Pediatricians and Cannabis for Kids: What Parents Ask

More parents are asking pediatricians about cannabis-based products for children. Pediatricians approach these questions cautiously because the risks and unknowns for children are significant.

Reasons Behind the Growing Demand

Specific medical conditions, along with parental advocacy and awareness, play a role in the growing trend of medical cannabis for kids.

Medical Conditions Behind the Demand

Parents ask about cannabis for conditions ranging from epilepsy, autism, and cancer to more common issues such as anxiety and ADHD. Epilepsy has the most research, and a prescription CBD medicine is FDA-approved to treat seizures linked to three rare conditions (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex) in patients 1 year of age and older. Research on autism is early, and claims about ADHD and anxiety in children rest mostly on anecdotes.

Parental Advocacy and Awareness Contributing to the Trend

Parental advocacy has played a big role in the rising demand for medical cannabis for kids. More and more parents are becoming informed and aware of alternative treatments available for their children’s conditions. They actively advocate for access to these treatments, challenging traditional medical norms and urging more research. This has significantly influenced the perception and increased interest in medical cannabis for pediatric treatments.

Risks of Medical Cannabis for Kids

Discussing the risks and considerations associated with its use is key. As with any medical treatment, cannabis use in kids has its potential downsides. The primary concern revolves around the impact of cannabis on the developing brains of children and adolescents, with some research suggesting potential detrimental effects on cognitive development and memory.

We don’t yet fully understand the long-term effects of medical cannabis use in the pediatric population, as most of the research thus far has been short-term. There is also the risk of potential misuse or dependency, particularly with teenagers. The lack of standardized dosing guidelines and the variable potency of cannabis products are other challenges for pediatricians.

Current Practices and Guidelines for Pediatricians Regarding Cannabis Treatment

Pediatricians are cautious about medical cannabis, given the mix of state and federal laws, the lack of comprehensive research, and the clinical and ethical considerations at hand.

Many cannabis products are not FDA-approved medicines, and their contents can vary. That is why pediatricians often discuss the risks, unknowns, and legal limits around cannabis with parents.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations Faced by Pediatricians

While pediatricians see a growing demand for medical cannabis for kids, they also face significant challenges and ethical considerations. With the science far from settled and the long-term effects on children’s development largely unknown, pediatricians are placed in an ethically challenging position.

There’s a pressing need for more research into the efficacy and safety of medical cannabis in children to inform clinical practice. Pediatricians are also grappling with how to handle situations where parents insist on medical cannabis use for conditions where it may not be indicated or beneficial.

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions

Many misconceptions exist about medical cannabis for children. A common one is the belief that children would experience a ‘high’ from medical cannabis. This notion arises from a lack of understanding that not all cannabis is the same and that medical cannabis, especially CBD-based products, is often non-psychoactive.

Another misconception is the idea that medical cannabis is a ‘miracle cure’ capable of treating any condition. This is far from the truth, and like any medication, the effectiveness of cannabis varies for each individual and condition. Striking a balance is important. While medical cannabis warrants exploration, it shouldn’t overshadow the need for a multifaceted treatment approach. We should view it as one tool within a comprehensive treatment plan, not a cure-all solution.

As pediatricians handle the growing demand for medical cannabis for children, Kind Seed Co supports clear education on the topic. Society’s perspective on medical cannabis for kids is gradually changing. Ensuring accurate information, prioritizing research, and fostering open communication are key to strong partnerships between pediatricians and parents.

Related reading: THC and CBD: What’s The Difference?, How to Prevent Weed Odor, Legal Disclaimer and Legal Requirements for Growing Weed Plants in Your State.