Medical Cannabis in Adult ADHD Patients: Sociological Case Study of Cannabinoid Therapy in Finland

introduction

An adult male patient diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at the age of 33 found relief from his symptoms through the use of cannabinoid therapeutics (CT). Previously, the patient had sought alternative treatment methods due to side effects of conventional medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®).

therapy with cannabinoid therapeutics

After unsuccessful attempts at treatment with various medications, the patient discovered that CT had already been tested for ADHD in the EU. In June 2010, he received a prescription in Germany for Bedrocan® and Bediol®, two medical cannabis products. In October 2010 and May 2011, a Finnish neurologist confirmed the prescriptions, so the patient had access to these medications until 2016.

Effect of Bedrocan® and Bediol®

Bedrocan®, which mainly contains Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), helped the patient to relieve his irritability, outbursts of anger, boredom and concentration problems. Bediol®, which contains both Δ9-THC and cannabidiol (CBD), reduced unwanted side effects of Bedrocan® such as sleep problems and improved overall sleep.

Studies on cannabinoid therapy for ADHD

There is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of CT for ADHD. Aside from this case study, there are only a few clinical reports and one randomized clinical trial in the UK testing a cannabinoid spray in adult ADHD patients.

Conclusion

The case study shows that CT could be an effective treatment alternative for adults with ADHD, especially when conventional medications are not tolerated or do not show sufficient effect. Further clinical studies are needed to determine optimal dosages and drug combinations.