Attention-deficit disorder (ADD)

Attention-deficit disorder medical cannabis treatment

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD), more commonly known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects a person’s ability to stay focused and can therefore have a great impact on day-to-day life. There are options available to help manage the impact ADD symptoms can have on everyday life, and recently, alternative treatments have been gaining wider interest. Since 2018, medical cannabis has been available on prescription for patients with ADD who have been unable to manage their needs using traditional treatments, and we’re here to offer more information, if it’s something you’re curious to learn more about.

Am I eligible?

3 to 4%

3 to 4% of the UK population have Attention Deficit Disorder, and the male to female diagnosis ratio is 3:1.

85%

85% of UK adults are unaware medical cannabis can be prescribed to help manage ADD symptoms.

1 in 4

1 in 4 in qualitative analysis say cannabis plays a positive role in ADD symptom management.

Over ⅔

Over ⅔ of UK adults would consider medical cannabis treatments if their Dr recommended them.

Symptoms

Appearing forgetful

Difficulty concentrating

Feeling fidgety / excessive physical movement

Hyperactivity

Impulsiveness

Inattentiveness

Mood swings

Poor organisation

Restlessness

Short attention span

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, please speak with your GP to find out more.

Treatment options:

When treating or managing ADD, medications may be prescribed to help calm impulsivity, or aid concentration and focus. Different types of therapy can also be recommended, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, which is designed to help people to develop the tools they need to alter how they behave in certain situations.

Atomoxetine

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Guanfacine

Lisdexamfetamine

Methylphenidate (Ritalin)

Psychoeducation

Find out if you may be eligible for medical cannabis ADD treatments here
Am I eligible?

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A word from our specialist

"Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often severely impacting daily functioning. Emerging research suggests that medicinal cannabis may help manage symptoms by interacting with the endocannabinoid system to improve focus, reduce hyperactivity, and promote calmness, offering a potential complementary approach to traditional treatments."

Dr Vijay Delaffon

Psychiatry

Find out if you may be eligible for medical cannabis ADD treatments here
Am I eligible?

Articles on Attention-deficit disorder (add)

28. 03. 2024

Understanding medical cannabis and ADHD

An estimated 2.6 million people are living with ADHD in the UK and diagnoses are on the rise as general awareness of neurodivergent disorders grows. At the same time, many patients are reporting benefits from medical cannabis, with ADHD now one of the most common conditions for which it is prescribed.

13. 09. 2023

The science behind medical cannabis for ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is believed to arise from a complex interplay of genetics, brain structure, and function. While individuals with ADHD often demonstrate high intelligence and creativity, they may encounter challenges in information processing, sustaining attention, and regulating impulsive behaviour.

17. 08. 2023

Can CBD help reduce the symptoms of ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition that affects cognition, perception, attention, and impulsivity. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorders. Although pharmaceutical medications are often prescribed to manage ADHD symptoms and behavioural therapy helps patients develop coping strategies, many are seeking alternative treatments.

Can I get medical cannabis for ADD symptom management in the UK?

Yes. In the UK, if conventional or traditional options have proven ineffective at meeting your needs and managing your symptoms, medical cannabis may be deemed a suitable option for you, and it can be prescribed by private medical cannabis clinics in the UK like Releaf. 

Although research is still ongoing, medical cannabis and cannabis-based treatments have shown promising potential in ADD symptom management because of their ability to promote relaxation, and a sense of calmness. This can, in turn, have a knock-on effect on other symptoms that hinder day-to-day activities. 

According to self-reported data, in a qualitative analysis of around 400 online discussion threads, 25% said they felt medical cannabis was an effective and therapeutic tool in managing their ADHD symptoms, and cited improvements in their focus and concentration. 

However, it is important to note that medical cannabis is not a suitable option for every person with ADD, and the same analysis found that around 8% said cannabis intensified their symptoms. This shows why it’s important that medical cannabis ADD treatment plans are tailored to each individual, and, that they are carefully supervised by qualified healthcare professionals to ensure patients only receive the best, and effective care for them. 

At Releaf, we can prescribe medical cannabis, or cannabis oil, for ADD symptom management to patients who have found their previous treatments to be unsuccessful, or ineffective, at meeting their needs or managing their symptoms. 

To find out if you could be eligible for a medical cannabis consultation, or medical cannabis ADD treatments, get in touch with us today. 

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