Vaping CBD for ADD and ADHD

15 January 2019

By: Nicola Webster

Vaping CBD for ADHD and ADD

Does CBD have the potential to help the symptoms of ADD and ADHD?

Research has so far suggested that CBD oil may help sufferers of epilepsy, anxietydepression, panic disorders, and PTSD. But what about Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? Where is the research for these conditions? By the volume of individual positive claims that exist from sufferers, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there was conclusive evidence of the efficacy of CBD. However, in reality, it doesn’t exist (yet!).

CBD research for the treatment of ADD / ADHD

With CBD oil showing positive results for so many neurological conditions, we often get asked if it’s also recommended for those who display the symptoms of ADD and ADHD. As responsible CBD suppliers we never want to give our customers misinformation or false hope. So we delved in to find all the research we could on the matter - and, unfortunately, came up short.

What is ADD / ADHD?

ADD and ADHD are brain based neurodevelopmental disorders that affect both children and adults and are highly genetic. The symptoms are linked to multiple specific brain areas. Diagnosis is often complex as the person needs to exhibit a large number of symptoms for a prolonged period of over six months. Plus, these symptoms must prove to have a significant detrimental effect on their daily life (work, school, relationships).

Many of the symptoms of ADD and ADHD present just like extreme forms of normal behaviour. To complicate matters further, many of the symptoms are present in a number of other conditions. All of this conspires to make a confirmed diagnosis a long and convoluted process. All the while, the person’s life is suffering.

Treatment of ADD / ADHD

Once a diagnosis is achieved, treatment options include various types of psychotherapy, behavioural interventions, and educational support. Usually a person with ADHD receives a combination of these treatments alongside medication.

Medication for ADD and ADHD is generally amphetamine stimulants. These medications may help someone with the condition concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, learn, and practise new skills. However, common side effects with ADD/ADHD medication includes loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, nausea, irritability, aggression, mood swings, and dizziness. Understandably, the pay off with side effects vs benefits can be too high for some people.

Finding relief from ADHD with CBD

All of this being said, it’s easy to see why people may seek to find alternative relief from the symptoms. Many are turning to CBD oil as their own choice of self-medication.

Because mainstream use of CBD oil is recent, there’s very little documented research to support the use of it to treat ADD and ADHD. However, there is ample anecdotal and surface research to support its role in relieving these disorders, and some medical doctors do acknowledge the benefits. They also support further research and studies.

Furthermore, consider the following statistics:

  • 25-40% of adults with ADHD have a coexisting anxiety disorder
  • Up to 70% of those with ADHD will be treated for depression

    at some point in their lives
  • Sleep disorders affect people with ADHD two to three times as often as those without it

These mental health issues often occur alongside ADD and ADHD, and these conditions *do* have documented research showing the efficacy of CBD oil in relieving symptoms. Therefore, although we can’t conclusively say that CBD will have a positive effect on your ADD/ADHD, you can use it to find relief from associated conditions.

Using CBD for ADD and ADHD safely

To date, there is no evidence to suggest that CBD oil is harmful to humans. It is a plant based cannabinoid, and cannabinoids are found naturally in our own bodies. Plus, using CBD from certified hemp strains means there is <0.2% THC (psychoactive) content so there is no ‘high’ from taking CBD. Therefore, it’s safe to take at any time of the day, whenever your particular symptoms persist. Hence, if you decide to try CBD oil to find relief from your ADHD symptoms, even if you don’t find the positive results you were hoping for, you’re unlikely to find any negative ones.

This being said, it’s still absolutely essential that you consult with a doctor before taking CBD oils if you are taking prescribed ADHD medication.

The research into CBD continues

As more studies are undertaken, and more research published, we will continue to update you with all the latest findings regarding CBD.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, or need any advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to help.

The content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a particular medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

15 January 2019 Nicola Webster

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