.

A depressed person with his feet in the water.

CBD can have a mood-elevating effect that can help with depression that causes low mood.

 

The CB1 receptor plays an important role in the treatment of depression

 

In particular, the CB1 receptor has been found to play an important role as a mood regulator. Disturbance in the regulation of the CB1 receptor leads to a reduced ability to enjoy pleasure, a passive tolerance to stress and a higher susceptibility to develop depression-like symptoms (2). The CB1 receptor has a clear role in terminating the stress response mediated by the HPA axis (2,4).

 

The HPA axis and glucocorticoids

 

Dysfunction of the HPA axis, one of the key factors in depression, is strongly regulated by the endocannabinoid system. The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis regulates the action of the steroid hormone glucocorticoids in the body, and these steroid hormones are responsible for regulating the body’s stress response to internal and external threats. (2,4)

 

Depression triggers the symptoms

 

In addition to low mood, depression is also associated with other symptoms related to feelings and moods. A depressed person often feels feelings of inferiority and worthlessness, guilt and, in cases of severe depression, also thoughts related to death and suicide.

 

As depression is a disease that affects the mood very strongly, it also has physical symptoms. Depressed people often struggle in one way or another with weight and appetite. Sleep-related challenges are common, as are weakness and constant fatigue. The flow of thought may slow down and concentration may be difficult, sometimes body movements also become slower.

 

What causes depression?

 

The actual cause of depression is not known, and therefore the development of antidepressants also has its own challenges. Depression is almost always caused by stress. It can also be triggered by the death of a loved one or a pet, or some other traumatic life experience that causes deep sadness. There are often different degrees of depression anxiety. Postpartum depression is also common.


Postpartum depression

 

Of the Finnish parents, approx. 10-20% experience depression after giving birth. Depression occurs most within three months after giving birth and it usually gets better within a few months. Postpartum depression can range from mild to moderate to severe depression. The symptoms of depression vary from person to person. (5)

At its worst, postpartum depression may trigger anxiety in addition to chronic depression, and episodes of depression may recur later. After the first birth, the risk of recurrence of depression for subsequent births is around 50-60%. (5)

 

No exact reason for the depressive phase of the birth mother is known yet, but it is estimated that it may be related to a general tendency to depression, thyroid gland dysfunction and overload. The young age of the mother, previous traumas, domestic violence, changes in hormone function and complications during pregnancy may also increase susceptibility to depression. (5)

 

Serotonin deficiency

 

The use of substances significantly increases the risk of developing depression. Regarding bodily functions, depression is associated with a lack of serotonin, as well as a malfunction of the HPA axis. Endocannabinoid normal production of anandamide prevents excessive release of serotonin from platelets. Full-spectrum CBD oil can help with depression, as it promotes the functioning of the endocannabinoid system by making cannabinoids available to the body.

The nerve cell and the effect of CBD on it.

According to research, CBD has effects that protect the nervous system and reduce inflammation in the body

 

CBD protects the nervous system

 

CBDThe mechanism of action of ) is still largely a mystery. It is known that it responds to CB receptors rather poorly, but it is also known that it has more than 60 other receptors in the body that it positively affects. Related to depression, it inhibits the activity of FAAH fatty acid amide hydrolase. FAAH is a molecule that breaks down cannabinoids and its overactivity causes a deficiency for anandamide .

 

CBD has been found to have protective effects on the nervous system, as well as anti-inflammatory effects in the body (2). CBD has been found to weaken physiological and behavioral reactions in stressful situations (2,3). It inhibits the activity of the HPA axis and activates the serotonin receptor.

Depression can be caused by inflammation

 

Silent inflammation is low-grade inflammation in the body that occurs slowly over a long period of time. It is different from, for example, an infection caused by bacteria. In recent years, theories related to depression have been turned in the direction that the underlying cause might be inflammation and therefore also a disturbance in the immune response. The reason for this change in direction is the ineffectiveness of serotonin-related drugs and the assumption that the actual cause of depression is somewhere other than the reuptake of serotonin, although that disorder is also usually found in the background of depression. (6,7)

 

Silent inflammation is affected by diet, stress, amount of exercise, etc., exactly the same things that seem to be behind all imbalances in the body. Cannabinoids CBD and cannabigerol (CBG) produce anti-inflammatory effects and have a broad effect on all kinds of skin inflammation, including inflammation of the nervous system, which is thought to be the cause of depression…

CBD has been shown to calm key inflammatory mediators, free radicals and nitric oxide production.

 

Finally

 

Both depression and CBD are so multidimensional and challenging in their actions that it is difficult to give direct answers to how CBD oil helps depression. According to user experiences and research, supporting the endocannabinoid system with CBD oil can be an effective and versatile aid for various depressive symptoms. The endocannabinoid system also plays a significant role in the underlying physiology of depression.

 

Sources

  1. Duodecim ; depressive state, i.e. depression. 2022. https://www.terveyskirjasto.fi/dlk00389. Referred on 5/15/2022
  2. Gallego-Landin I., Garcia-Baos A., Castro-Zavala A., Valverde O.. 2021. Reviewing the Role of endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of depression. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Gallego-Landin 20I %20I% %5D&cauthor=true&cauthor_uid=34938182. Referred on 5/15/2022
  3. Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Sala %20F% 5BAuthor%5D&cauthor=true&cauthor_uid=33228239. Referred on 5/15/2022
  4. Viinamäki H., Lehto SM, Palvimo J., Harvima I., Valkonen-korhonen M., Koivumaa-Honkanen H., Hintikka J., Honkalampi K., Niskanen L.. Duodecim ; The connection of glucocorticoids to the origin and symptoms of depression. 2012. https://www.duodecimlehti.fi/duo10282#s2. Referred on 5/15/2022
  5. Thl.fi. 2022. Postpartum depression. https://thl.fi/fi/web/lapset-nuoret-ja-perheet/sote-palvelut/aitiys-ja-lastenneuvola/neuvolatyon-sisallot-ja-menetelmat/synnytyksen-jalkeinen-masennus. Referred on 31/05/2022
  6. Pure ; Low-grade inflammation can underlie many diseases. https://www.puhti.fi/tietopaketit/matala-asteinen-tulehdus/. Referred on 5/15/2022
  7. Duodecim ; Depressive symptoms possibly related to inflammation. https://www.duodecim.fi/2022/01/05/masennusoireet-mahdollisesti-yhteydessa-tulehdukseen/. Referred on 5/15/2022
Autism and CBD

Autism and CBD

cannabinoids, CBD experiences, Effect of CBD oil

Autism and the autism spectrum are associated with a number of different neurological disorders, which usually complicate the life of the sufferer. The spectrum of autism includes various factors affecting the ability to function, which can vary individually with large differences. Even perfectly healthy people are very different in many ways, and the same applies to autistic people. Everyone has their own individual traits and ways of experiencing the world.

Some of those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are able to live independently, while some need help to survive in everyday life throughout their lives. An autistic person’s need for help can vary, e.g. depending on life situation, age and support measures. (1)

The word spectrum refers to the variation and intensity of symptoms arising from disorders. Autism spectrum disorder is recognized much more often in men than in women. Out of the entire population in Finland, less than one percent (0.7%) of the population suffers from autism. It is not yet known exactly what causes the differences in prevalence, but it is thought to be related to biological differences between the sexes. (2)

 

Traits of autism

 

Autism affects a person’s way of experiencing and sensing the environment. Most of the time, the interaction and communication of an autistic person differs from “normal”, so to speak.

Common features for autistics are e.g. difficulties in controlling one’s own activities, difficulties in social situations (communication), a different way of interpreting and sensing situations, and sensitivity to nervous system overload and stress. However, the features vary from case to case. (1)

Autism features also include areas that can manifest as exceptional talent, such as the ability to pay attention to details and solve even difficult puzzles. In addition to them, autistic people can have excellent concentration and a clear understanding of right and wrong. (1)

 

The characteristics of the spectrum of mild autism in a child can be determined with the help of research.

Common features for autistic people are difficulties in controlling their own activities, communication difficulties, and sensitivity to nervous system overload and stress.

 

Autism spectrum disorders

 

Autism spectrum disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorders, i.e. ASD) and related brain development disorders become apparent at an early stage. The characteristics and challenges in functioning of autistic people can vary significantly.

List of autism spectrum disorders:

  • Autism
  • Asperger syndrome
  • Pervasive developmental disorder (atypical autism)
  • Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Specified (PDD-NOS)
  • Rett syndrome
  • Disintegrative developmental disorder (Heller’s disease)

 

There is not only one clear cause behind the disorders, but several biological factors influence it. Although the exact causes have not yet been identified, in any case, hereditary factors influence the prevalence of the disorder. According to current data, 65-90 percent of autism spectrum disorders are inherited. (2)

In the entire population, the autism spectrum is observed in about 1 percent of people. In developed countries, the number is higher (1.5%) and has almost doubled in 10 years. (3)

 

Asperger syndrome

 

Autism-related diagnoses have become more specific. Once thought of as a rare childhood disorder, Asperger’s syndrome is now classified as a lifelong illness. The syndrome in question was named after the Austrian pediatrician Hans Asperger and was introduced in Finland in the 1990s.

Asperger’s syndrome and autism are now classified as part of the autism spectrum disorder and those terms have been removed from the classification (ICD-11 and DSM-5). The autism spectrum is defined on a case-by-case basis from mild to severe. (3)

 

Symptoms of Autism

 

Autism-related symptoms usually appear already during early childhood, within the first three years of age. Sometimes the symptoms are only noticed in preschool or later. An autistic child usually has difficulty understanding verbal and non-verbal communication. Often, maintaining eye contact has also proven to be challenging. (2)

The symptoms related to autism are therefore especially manifested in social situations and interactions with others. The disorder may include certain repetitive behaviors and special interests that an autistic person easily becomes immersed in. Each person suffering from autism spectrum disorders has their own characteristics, and some may live very independently, while others may have a great need for help with everyday tasks. (2)

 

The most common symptoms related to autism spectrum disorder

 

  • Difficulty understanding the feelings and thinking of others
  • The challenges of starting and maintaining a conversation
  • The difficulty of working in a group
  • Difficulty accepting new situations and changes
  • Avoiding eye contact
  • Little use of sign language and facial expressions
  • Difficulty forming lasting friendships. (4)

 

It is also possible that the symptoms are not noticed until later in life, when the pressures of working life or postgraduate studies increase. Potential disorders should also be diagnosed by adults, so that work, study and the necessary measures related to rehabilitation can be planned in the necessary way and the risk of being marginalized can be prevented. (3)

 

Autism is diagnosed and tested using various tests for both children and adults.

Getting a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is a multi-step process that is done together with the help of an expert doctor. Various tests, examinations and interviews are needed for diagnosis.

 

Autism test

 

Although the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder usually become apparent at an early stage, no specific age limit has been set for its definition. It is possible to make the diagnosis even for an adult, and for that there are tests that support the definition of autism. (5)

If you suspect an autism spectrum disorder in yourself or someone close to you, the general recommendation is to seek a doctor’s consultation and prepare for the appointment by thinking about and writing down all the observed features classified as autism spectrum that occur in everyday life. The doctor has the option of separately requesting an appointment with a neuropsychologist, where the matter can be examined in more detail with the help of various examinations. (5)

Getting an official diagnosis is a multi-step process and is usually done with the help of a doctor familiar with the subject through various examinations and interviews. In addition, the diagnosis often also requires interviewing close people, seeing a psychologist and therapist. In the studies, special attention is paid to functional ability, communication, interaction skills and interests throughout life. School certificates, birth records and other documents related to growth and development should be included to make the process easier, as comprehensive examinations to make a diagnosis often require a lot of time. (5)

 

Screening

 

There are various tests and screening tools to support the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Filling out the form can make the doctor’s work easier and speed up the diagnosis.

In the links below, you can find screening forms to support the definition of autism in children and adults.


Digital CHAT evaluation form (in Finnish)

 

Digital M-CHAT-R extended evaluation form , (in Finnish)

 

The AQ-10 screening form intended for adults may be helpful at the doctor’s office when assessing the need for additional tests to make a possible diagnosis in an adult who does not have major learning difficulties.

AQ-10 evaluation form for identifying the autism spectrum in adults

 

The ASSQ screening form, designed for parents of children, can clarify and be helpful in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders.

ASSQ assessment form for parents

 

The GQ-ASC screening form below is designed to identify autism-related behaviors and abilities in cis and trans women.

GQ-ASC assessment form (cis and trans women)

 

An autistic child is playing on the floor. A person with an autism spectrum disorder can get help from CBD oil.

An autistic child easily drifts into playing only his own games. In the behavior of an autistic child, deficiencies are also often observed in relation to language development and making eye contact.

 

An autistic child

 

Some autistic children manage well independently, while others may need daily support. At worst, an autistic child can also significantly challenge the lives of the child’s loved ones. (1)

In addition to genetics, there are also physiological factors involved in the manifestation of autism. Upbringing has not been found to have a connection with the prevalence of autism. (1)

Autism may appear in a child very early, before the age of 1 year. In general, deficiencies are noticed in the behavior of autistic children, e.g. in eye contact, language development and the way they play with other children. The child may also have a different way of answering questions and expressing emotions. An autistic child may get irritated easily and drift off to play only his own games. The importance of familiar and repeated routines is emphasized in an autistic child. (6)

 

Autism treatment

 

Autism spectrum disorders are congenital, and no curative treatment has yet been invented.

In the revised disease classification, autism is not currently separated into separate diagnoses and e.g. Asperger’s syndrome, a mild form of autism, is now considered part of the autism spectrum disorder.

Although there is no known cure for autism spectrum disorders, its symptoms can be alleviated and individual development can be supported with, for example, occupational therapy and speech therapy. In addition, it is important for an autistic child and his parents to accept the prevailing situation and learn to live with the personality traits that are associated with it. (7)

If the symptoms significantly challenge everyday life, it is worth discussing the matter together with an expert neuropsychologist, with whom the treatment of the situation and the need for different forms of support can be planned in an appropriate way. Usually, support and rehabilitation takes place in cooperation with kindergarten, healthcare or school. (7)

The control of one’s own actions and the development of the brain continue until at least the age of 25. The symptoms related to the autism spectrum may decrease after reaching adulthood, if the child receives the necessary support along the way and participates in a rehabilitation program. In some cases, with the help of successful rehabilitation and support, the symptoms can decrease so much that the previous diagnosis no longer matches the picture of the symptoms. (7)

 

Autism spectrum treatment with CBD

 

Symptoms of the autism spectrum are currently also treated with CBD products such as CBD oil and CBD capsules. This alternative and natural form of treatment has spread worldwide in popularity, when several doctors and parents of autistic children have publicly shared their positive experiences and results related to autism treatment.

Some studies have shown that cannabinoid products reduced the number and/or intensity of symptoms associated with the autism spectrum, including hyperactivity, self-harm, sleep disturbances , feelings of anger, anxiety , irritability, restlessness , psychomotor agitation, aggression, and depression .. In addition, they observed improvement in cognition, sensory sensitivity, attention, social interaction and language. The most common side effects were sleep disturbances, restlessness, nervousness and changes in appetite. (8)

Especially for minors, the safety of using CBD should always be evaluated on a case-by-case basis together with an expert doctor.

CBD is hardly a panacea that cures the disorder completely, but for many it seems to be a significant help in everyday functioning and in alleviating the symptoms. Read more in the next paragraph about how the endocannabinoid system and autism are connected.

 

The role of the endocannabinoid system in autism

 

The vital functions of almost every animal are controlled and balanced by an internal cannabinoid system. It is absent only in insects and protozoa. Complicated endocannabinoid system consists of a network of receptors covering the entire body, which are affected by neurotransmitters. It is known to influence and regulate e.g. brain, kidney, liver and immune system function. (9)

Based on new evidence, people with autism spectrum disorder have anandamide the amount found to be lower than in a healthy control group. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid, also known as the happiness molecule, or internal cannabinoid, and based on this research result, the internal cannabinoid system and the imbalance of cannabinoids can have an effect on the manifestation of the disorder. (10)

Autism-related disorder has also been linked to the amount of oxytocin in the body. Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, is a neuropeptide consisting of amino acids that is expressed in mammals and acts as a messenger and hormone. Oxytocin is produced in the brain’s hypothalamus, from where it passes through the pituitary gland into the bloodstream. Today it is known that oxytocin plays a significant role in e.g. in the formation and maintenance of the attachment relationship between the child and its parents. In addition to that, oxytocin is also associated with social, emotional, cognitive functions. Since the production of oxytin is also regulated by the internal cannabinoid system, you can from CBD and some others of cannabinoids be useful in connection with its normal production. (11)

Researchers think that the interaction between anandamide and oxytocin and the correction of their deficiency states related to autism could provide relief in treating the symptoms (11).

The internal cannabinoid system also seems to play an important role in relation to social interaction skills and emotions, which CBD and certain cannabinoids can activate. By affecting the receptors of this body system, it may also have an effect on alleviating the symptoms of autism.

 

THC and autism

 

Although research is still ongoing, there are indications that THC-cannabinoid may reduce internal anandamide concentrations in the body. The concentrations of anandamide are already low in people with autism, so it should be avoided the continuous use of THC. Anxiety is also a common symptom associated with autism, and THC and THCV may make it worse for some. However, the experiments were done on rats and with strong THC-containing cannabis products, so how it affects humans is not yet fully understood.

Generally, in CBD oils, the traces of THC are minimal enough to be detrimental to anandamide levels. Understanding the issue is also complicated by the fact that, according to studies, full-spectrum CBD products are prone to side effects (see entourage effect) are therefore more effective for many diseases and imbalances in the body than isolated cannabinoids (isolates). Full spectrum means that the final product also contains THC, although often only in very small amounts.

If you are considering CBD products for the treatment of an autism spectrum disorder and want products containing as little THC as possible, you should consider CBD products activated by heating, because their THC concentrations are usually significantly lower. See more about how heating works decarboxylation affects the final product.

Sources

 

  1. Autism Association. 2022. Basic information about autism. https://autismiliitto.fi/autismi/perustietoa-autismista/. Referred on 12/09/2022
  2. Health house. Autism and autism spectrum disorders. https://www.terveystalo.com/fi/tietopaketit/autimi-ja-autismikirjon-hairiot/#Mit %c3% a4 %20on% 20autismin%20kirjo . Referred on 12/09/2022
  3. Hanna Raaska & Raija Vanhala. 2020. Medical journal. Why and how do the diagnostic criteria for autism change? https://www.laakarilehti.fi/tieteessa/katsausartikkeli/miksi-ja-miten-autismin-diagnostiset-kritierit-muuutuvatt/?public=7fcf41d96a001eee7da91094299e5b86 . Referred on 08/12/2022
  4. Mielenterveystalo.fi. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD). https://www.mielenterveystalo.fi/lapset/ammattilaisille/hairiot/autismikirjon_hairiot/Pages/autisimikirjon_hairiot_ASD.aspx. Referred on 13/09/2022
  5. Autism Association. 2022. Diagnosing the autism spectrum. https://autismiliitto.fi/autismi/diagnosointi/. Referred on 13/09/2022
  6. Autism Association. 2022. Autism in different stages of life. https://autismiliitto.fi/autismi/autismikirjo-eri-elamanvaiheissa/. Referred on 09/04/2022.
  7. Pekka Räisänen & Ulla Boshkov. Autism in a child. https://www.mehilainen.fi/lasten-mehilainen/autismi-ja-autismikirjo. Referred on 13/09/2022
  8. Estácio Amaro da Silva Jr. and others 2022. Trends Psychiatry Psychother. Cannabis and cannabinoid use in Autism Spectrum disorder: a systematic review. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34043900/. Referred on 15/09/2022
  9. Ethan Russo. 2015. Phytecs. Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System . https://www.phytecs.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Russo-Introduction-to-the-Endocannabinoid-System-corr-January-2015.pdf . Referred on 14.09.2022
  10. Debra S. Karhson et al. 2018. Molecular Autism. Plasma anandamide concentrations are lower in children with autism spectrum disorder.https://molecularautism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13229-018-0203-y. Referred on 15/09/2022
  11. Don Wei et al. 2015. Pnas. Endocannabinoid signaling mediates oxytocin-driven social reward. https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1509795112 . Referred on 15/09/2022
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