Paediatric CBD: A Comprehensive Guide

---

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

---

---

Introduction

The use of CBD (cannabidiol) as an alternative treatment for various medical conditions has gained significant popularity in recent years. As more research unfolds, the potential benefits of CBD for children are also coming to light. In this article, we will discuss paediatric CBD, its potential benefits, the conditions it can help manage, and the safety of its use. So, let's dive in and explore this exciting topic!

---

Understanding CBD

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural plant part found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another well-known thing found in cannabis, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects, meaning it won't get you or your child “high.”

CBD vs. THC

The main difference between CBD and THC is their impact on the human brain. Big or small. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects often associated with marijuana. On the other hand, CBD has been found to possess various therapeutic properties without causing any of these effects. This makes it a much better option for paediatric use.

Without getting too scientific, CBD and THC may share the same chemical composition, but their atomic arrangements are different.

Both of them are considered cyclic compounds, which means one or more of the atoms in the compounds connect to form a ring. CBD has an open ring, while THC has a closed ring.

Why does this matter? It's this case that means they interact differently with the endocannabinoid system's receptors.

---

Paediatric CBD – Why Consider CBD for Children?

As we learn more about CBD, it's becoming apparent that it may offer several health benefits for children. Parents and medical professionals are exploring CBD as a potential alternative or adjunct treatment for various paediatric conditions, particularly those that don't respond well to conventional treatments.

A 2019 Gallup poll of more than 2,500 Americans showed that 14% of them use CBD products, mostly to treat pain, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. For kids, it's much harder to find statistics, but there are Facebook groups with thousands of members where parents talk about giving CBD to their kids for things like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In April, a magazine about cannabis released the results of a survey of more than 500 parents. The survey found that 40 percent of the parents had given CBD products to their children to help with autism-related behaviours.

CBD and kids haven't been the subject of much-controlled studies. There is only one CBD-based drug that is allowed for any age group, and that is for children with rare types of epilepsy. There are some hopeful signs, but not much proof yet, that the compound could also help with other conditions in children, such as autism and anxiety.

Potential Benefits

Research on paediatric CBD is still in its early stages, but preliminary findings suggest that it may help alleviate symptoms associated with various health conditions. Some of the potential benefits include reduced seizures, improved behaviour, and decreased anxiety levels.

CBD Guides

You can also check out our page dedicated to CBD Guides. You will find everything you need to know about CBD. CBD for pets, CBD for children, or even how to make your own CBD business.

CBD Guides

---

Conditions Treated with Paediatric CBD

Epilepsy

One of the most well-known applications of CBD in paediatrics is its use in treating epilepsy, specifically drug-resistant forms like Dravet-syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Clinical trials have shown that CBD can significantly reduce seizure frequency in children with these conditions.

Autism

CBD may also hold promise for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies suggest that CBD can help improve communication, social interactions, and reduce repetitive behaviours in children with ASD. However, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common issue faced by children, and research suggests that CBD may help alleviate symptoms by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. However, more studies are required to establish the ideal dosage and administration methods for paediatric anxiety.

ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is another condition that may potentially benefit from CBD treatment. Although research in this area is limited, anecdotal evidence from parents suggests that CBD may help improve focus and reduce impulsivity in children with ADHD.

Safety and Side Effects

Generally, CBD is considered safe and well-tolerated. However, some children may experience side effects, including drowsiness, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a CBD regimen for your child, as they can help determine the appropriate dosage and monitor for any adverse reactions.

More from our blog:

• Is CBD safe for children? – What you need to know!
• Can you give CBD to your child?
• CBD oil for ADHD?
• CBD for sleep – but does it work?
• 6 things you should know about CBD oil for Pets!

---

Dosage and Administration

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to CBD dosing for children. The ideal dosage depends on factors like the child's weight, age, and the condition being treated. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it while monitoring the child's response is typically the recommended approach. Again, it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to ensure the best results and minimize potential risks.

Learn more about CBD dosage here

Legal Considerations

The legal status of CBD varies from country to country and, in some cases, from state to state within the United States. In general, CBD products derived from hemp (containing less than 0.2% THC) are legal in most states. However, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations before purchasing or using CBD products for your child.

---

Choosing the Right CBD Product for Your Child

Selecting a high-quality, safe, and effective CBD product is crucial for ensuring the best possible results for your child. Look for products that:

1. Are sourced from organically grown hemp.
2. Have undergone third-party lab testing to verify potency and purity.
3. Are free of harmful contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents.
4. Clearly indicate the CBD content and dosage recommendations on the label.

Conclusion

Paediatric CBD holds promise as a potential alternative or adjunct treatment for various health conditions in children. While research is still in its early stages, the findings suggest that CBD may help manage epilepsy, autism, anxiety, and ADHD. However, it's crucial to consult with a doctor before starting a CBD regimen for your child and to choose high-quality, tested CBD products.

---

FAQs

---

The Real Paediatric CBD

---