A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology Reports found that cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) potentially improve anxiety, sleep, and health-related quality of life in patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Imperial College London researchers assessed health-related quality of life and safety outcomes in ADHD patients using CBMP products. Before this study, one placebo-controlled randomized controlled CBMP trial showed CBMP improved symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity when treated with nabiximols. Nabiximols is an oromucosal spray with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
The study included 68 participants selected from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. 80.88% were male, with a mean age of 25.63 years old. The researchers analyzed changes in the EQ-5D-5L index value, generalized anxiety disorder-7 questionnaire GAD-7), and the single-item sleep quality score from a baseline reading to measures taken at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.
Participants demonstrated significant improvements in the EQ-5D-5L at months 1, 3, and 6. They also reported better sleep quality scores at months 1, 3, 6, and 12. Participants needed to take concomitant ADHD medication. The research team noted a decrease of 38.46% in lisdexamfetamine use, 15% in methylphenidate, and 14.29% in dexamfetamine.
The team noted significant improvements in anxiety: 50% of participants at month 1, 42.65% at month 3, 39.71% at month 6, and 26.47% at month 12.
Sixty-one participants (89.71%) experienced adverse events, which were primarily moderate (38.24%). Adverse effects included insomnia, concentration problems, dry mouth, lethargy, and drowsiness. Analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in patients prescribed oils (25%), dried flower (23.68%), or both oil and dried flower (3.85%).
The findings suggest that cannabis products potentially reduce symptoms associated with ADHD, such as anxiety and sleep disorders.
Sources: HCP Live, Neuropsychopharmacology Reports
