Potencial terapêutico da cannabis sativa no tratamento de sintomas de crianças autistas: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

This article explores the therapeutic potential of Cannabis sativa, with a special focus on cannabidiol (CBD), for the treatment of symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children. ASD represents a complex and heterogeneous neuropsychiatric condition that affects social development, communication and behavior, and is often accompanied by comorbidities such as anxiety. Conventional treatments, although useful, have limitations in efficacy and safety, encouraging the search for complementary approaches. This study conducts a literature review on the effects of CBD on symptoms such as aggressiveness, repetitive behaviors, anxiety and communication difficulties in children with ASD. The methodology involved the selection of studies in databases such as PubMed and Scielo, prioritizing research with rigorous clinical design and pediatric samples. The results indicate that CBD can reduce disruptive behaviors and promote improvement in social interaction, with few reported side effects. It is concluded that, although promising, the use of CBD in children with ASD requires more longitudinal studies to consolidate its effectiveness and safety, in addition to standardizing ideal dosages.