European Congress of Psychiatrists Presents Meta-Analysis of Benefits of CBD in Autism

Integrating plant-based cannabidiol/cannabigerol into autism treatment plans could revolutionize the way clinicians treat ASD. For families struggling with behavioral challenges and limited therapeutic options, CBD / CBG could be a viable, evidence-based alternative to traditional treatments. Therapy cannabinoid food products or topical agents provide real benefits in managing ASD symptoms, particularly in improving social skills and reducing disruptive behavior. With their favorable safety profile and multi-symptom effects, plant-derived cannabidiol and cannabigerol may become a cornerstone in personalized treatment of autism.

A meta-analysis presented at the European Congress of Psychiatry in April 2025 shows that the use of cannabinoid therapy can lead to significant positive effects on the social behavior of children with autism, as well as a reduction in inappropriate behavior in adolescents diagnosed with this disorder.

A large systematic review summarized data from three randomized, placebo-controlled trials involving 276 participants aged 5 to 21 years, with a mean age of 10.5 years. Each study assessed the efficacy and safety of plant cannabidiol extracts in treating autism symptoms. The starting dose was 1 mg/kg per day, gradually increasing to 10 mg/kg per day depending on the patient’s tolerance to cannabidiol. 

The review presents the following findings:

•             Improved social response: Participants taking the plant-derived cannabidiol ( CBD ) showed moderate but significant improvements in social interaction skills;

•             reduction in aggressive behavior: studies have shown a statistically significant reduction in such types of deviant behavior as aggression, hyperactivity and irritability;

•             anxiety relief: cannabidiol has been shown to help reduce anxiety levels, a common problem among people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD);

•             improved sleep quality: although the improvement in sleep was not statistically significant, there was a definite positive trend;

•             Safety profile: CBD therapy was well tolerated. The incidence of side effects was comparable to that in the placebo group.

The results indicate that plant-derived cannabidiol has significant potential as an adjunctive treatment for ASD, particularly in the treatment of behavioral and emotional symptoms.

Commentary from experts of the Association “Ukrainian Industrial Hemp”

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 children worldwide. Characterized by difficulties in communication, emotional expression, and repetitive behaviors, ASD often poses significant challenges to individuals and their families. Although several treatment strategies exist, many have limited success. Current research indicates that plant-derived cannabidiol is a potential alternative therapy that may help reduce the core symptoms of ASD. The rationale for using cannabidiol in the treatment of autism is that it interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood, behavior, and neurodevelopment. 

Traditional treatments for autism spectrum disorders typically include behavioral therapy, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. However, it is important to note that such interventions are not effective for all people and often result in unwanted side effects. In contrast, CBD therapy is a non-invasive and well-tolerated alternative that simultaneously addresses multiple symptoms of ASD.

The hallmark of plant cannabidiol is its broad spectrum of therapeutic action. By targeting inflammation, anxiety, sleep regulation, and neurochemical imbalances, CBD helps restore harmony to the developing brains of children and adolescents with ASD.

In Ukraine, there is local experience in using cannabidiol and cannabigerol ( CBG ) of plant origin in solving a number of problems related to the treatment of ASD, including in young patients. Based on this experience, it can be concluded that Integrating plant-based cannabidiol/cannabigerol into autism treatment plans could revolutionize the way clinicians approach ASD treatment. For families struggling with behavioral challenges and limited therapeutic options, CBD / CBG may offer a viable, evidence-based alternative to traditional treatments. Therapy cannabinoid food products or means for local use provides real benefits in managing ASD symptoms, particularly in improving social skills and reducing disruptive behavior. With a favorable safety profile and multi-symptom effects, plant-derived cannabidiol and cannabigerol may become a cornerstone in personalized treatment of autism.

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