←Autism Spectrum Disorder

Study register · detail Prospektive Beobachtungsstudie (unkontrolliert) · Autism Spectrum Disorder · 2019

Oral Cannabidiol Use in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder to Treat Related Symptoms and Co-morbidities

Barchel et al. ·Frontiers in Pharmacology Impact 4.4

Mixed GRADE Very low 205 citations

Samplen = 53 Pat.

DurationMedian 66 days

EndpointComorbid ASD symptoms

Blindingn.a.

DesignProspektive Beobachtungsstudie (unkontrolliert)

Cannabinoidcbd

Routeoral

Key finding

According to parent reports, oral CBD led to improvements in comorbid ASD symptoms in the majority of children, but with variable effect on anxiety.

Summary

n=53 children with ASD (median 11 years), CBD oil 5% oral, median 66 days; self-injury/tantrums improved in 67,6%, worsened 8,8%; hyperactivity improved 68,4%; sleep problems improved 71,4%; anxiety improved 47,1%. No serious side effects; somnolence and appetite change mild.

PopulationChildren with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), n=53, median age 11 years (4–22 years)

InterventionOral cannabidiol oil (drops), dosage not further specified, prospective observation under parental supervision with nurse guidance

OutcomeImprovement in self-injury/tantrums in 67,6%, hyperactivity in 68,4%, sleep problems in 71,4% and anxiety in 47,1% of affected children; mild side effects (somnolence, appetite changes)

Confidence in the evidence

Very low

The lowest GRADE level, the effect estimate remains uncertain.

Downgraded for

Imprecision

Quality profile

Sample size ★★★★★

Blinding —

Effect size Mixed

Citations / year ★★★★★

Authors

Barchel D, Stolar O, De-Haan T et al.

DOI 10.3389/fphar.2018.01521↗

Design: Prospektive Beobachtungsstudie (unkontrolliert)

Abstract

Objective: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly exhibit comorbid symptoms such as aggression, hyperactivity and anxiety. Several studies are being conducted worldwide on cannabidiol use in ASD; however, these studies are still ongoing, and data on the effects of its use is very limited. In this study we aimed to report the experience of parents who administer, under supervision, oral cannabinoids to their children with ASD. Methods: After obtaining a license from the Israeli Ministry of Health, parents of children with ASD were instructed by a nurse practitioner how to administer oral drops of cannabidiol oil. Information on comorbid symptoms and safety was prospectively recorded biweekly during follow-up interviews. An independent group of specialists analyzed these data for changes in ASD symptoms and drug safety. Results: 53 children at a median age of 11 (4-22) year received cannabidiol for a median duration of 66 days (30-588). Self-injury and rage attacks (n = 34) improved in 67.6% and worsened in 8.8%. Hyperactivity symptoms (n = 38) improved in 68.4%, did not change in 28.9% and worsened in 2.6%. Sleep problems (n = 21) improved in 71.4% and worsened in 4.7%. Anxiety (n = 17) improved in 47.1% and worsened in 23.5%. Adverse effects, mostly somnolence and change in appetite were mild. Conclusion: Parents' reports suggest that cannabidiol may improve ASD comorbidity symptoms; however, the long-term effects should be evaluated in large scale studies.

The impediment to action advances action. — Marcus Aurelius