Clinical and Family Implications of Cannabidiol (CBD)-Dominant Full-Spectrum Phytocannabinoid Extract in Children and Adolescents with Moderate to Severe Non-Syndromic Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): An Observational Study on Neurobehavioral Management

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication and behavior. Current pharmacological options are limited and feature significant side effects. In this study, we conducted a retrospective, observational, and cross-sectional cohort study to evaluate the effects of Cannabidiol (CBD)-dominant, full-spectrum cannabis extract, containing Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a ratio of 33:1 (CBD:THC), on non-syndromic children and adolescents (5–18 years old) with moderate to severe ASD. Thirty volunteers were recruited, underwent neuropsychological evaluations and were treated with individualized doses of CBD-dominant extract. Clinical assessments were conducted by the designated clinician. Additionally, parents or caregivers were independently interviewed to assess perceived treatment effects. We found significant improvements in various symptomatic and non-symptomatic aspects of ASD, with minimal untoward effects, as reported by both clinical assessments and parental perceptions. The observed improvements included increased communicative skills, attention, learning, eye contact, diminished aggression and irritability, and an overall increase in both the patient’s and family’s quality of life. Despite its limitations, our findings suggest that treatment with full-spectrum CBD-dominant extract may be a safe and effective option for core and comorbid symptoms of ASD, and it may also increase overall quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families.