Treatment of symptoms and comorbidities associated with Autistic Spectrum Disorder using Cannabis sativa

Abstract

Objective: To investigate in the perception of health professionals about the use of Cannabis sativa in the treatment of symptoms and comorbidities associated with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: This is a qualitative study, using a focus group for data collection. The target population consisted of health professionals linked to the treatment and/or study of children with ASD. Results: After analyzing the responses of the participants, two categories were identified: benefits of using Cannabis sativa in the ASD and challenges found in the use of Cannabis sativa. The benefits are related to the improvement of symptoms associated with ASD and among the challenges, access to Cannabis stood out; the little knowledge about its application in the TEA; and the ineffective response in certain cases; beyond the prejudice of its use. Conclusion: The use of Cannabis sativa and its metabolites improves the symptoms of ASD, increasing the quality of life of the patients and their caregivers. The challenges identified for its use must be overcome to improve its access, becoming a more viable alternative for the treatment of the symptoms associated with ASD.