Regular cannabis consumers are not generally known for their cognitive performance or concentration. With that being said, many users claimed they used marijuana for ADHD and ADD. This claim led researchers to take another look.
What is ADHD and ADD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Patients with this disorder are easily distracted, hyperactive and impulsive. ADD is ADHD, minus the hyperactivity characteristic. Approximately one in ten children in the US are diagnosed with one of these disorders each year.
What Causes These Disorders?
A lack of Dopamine causes ADHD and ADD. A shortage of Dopamine affects memory and attention.
Treating These Disorders
Over the last 50 years or so, doctors have been treating ADHD and ADD with psychostimulants.
The two most popular are Adderall and Ritalin. These drugs stimulate Dopamine production, but come along with a myriad of side effects and withdrawal symptoms including:
- Nervousness
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Aggression
- Psychosis
- Restlessness
- Headache
- Vision Problems
- Stomach ache
- Gastrointestinal Issues
- Dry Mouth
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Decreased Appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased Libido
- Insomnia
- Seizures
- Chest Pain
- Numbness, Tingling and Weakness
- Irregular Heart Beat
- Increased Heart Rate
- Increased Blood Pressure
- Palpitations
- Trouble Breathing
- Fainting
- Sweating
- Skin Rash
- Cold Hands and Feet
- Swelling of the Face, Lips, or Tongue
- Uncontrollable Behavior, Movements, or Sounds
- Weight Loss
How Can Medical Marijuana Help?
Research is ongoing, but marijuana appears to increase dopamine production. Furthermore, cannabis compounds can potentially correct the Dopamine deficiency. Cannabis can provide the mental slowdown required for concentration, make boring tasks more manageable and level out mood swings. It's important to point out that cannabis is also much safer than the prescriptions above. Researchers are extremely optimistic with current findings. As the medical marijuana movement continues to break down barriers, scientists will be able to better understand its effects on ADHD and ADD.
If you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, or exhibit any of the symptoms associated with these disorders, call us at (786) 224-4005 or schedule a free consultation online. Medical marijuana may be able to help you!
