Israeli Neurologist's Pioneering Research Explores Cannabis-Based Autism Therapy

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential use of cannabinoids as a therapeutic option for various medical conditions, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A recent article highlights the groundbreaking work of Dr. Adi Aran, a Pediatric Neurologist at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, Israel. Dr. Aran's research focuses on the use of cannabinoid-based therapy for children with ASD, and he is about to embark on a follow-up trial that could offer new hope to families affected by this condition.

The Autism-Cannabis Connection:

Dr. Adi Aran's journey into the world of cannabis-based therapy for autism began in 2014 during his tenure at Stanford University's Psychiatry Unit in California. He started by researching the connection between autism and epilepsy and observed promising results in children with both conditions. This initial spark led him to delve deeper into the potential benefits of cannabinoids for behavioral issues in children with ASD.

The First-Ever Clinical Trial:

In January 2017, after overcoming various objections, including religious concerns from some groups, Israel's Ministry of Health approved Dr. Aran's groundbreaking study. This trial marked the first-ever randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on cannabinoids for behavioral symptoms in children with ASD. It involved 150 patients aged 5 to 21 with low- to medium-functioning ASD.

Participants were divided into groups receiving different treatments, including a whole plant extract containing CBD and THC at a specific ratio, purified CBD and THC at the same ratio, or a placebo. The results were promising, with significant improvements observed in the groups receiving cannabinoid-based treatments.

The Follow-Up Trial:

Dr. Aran is now preparing for a follow-up trial, which will focus on children aged 4 to 12 years. This time, the study aims to combine the previous treatment with additional vitamins and components that may enhance its effectiveness. Although the exact composition of this "neuroprotective cocktail" remains confidential, Dr. Aran has indicated that each component has been individually tested and proven effective in children with autism.

The trial will span two years and is expected to cost approximately $250,000, funded by GCANRx (Greater Cannabis Company Inc), which has a licensing agreement with Shaare Zedek. The goal is to identify which children benefit the most from this treatment and determine the ideal components and concentrations for their needs.

Expert Opinions:

Pediatric specialists in the field, such as Dr. Eric Exelbert and Dr. Patricia Frye, emphasize the importance of Dr. Aran's research. They highlight the limitations of current pharmaceutical treatments for children with severe autism and the need for evidence-based scientific studies in this area. Dr. Frye, in particular, has seen remarkable improvements in her patients’ using combinations of cannabinoids, including CBD and CBG, to address core symptoms and comorbid conditions associated with autism.

Dr. Adi Aran's pioneering work in exploring cannabinoid-based therapy for children with autism offers hope to families seeking effective treatments for their loved ones. While challenges and ethical considerations remain, the potential benefits of this research cannot be ignored. As the follow-up trial begins, the medical community eagerly awaits the results, which may pave the way for more comprehensive and targeted therapies for individuals with ASD.

https://www.endocannabinoidmedicine.com/features/israeli-neurologist-launches-follow-up-trial-on-cannabinoid-based-therapy-for-children-with-autism/

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