Can You Get a Medical Card with ADHD?
Medical marijuana and ADHD is an area of growing interest, with many patients curious about cannabis as a way to manage symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity, and restlessness. While some research and patient reports suggest cannabis compounds may help improve focus and calm overactive thoughts, the science is still developing and results can vary widely. So, can you get a medical card for ADHD? This page explores what is currently known about the potential role of medical marijuana in ADHD, including how it compares with traditional treatments, possible risks, and what options patients may have.
Medical Marijuana vs. Traditional ADHD Medications
Traditional ADHD medications like Adderall, Ritalin, and other stimulants work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, helping improve focus and reduce impulsivity. These medications have decades of research supporting their effectiveness.
Medical marijuana works differently. THC activates the brain’s reward system and releases dopamine, while CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to help regulate various brain functions. Some adults with ADHD report that cannabis helps with symptoms traditional medications miss, particularly restlessness, hyperactivity, and mental frustration.
However, research shows mixed results. While 88% of cannabis users in one study reported improved restlessness and 80% noted reduced hyperactivity with acute use, the perceived benefits dropped significantly with chronic use, only 35% reported overall improvement. Additionally, 67% experienced worsened memory, and 43% noted increased inattention.
The dependency risk also differs significantly. While ADHD stimulant medications carry some risk of dependence, medical marijuana presents its own concerns. Studies show that 33-38% of teens with cannabis use disorder also have ADHD, and among adults seeking treatment for cannabis use disorder, 34-46% have ADHD. This suggests people with ADHD may be particularly vulnerable to developing problematic cannabis use patterns.
Many patients find success combining approaches, using prescription ADHD medication alongside medical marijuana for specific symptoms like sleep issues or medication side effects. However, this should only be done under professional medical supervision, as interactions between cannabis and ADHD medications haven’t been extensively studied.
As we continue to study the marijuana plant, the better we understand the potential benefits it holds. Specifically, the plant’s medicinal value reveals itself more every day. Today, we’re taking a closer look into the connection that medical marijuana and ADHD present. Can you get a medical card for ADHD? Is weed good for it? Are sativas or indicas better?
Don’t worry: we’re answering all these questions and more down below. Soon, you’ll be more than familiar with the unique, beneficial relationship between medical marijuana and ADHD. Let’s get started.
Does Weed Help ADHD?
So, does weed help with ADHD? The science here is still a bit muddy. Some claim that cannabis may have adverse effects on those with this attention deficit disorder, while other studies overwhelmingly claim otherwise. In a survey conducted on online reports of cannabis usage for ADHD, the researchers discovered that 25% of consumers found the plant’s benefits therapeutic.
Specifically, people are finding that weed helps symptoms of ADHD like focus, hyperactivity, and racing or inappropriate thoughts. Knowing cannabis’s effect on the brain, these results make sense.
When consumed, the cannabinoids within cannabis travel throughout the body and into the brain. Once there, they work to regulate any imbalances and ensure your endocannabinoids work just as they should. If any neurons are over-firing — like what happens with hyperactivity — weed’s cannabinoids function to calm this response. Thus, your body also relaxes.
This calmed brain allows for the ability to focus better, enhancing concentration and preventing you from having any extreme or inappropriate responses. For those with anger management problems and ADHD, weed appears to significantly help those think through their responses and better regulate rage.
Weed gets better and cheaper once you’ve got the card.
The Risks of Medical Marijuana and ADHD
However, it’s essential to keep in mind the potential risks between medical marijuana and ADHD. If an adolescent consumes cannabis, this may have significant effects on cognitive development as they age. Along with this, it may exacerbate mental disorders like anxiety and depression.
You should note that these risks are primarily associated with THC — not CBD. For children with ADHD, CBD is a safe, non-intoxicating option that likely won’t result in any harsh side effects. Adults, on the other hand, shouldn’t see many issues with cannabis use. Once the brain is fully developed, these risks are lower.
So, does weed help ADHD? Yes, it can, but there are always risks to be aware of.
CBD vs. THC for ADHD
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive component that produces the “high” associated with marijuana. For ADHD symptoms, THC may help with hyperactivity, restlessness, and racing thoughts by activating the brain’s reward system and releasing dopamine. Since people with ADHD typically have lower dopamine levels, THC can feel particularly rewarding, which is both its potential benefit and its primary risk.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and doesn’t produce a high, making it non-addictive. Research suggests CBD may be the most beneficial component for ADHD symptoms, particularly for managing anxiety and improving focus without intoxication. A 2020 study found that adults with ADHD who took higher doses of CBD components reduced their ADHD medication intake, though the study was small.
Some patients benefit from products containing both cannabinoids, taking advantage of the “entourage effect,” the theory that various cannabis compounds work synergistically to enhance benefits while reducing negative effects. However, experts cannot yet recommend an optimal CBD:THC ratio for ADHD, as more clinical trials are needed.
For adolescents with ADHD, CBD-only products are strongly recommended. Research shows THC can significantly affect cognitive development in young people and may worsen mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Once the brain is fully developed (typically around age 25), these risks decrease.
One critical consideration is that chronic THC use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can increase the risk of cannabis use disorder, particularly concerning for people with ADHD who already face higher vulnerability to substance use problems. CBD, being non-addictive, doesn’t carry this same risk.
Can I Use Edibles for ADHD?
Regarding medical marijuana and ADHD, a lot of people wonder if you can use edibles for ADHD? Of course you can!
Marijuana edibles are tasty treats that brands have infused with concentrations of cannabis. This creates a potent, long-lasting cannabis experience that’s great for providing prolonged effects. These effects tend to last for hours, which is much longer than your typical cannabis product.
When looking for the right edible for ADHD, always start with a low dose and be patient. As we mentioned, edibles are highly potent, and taking too much can sometimes cause an unpleasant experience. So, begin with just a small part of your edible — usually around 5 mg. — and wait two hours. With this, you’ll be able to see how the product affects you fully.
You can find indica, sativa, and hybrid edibles at your local dispensary. Take the time to find the strain that most appeals to you and provides the effects you and your ADHD require. Then, see if there’s an edible in this strain! (There’s a good chance there will be.)
Managing ADHD Medication Side Effects With Medical Marijuana
One significant but often overlooked use of medical marijuana for ADHD is managing the uncomfortable side effects of conventional ADHD medications. Many people with ADHD struggle with medication side effects that can be as disruptive as the ADHD symptoms themselves.
Common Side Effects Cannabis May Address
Research shows that among ADHD patients using cannabis specifically to treat medication side effects, approximately 82% found that cannabis improved loss of appetite, one of the most common and troublesome side effects of stimulant medications. About 67% reported cannabis improved sleep problems caused by their ADHD medication.
Stimulant medications often suppress appetite throughout the day, leading to inadequate nutrition and weight loss. The evening “rebound” effect can also cause irritability, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.
For some patients, using medical marijuana for ADHD in the evening helps counteract these effects, allowing them to eat properly and sleep well without interfering with their daytime medication.
Can I Get Medical Marijuana for ADHD?
Unfortunately, no state in the US explicitly states ADHD as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a medical marijuana card for ADHD. Let’s explain.
ADHD comes with varying symptoms that can be debilitating. Many states in the US allow the use of marijuana for debilitating medical conditions that hinder your quality of life. Because of this, it’s entirely possible to utilize the symptoms of your ADHD to get a medical marijuana card in your state. As long as you sit down with a qualified physician and explain your ailments and complications, there’s a good chance you can still obtain an MMJ card.
If you’re confused as to how all this works, don’t be! The process is simpler than you might think.
Take the next step toward relief—book your online evaluation today and see how easy it is to get your medical marijuana card for ADHD with Elevate Holistics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Surrounding Marijuana & ADHD
What is ADHD?
ADHD is short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and it affects over 8% of all children. In fact, it’s the most common mental disorder in children currently. Those with ADHD struggle to pay attention for long periods, have problems with impulsivity, and usually experience hyperactivity. All of this together creates an almost impossible environment for someone to sit still and focus in. Thus, for children with ADHD, things like school — studying, homework, sitting all day — is a much more challenging task than it may be for those without the disorder.
There are ways to treat ADHD, especially in children. It is important to note that ADHD does affect a small percentage of adults, as well. So, the disorder isn’t exclusive to young children; it just primarily presents during this time. In terms of treatments, you can turn to behavioral therapies, medications, and even lifestyle changes. All of these choices can help regulate ADHD-caused behaviors and allow for a calmer, more focused mindset.
What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
In children, the symptoms of ADHD are going to be unique to each diagnosis. However, there are a few common symptoms of ADHD to look out for if you think your children may have the disorder. These symptoms include the following:
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- Inability to sit still
- Excessive talking or making noise
- Excessive fidgeting
- Lack of concentration or focus
- Lack of impulse control
- Interrupting conversations
- Lack of organization
- Little to no concept of danger
ADHD is problematic because, for children, some of these behaviors are perfectly normal. However, when these behaviors continue, and your child doesn’t improve or learn from them, you should start being concerned. If your kiddo is demonstrating any of the above symptoms, have a genuine conversation with your doctor.
Sativa or Indica for ADHD?
When it comes to finding medical marijuana for ADHD, which is better: sativa or indica strains?
Sativa strains tend to be extra stimulating, offering boosts in mood and creativity. These types of products tend to be best for those who are generally on the calmer side and struggle to find motivation. Because of this, most people wouldn’t recommend super-strong sativa strains for those with ADHD. Instead, indicas and hybrids tend to be the best option.
Indica strains are quite different from sativas. Indicas’ properties are much more soothing and sedative than sativas, keeping you more focused on one task at hand — instead of many. This makes indicas ideal for those with ADHD. They’re calming, gentle, and incredibly supportive. Many people find that their overall stress and anxiety levels are lower, and they can fully relax. For those who struggle to wind down when needed, or if you cannot sit still, turn to an indica for its “in-da-couch” characteristics.
However, at the end of the day, everybody’s preference is different. Some may find that their ADHD best reacts to sativa strains, while others may fall in love with a balanced hybrid. You just have to try it for yourself to see what your body enjoys most.
What are Good Indica Strains for ADHD?
9 Pound Hammer: This heavy-hitting indica strain is a hybrid of Gooberry, Hells OG, and Jack the Ripper. It has an earthy flavor profile with notes of lemon and pine, and is known to be intensely relaxing. Its medical benefits are useful for treating stress, depression, insomnia, pain relief, muscle spasms, and even ADHD.
Afghan Kush: A pure indica strain originating from Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountains. It has a pungent aroma with notes of skunk and earthiness that create a pleasant smell when smoked. It’s known to produce calming effects that soothe both the mind and body and is beneficial for treating anxiety, depression, nausea as well as ADHD symptoms.
Granddaddy Purple (GDP): This potent indica strain was created by crossing Purple Urkle x Big Bud strains together. It has a sweet grape aroma and a musky flavor profile with hints of berries and grapes when smoked. Its powerful sedative effects can help suppress restlessness in patients suffering from ADHD while also helping reduce headaches and chronic pain.
Northern Lights: Another strong indica strain created by crossbreeding Thai Sativa x Afghani Indica strains together. It emits an earthy sweet aroma that carries to its taste when smoked or vaporized which can be very helpful for calming down racing thoughts associated with ADHD symptoms without feeling overly drowsy or lethargic afterwards.
Golden Goat: A hybrid cross between Hawaiian Romulan X Island Sweet Skunk strains that produces relaxing effects known to have calming properties on the mind as well as the body which can be helpful for relieving stress in those suffering from ADHD symptoms . Its flavor profile includes sweet lemony undertones making it pleasant to smoke or vape for those looking for herbal relief from their conditions.
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