How can medical cannabis help manage sleep concerns due to ADHD

What is ADHD? 

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a common neurodevelopmental condition that primarily affects children, though it can continue into adulthood. It is estimated that around 2.6 million people in the UK are affected by this condition. ADHD is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.

Key Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD symptoms can be categorised into two main types: inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.

Inattention – Some symptoms include:

– Difficulty Sustaining Attention: Trouble focusing on tasks or play activities.
– Careless Mistakes: Often overlooks details and makes careless errors in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
– Listening Problems: Seems not to listen when spoken to directly.
– Difficulty Following Instructions: Fails to follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
– Organization Issues: Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
– Forgetfulness: Often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity-Impulsivity – Some symptoms include:

– Fidgeting: Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
– Leaving Seat: Leaves seat in situations where remaining seated is expected.
– Blurting Out: Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
– Difficulty Waiting: Has difficulty waiting their turn.
– Interrupting: Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).

How does ADHD affect sleep?

While the symptoms above are well-known, many people are less aware of the sleep disturbances that frequently accompany ADHD. Research indicates that between 50-75% of adults with ADHD experience various sleep problems, from insomnia to secondary sleep conditions.

How can medical cannabis help?

Medical cannabis has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, including its ability to aid in sleep. Here’s how medical cannabis might help alleviate sleep issues in individuals with ADHD:

Promoting Relaxation and Reducing Anxiety:

Medical cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD (cannabidiol), can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. By alleviating anxiety, which is often heightened in individuals with ADHD, cannabis can help ease the transition into sleep.

Regulating Sleep-Wake Cycles:

THC has been found to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep, potentially due to its sedative properties. However, the effects of THC on sleep are dose-dependent. Low to moderate doses of THC can help induce sleep and improve sleep continuity. CBD, on the other hand, is associated with promoting wakefulness during the day and reducing daytime sleepiness, thereby helping to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. A study discussed how cannabis can modulate the endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms and the sleep-wake cycle. This modulation can help align disrupted sleep patterns, making it easier for individuals to maintain a regular sleep schedule​.

How medical cannabis helped Mamedica patient Kris Witham 

Mamedica patient Kris Witham had been self-medicating with cannabis sourced on the illicit market for just under 15 years prior to his ADHD diagnosis. However, the impact of cannabis on his condition was “life-changing”.

After his ADHD diagnosis, he tried four traditional treatment methods: Ritalin, Elvanse, Melatonin, and talking therapy – none of these proved to be effective. After becoming a patient with Mamedica, Kris obtained a safe and legal medical cannabis prescription which he says helps him to sleep, focus, and relax.