Medical Cannabinoids in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Additional research is needed to evaluate the potential role of medical cannabinoids in children and adolescents, especially given increasing accessibility from state legalization and potential psychiatric and neurocognitive adverse effects identified from studies of recreational cannabis use.

Vaporized Cannabis Is Effective and Well-Tolerated in an Adolescent with Tourette Syndrome

“…In this case study, both the family’s report as well as the expert clinical ratings suggested that not only THC – as described earlier [8] – but also vaporized cannabis are effective in the reduction of tics and premonitory urges. Remarkably, even relatively high doses of THC were well tolerated and even improved concentration according to the patient’s report.…”

“…While there is increasing evidence that CBM is effective in the treatment of a variety of conditions in adult populations [7], only very little is known about efficacy and safety of CBM in children and adolescents [8]. In a recent systematic review, only 22 studies have been identified using CBM in minors, most commonly pure THC and cannabidiol [8].…”

“…In a recent systematic review, only 22 studies have been identified using CBM in minors, most commonly pure THC and cannabidiol [8]. To the best of our knowledge, this is not only the first case study reporting about beneficial effects of vaporized cannabis with high THC content in a boy with TS, but the first such report ever in a child.…”

Safety and efficacy of nabilone for acute chemotherapy‐induced vomiting prophylaxis in pediatric patients: A multicenter, retrospective review

“…Nonhematological adverse events recorded during each study chemotherapy block were described and graded based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) Version 4.03 . Particular attention was paid to identify drowsiness, dizziness, and euphoria since they have been previously reported to be associated with nabilone . All adverse events noted in patient charts that were attributed to nabilone by health care providers were included.…”

Medical cannabis for paediatric developmental–behavioural and psychiatric disorders

“…Some parents report that they give cannabis products to their children to help with their behaviour and increasingly, Australian parents of children with developmental disabilities and/or mental health disorders are asking their paediatricians if MC treatment is advisable and whether they can assist them in obtaining it for their child. The American Academy of Pediatrics has highlighted the need for further research into the therapeutic uses of cannabinoids in children and adolescents, a position supported by a recent systematic review …”