Cannabinoids as Modulatory Agents in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder – Aung Din
Apple Keynote Slides: https://www.dropbox.com/s/cu7kug53ajf2rrv/Autism%20One%202018%20Cannabinoids%20%26%20Neuromodulation.key?dl=0
Autism spectrum disorder, ASD, is a complex multi-system condition involving neurological, gastrointestinal, immune, and other biological functions. ASD is incompletely understood and also remains inadequately treated. Many of the current pharmaceutical treatments have associated side effects which further complicate the clinical picture: benzodiazepines, neuroleptics, CNS stimulants, and antidepressants.
What is obvious in ASD is that there is imbalance and dysfunction within the neurochemical and electrical systems of the brain. The human endocannabinoid system, ECS, acts to modulate many aspects of human function; these include neurotransmission, inflammatory response, immune function, cellular homeostasis, among others. Modulation is defined as “changing or adjusting things within a system so they exist or function in balanced or proper fashion, or amount…” Cannabinoids are uniquely different from other neuro-active compounds in that they act to modulate biological processes. In contrast, pharmaceutical compounds commonly used to treat symptoms of ASD either block or stimulate specfic physiological processes.
A significant proportion of patients with ASD experience seizures, estimated at over 30%; and are on anticonvulsants. Many also suffer from episodic neuropsychiatric symptoms; such as impulsive behavior, agitation and anger outbursts, transient inattention and focusing problems, episodes of detachment, and focal motor symptoms such as tics, twitches, and jerks. As the brain works through electro-chemical mechanisms, seizures as well these episodic phenomena may be reflected on EEG. CBD, or cannabidiol, the non-hallucinogenic component of cannabis/marijuana has properties of treating seizures and stabilizing abnormal brain electrical activity through “neuro-modulation.”
This presentation will discuss the mechanisms by which cannabinoids exert therapeutic benefits; in particular, treating seizures and other episodic symptoms seen with ASD. Case studies with before and after treatment EEG tracings will be presented. The revolutionary nature of non-systemic Direct Effects™ cannabinoid therapy and its particular pertinence to pediatric age patients will also be discussed.
Ronald Aung-Din, MD
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