A systematic review of 20 studies found that the relationship between cannabis and ADHD is complex, with potential risks and limited evidence of benefit, highlighting the need for more rigorous research.
Read this if you have ADHD and are considering or currently using cannabis to manage your symptoms.
20 studiesNumber of studies meeting criteria in this systematic review of cannabis and ADHD
What the researchers found
After screening 136 initial studies, researchers selected 20 articles (two non-randomized trials, one cross-sectional study, one meta-analysis, and 16 observational cohorts). The review found that ADHD patients use cannabis more frequently than the general population, often for self-medication purposes. While some patients report subjective symptom improvement, the evidence base is largely observational. The review emphasizes the potential for cannabis use disorder and executive dysfunction alongside any perceived benefits.
Why it matters
Many people with ADHD self-medicate with cannabis despite limited research supporting this practice. This systematic review provides a needed evidence summary for both patients and clinicians navigating this increasingly common clinical scenario.
The numbers in context
- 136 studies initially identified
- 20 studies selected after screening
- Study types: 2 non-randomized trials, 1 cross-sectional, 1 meta-analysis, 16 observational cohorts
- Databases searched: PubMed, PMC, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect
- Publication period: 10 years prior to January 2023
How the study worked
Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines. Searched PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect for studies published within 10 years of January 2023. Applied inclusion-exclusion criteria and quality assessment techniques.
Who was studied
People with ADHD across multiple study populations
What this study cannot tell us
The included studies were predominantly observational, limiting causal conclusions. The search strategy may not have captured all relevant literature. The heterogeneity of study designs makes synthesis difficult. No randomized controlled trials of cannabis as ADHD treatment were available.
How to read the evidence
Systematic review of predominantly observational studies. Provides an evidence overview but is limited by the quality and heterogeneity of underlying research.
When this study was published
Published in 2023. Covers the most recent decade of research on cannabis and ADHD.
The bigger picture
Cannabis self-medication for ADHD is a growing phenomenon as both ADHD diagnosis rates and cannabis access increase. Until rigorous clinical trials are conducted, patients are essentially running uncontrolled experiments on themselves.
Questions still open
- Would a randomized controlled trial of cannabis for ADHD be ethical and feasible?
- Which cannabis compounds (THC, CBD, or combinations) might address specific ADHD symptoms?
- Does cannabis use worsen executive function deficits that are already impaired in ADHD?
Read the original research
Evaluation of Efficacy of Cannabis Use in Patients With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review.
Cureus, 15(6), e40969
Citation
Dhamija, Divyanshu; Bello, Adedamola O; Khan, Asma A; Gutlapalli, Sai Dheeraj; Sohail, Mehvish; Patel, Priyansh A; Midha, Sidharth; Shukla, Surmai; Mohammed, Lubna. (2023). Evaluation of Efficacy of Cannabis Use in Patients With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review.. Cureus, 15(6), e40969. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.40969