UK Researchers Examine Cannabis Use And ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders that people are diagnosed with. Diagnosis typically happens in adolescence, with the condition often continuing into adulthood.
According to a study conducted in 2021, “the prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58% and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%, translating to 139.84 million and 366.33 million affected adults in 2020 globally.”
A team of researchers in the United Kingdom associated with various academic institutions recently examined the relationship between human cannabis consumption and the quality of life among ADHD patients.
“This study aims to analyze the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and safety outcomes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients treated with cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs).” the researchers stated about the intent of the study.
“Patients were identified from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. Primary outcomes were changes in the following patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months from baseline: EQ-5D-5L index value, generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire, and the single-item sleep quality score (SQS). Secondary outcomes assessed the incidence of adverse events. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.050.” the researchers stated about their methodology.
The United Kingdom has a more restrictive medical cannabis program compared to many other countries, and that is important to keep in mind for any study involving the UK Medical Cannabis Registry.
“Significant improvements were identified in general HRQoL assessed by EQ-5D-5L index value at 1, 3, and 6 months (p < 0.050). Improvements were also identified in GAD-7 and SQS scores at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (p < 0.010). 61 (89.71%) adverse events were recorded by 11 (16.18%) participants, of which most were moderate (n = 26, 38.24%).” the researchers stated about the results of the study.
“An association between CBMP treatment and improvements in anxiety, sleep quality, and general HRQoL was observed in patients with ADHD. Treatment was well tolerated at 12 months.” the researchers concluded.
