This is because the research into its utility as short-term relief has been mixed.

In addition, research is limited, and more clinical trials must be conducted before anything can be confirmed.

Nevertheless, here is what we know so far.

Shot of dried marijuana and a rolled joint

Gradyreese / Getty Images

However, marijuana can have negative health effects.

Experts also caution that you should avoid self-medicating and that marijuana should never be a first-line treatment.

What Is ADHD?

ADHD is a common neurobehavioral condition that causes changing levels in hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors.

For example, it can interfere with the daily functioning of that individuals life or their achievements.

Such patterns are diagnosed as one of three different forms of ADHD.

Those with the inattentive throw in may self-treat with marijuana to help improve their ability to focus.

How Could Marijuana Help With ADHD Symptoms?

Does Cannabis Effectively Treat ADHD Symptoms?

As mentioned above, the perception that marijuana is therapeutic for ADHD is growing in popularity.

So, where does this leave us?

She advises people to follow traditional ADHD treatment options until more clinical trials have been conducted on the issue.

Can You Take ADHD Medication and Use Cannabis at the Same Time?

According to Dr. Siegel, the answer to this is complicated.

While this study wasnt conducted on people with ADHD, it does highlight the necessity to be cautious.

In addition, it highlights the lack of research on whether this treatment method would be useful or practical.

For example, using both could potentially limit the efficacy of the medications.

Can I Use Cannabis Instead of ADHD Medication?

Switching your ADHD treatment away from medication to cannabis is strongly unadvised.

Research has found that around 33% to 38% of teens with cannabis use disorder also have ADHD.

Or even an exacerbation of ADHD symptoms.

Can Using Cannabis Make My ADHD Worse?

Cannabis works by activating the brains reward system, releasing dopamine at higher levels than usual.

People with ADHD tend to have low levels of dopamine, which is why THC can feel so rewarding.

People with ADHD who misuse marijuana also experience higher levels of hostility, suspiciousness, and thought disturbances.

Takeaways

Marijuana and ADHD are connected in a few different ways.

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Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).Diagnosis of ADHD in adults.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is ADHD?

National Institute of Mental Health.Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.

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DOI: 10.1007/9783319545646_4

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).CBD oil for ADHD?

What the research says.

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