In the past decade or so years, there has been a significant increase in the number of adults being diagnosed with ADHD. This increase has coincided with a global shift in the way medical cannabis is viewed. Here in the UK, cannabis became a legal treatment option back in 2018, and while the NHS will not offer patients with ADHD a prescription for cannabis, it is still possible to acquire medical weed strains through private clinics.
But,
How does medical weed even help ADHD?
What does the research say?
And what are the best weed strains for ADHD?
Key Takeaways
ECS Importance: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is integral to numerous physiological functions, impacting focus, memory, and mood, making it particularly relevant for those with ADHD.
Cannabis and ADHD: While research is limited, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that medical cannabis can alleviate ADHD symptoms, including improving focus and reducing anxiety.
Strain Selection: The effectiveness of cannabis for ADHD varies among individuals, with Sativa strains aiding inattentiveness and low energy, Indica strains helping hyperactivity and impulsivity, and Hybrids providing a balanced approach.
Medical Guidance: Always consult a specialist doctor before considering medical cannabis, as it is a controlled substance in the UK and requires a prescription from a licensed professional.
Ongoing Research: The field is still developing, with hopes for more comprehensive studies in the future to better understand the benefits of medical cannabis for ADHD and similar conditions.
What is ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is often misinterpreted as a behavioural problem, or misdiagnosed as other mental health issues, usually some form of anxiety.
ADHD is a complex neurological condition that affects the brain's executive functions, including attention, impulse control, and self-regulation
People with ADHD may exhibit symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, forgetfulness, fidgeting, and impulsiveness. These symptoms can have a big impact on the daily functioning of people with ADHD, affecting their relationships, work performance and overall quality of life.
The recent rise in adult ADHD diagnosis (especially in women) is somewhat of a mystery. Some experts suggest that it may be due to improved awareness and understanding of the disorder, while others believe it could be linked to changing lifestyle factors such as increased screen time and lack of physical activity.
Either way, the fact remains that more and more adults are being diagnosed, and subsequently looking at the treatment options available, including the best weed strains for ADHD.
How is ADHD typically treated?
The most common treatment for ADHD is medication, usually in the form of stimulant drugs such as Ritalin or Adderall. While these pharmaceutical options can be effective in managing symptoms, they also come with potential side effects and may not be suitable for everyone.
Therapy is also often recommended as part of a holistic approach to managing ADHD. This can include behavioural therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), or coaching to help develop coping strategies and improve executive function skills.
But, again, the conventional pharmaceutical options that are commonly offered to people with ADHD come with a long list of potential side effects, including appetite loss, insomnia, and anxiety. The need for complementary (or even alternative) treatment options is clear.
How can weed help with ADHD?
While research regarding the use of cannabis for treating ADHD is still in its infancy, there are some interesting studies and anecdotal evidence that suggest it could be a viable option for managing symptoms. But before diving into the specifics of how weed can help with ADHD, let's first talk about how weed affects us.
Plants from the Cannabis sativa L. genus produce chemicals called cannabinoids. The two big names, and the ones most people have heard of, are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" feeling typically associated with marijuana, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has been shown to have therapeutic effects.
This all leads to the introduction of the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
What is the endocannabinoid system?
The ECS is a complex network of neurotransmitters and receptors. Its the largest neurotransmitter system in the human body and plays a crucial role in regulating many physiological functions, including some that specifically relate to ADHD - such as focus, memory, and mood.
The ECS regulates functions by interacting with the body's naturally produced endocannabinoids (endogenous cannabinoids), but can also respond to cannabinoids found in plants, such as THC and CBD.
THC interacts with the ECS by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain, resulting in a change in cognitive function and mood. CBD has a weak affinity for CB2 but also interacts with other receptor pathways and can boost levels of endogenous cannabinoids.
Can weed improve focus and concentration for people with ADHD?
One of the more common issues that people with ADHD face is difficulty concentrating and staying focused for extended periods. This is where medical cannabis comes into play.
One study, published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, found that adults with ADHD who used medical cannabis reported a significant reduction in symptoms, including improved concentration and sleep quality. The study found that:
"Nearly 92% of respondents reported acute cannabis use improved ADHD symptoms".
Anxiety is another common issue experienced by people with ADHD, and one that medical cannabis has also been found to be effective in treating.
This 2010 study demonstrated that CBD application reduces anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder. These results are further supported by a large-scale case study, which reported that nearly 80% of participants experienced a significant decrease in anxiety levels following CBD usage.
While there is still a clear lack of research on the use of cannabis for treating ADHD, the existing studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that it is be a viable option for those looking to manage their symptoms without having to rely solely on pharmaceutical medications.
Of course, it is essential to consult with a healthcare specialist doctor. In the UK, cannabis is a controlled substance, and medical cannabis treatment requires a prescription from a specialist doctor. The NHS is unwilling to offer prescriptions for medical cannabis to help with ADHD, but private medical clinics have the legal authority to do so.
So, what are the best strains for ADHD?
Unfortunately, there really isn't any single, clear answer to this question.
People react differently to different strains, and what may work well for one person may not have the same effect on another.
Sativa dominant strains offer a more uplifting and energising effect, making them potentially helpful for managing symptoms of inattentiveness and low energy.
Indica dominant strains tend to be more sedating and calming, which may be useful for individuals struggling with hyperactivity or impulsivity.
Hybrid strains that offer a balance of both Sativa and Indica effects may be the best choice for those looking for symptom relief without feeling overly energised or sedated.
With that said, there are a few options that definitely stand above the pack, and may be the best weed strains for ADHD...
To find the best option for your unique health needs, it's always best to speak to a doctor that is both experienced with medical cannabis and familiar with your specific condition. They can help guide you towards the strains and dosage that may be most beneficial for you.
The wrap up
While the research is still a little scarce, it is slowly catching up with the anecdotal evidence of people's experiences using medical cannabis to help manage their ADHD symptoms.
And the simple fact that UK patients now have another treatment option available is an exciting development in itself.
Hopefully, in the coming months and years, we will see more studies and research emerge to confirm the benefits of medical cannabis in managing ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. Until then, if you are considering medical cannabis as a treatment option, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions. And remember, everyone responds differently, so it may take some trial and error to find the right strain and dosage for your needs.
