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Marijuana and Autism: Unlikely Discovery


Chronic Staff | March 4, 2022


Cannabis, Pot, and Marijuana are three words we hear more common than before, not on the streets but also medically.


A few years back, we didn't anticipate the medical acceptance of Cannabis in the majority of the States. But we're here now. Interestingly enough, it's great how the world turned out to be. Well, to say the least, it's a great leap and a big step forward for human evolution. An alternative medical reform, if you will, for people who are struggling to find other means to have their disorders solved.


Now, we'll be discussing Autism and how Medical Marijuana can cut through it?


What is Autism?


We always hear the word "Autism," but how much do we really know about it? There are myriad studies published by neurological experts. Yet, some people are clueless and unaware of the perils associated with Autism.


For starters, Autism is a neurological disorder. It affects the mind on the neurological or hormonal levels. It starts early in life. Walking it throughout later in the development stage.


The thing with Autism is that the development stage is either slow or hampered. People diagnosed with Autism are excellent communicators but have a hard time sustaining a conversation. If you flip on the other side, some individuals are entirely non-verbal.


Lurking around the internet just gives the vibes of what it's like. You can see countless videos and images displaying the physical manifestations and effects of Autism on an individual.


And as you can notice, they have a certain routine, an affinity to do things repeatedly, which sometimes leads to a more troublesome problem. Sadly, self-harm and aggression are very common, especially for those who have severe conditions. Anything from banging their head on the wall repetitively, biting their hand, and punching themselves.


Core symptoms are associated with repetitive behaviors, social and communication issues, and rigidity.


As we mentioned above, Autism is not a joke, and the medical industry should be alarmed if the present medications don't work. The silent walls of physician halls won't kick Autism away; we have to take a step or have an alternative.


Based on the statistics presented by CDC, 1 out of 44 American children has Autism. Pump that amount, and 10 out of 440 Americans have Autism. That's a huge blow and number. It continues to balloon and swell throughout the decades.


How is Autism diagnosed?


Spot-on diagnosis for disorders like Autism doesn't work well. Visual examination is too good to be true. You need numbers, a series of countless examinations, tests, and requires technologically-advanced equipment to commence - which are, admittedly, expensive.


What are the Current Medical Practices in Mitigating Autism?


Although behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can be beneficial, there are no FDA-approved therapies for the fundamental symptoms of Autism.

There are two FDA-approved antipsychotic drugs used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Both are also approved to treat autistic children, but only if they exhibit significant violence or self-injury.


"These medications are beneficial for certain symptoms but unfortunately have considerable adverse effects," said Dr. Eric Hollander, head of the Autism and Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Program at Montefiore Health System in New York.


"It may predispose individuals to the development of conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular difficulties."


"There is an urgent need to discover new medicines, both to cure the fundamental symptoms of autism and to reduce the burden of side effects," he noted.


How Can Marijuana Help Those Who Have Autism?


Recent Israeli clinical research indicates that medical Marijuana extracts aid youngsters with Autism by lowering disruptive behavior and enhancing social responsiveness.


Marijuana, though approved and accepted by many US states for medical use, remained questionable as an alternative option for Autism. However, this statement is backed up by short-ended medical grounds and still rests until more sufficient evidence supports the efficacy of Medical Marijuana as a second (and wise) option.


But, let's emphasize that Marijuana itself does not cure Autism itself. Not the disorder, but the physical manifestations. We mentioned above the realities and pain the individuals' experience. We don't want them to undergo an unforgiving ordeal every day. Maybe, it's worth it giving it a try, you might guess.


Avant-Garde Medical Marijuana


Medical Marijuana has solid evidence in treating chronic pain. Many can attest, and thousands turn to Cannabis for pain management. Its sedative properties help people suffering from insomnia, PTSD, eating disorders, Parkinson's disease, etc. They found a renewed impression of Pot's sky-high (no pun intended!) potential to solve neurological disorders. However, the only thing separating Cannabis and its treating capabilities is a more intensified effort in research.


Is it worth even trying?


We are not saying that you should, but before you proceed in using Medical Marijuana - even for a while, you should consult your doctor first. This is because patients react differently to Cannabis.


Its effects can help aid their repetitive behaviors, especially right now. The doctor might also help with the correct dosage and administration.


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