Attention deficit hyperactivity discheckout (ADHD) and CBD

What is ADHD?

ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Discheckout.

It is also referred to by the acronym ADHD: attention deficit hyperactivity discheckout. It is a neurological condition that manifests itself either through:

• inattention : either the difficulty in concentrating, in being attentive, and therefore in carrying out tasks, even unimportant ones, to completion;
• Impulsivity : characterized by extreme impatience and/or abrupt reactions;
• hyperactivity : manifested by the need to move incessantly.

 

This discheckout usually occurs during childhood and more rarely in adulthood. It mainly affects children, about 5% of children and 2.5% of adults.[1]

Here is the breakdown of the three symptoms in diagnosed children: Attention deficit (approximately 47%), hyperactivity and impulsivity (approximately 36%), and a combination of all three (approximately 17%)2]

The origin of this discheckout:

Research places the origin of the discheckout mainly in hereditary or environmental factors: exposure to toxins during fetal life (consumption of tobacco, alcohol or drugs, lead poisoning, exposure to pesticides) [3], although it is difficult to establish a single cause for a neurological malformation, linked to abnormalities in brain development and/or a deficiency of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine or noradrenaline.

Treatments for attention deficit discheckouts

The French High Authority for Health recommends cognitive-behavioral therapies based on practical exercises to retrain attention.

Treatment can also involve medication (primarily methylphenidate). These are stimulants, designed to increase dopamine activity in the brain, and their side effects can include persistent insomnia1]

Of course, a healthy and regular diet, good sleep, reduced screen time and physical exercise are favorable to the good evolution and management of this discheckout.

 

The effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on attention deficit discheckouts

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a molecule derived from the hemp plant (cannabis sativa L.), just like THC, but it has the distinction of being devoid of psychotropic effects.

Numerous studies [4] have established a link between cannabinoids such as CBD and the body's natural endocannabinoid system (ECS), the latter being composed of various receptors which, once activated, play a role at the cellular level in many ways, including reducing pain, anxiety, or inflammation.

ADHD in brief

 

Clinical studies of the effects of CBD on ADHD

Although studies on CBD and ADHD [5] currently only aim to measure its impact on reducing the symptoms of this discheckout and the side effects of traditional medications, the initial results encourage further studies.

People with ADHD often have lower dopamine levels [6]. Several studies have shown that CBD increases and regulates dopamine levels [7]. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in important functions such as behavior, cognition, motivation, reward, sleep, and memory.

 

CBD and ADHD-related anxiety

One of the consequences of ADHD is anxiety (40% suffer from it), negative self-evaluation and low self-esteem [8]. However, a 2015 study [9] concludes that a simple dose of CBD significantly reduces anxiety, influencing the fear of public speaking for example.

Regarding the use of CBD in the case of post-traumatic stress in children, a 2016 study[10] concluded that CBD has a positive impact in children, but it is always recommended to consult the treating physician in these cases.

Precautions with CBD

Before taking any CBD, it is important to talk to your doctor, especially if you are taking any other medication.

As the WHO states: CBD is not risky and is generally well tolerated.[11]

However, although a CBD-containing medication has been approved for use in children (and adults): EPIDYOLEX, relatively few studies have been conducted with children.[12][10] As a precaution, we do not recommend CBD for children, especially infants.

CBD and hyperactivity

One of the symptoms of ADHD is sometimes hyperactivity. In a 2018 Israeli study [11] conducted on autistic children, some of whose symptoms are common to ADHD, 53 children and young adults (aged 4 to 22) took CBD oil for 66 days. The results showed that hyperactivity symptoms decreased in 68% of participants, remained unchanged in 29%, and increased in 3%. Temper outbursts decreased in 68% of subjects but increased in 9%.

CBD and sleep discheckouts inherent to ADHD:

According to a clinical study conducted in 2018, 25 to 50% of subjects with this disease suffer from significant sleep disturbances [13]. Thus, subjects either experience insomnia at night or suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness. In both cases, studies demonstrate that CBD has a positive impact in reducing these symptoms and improving the patient's comfort. [14]

In conclusion, further research is needed on theusaof CBD in relation to ADHD. Indeed, the problem is complex and appears to involve several interconnected factors, including a dopamine deficiency. Nevertheless, CBD has a positive influence on symptoms, making the discheckout more manageable for those affected.

 

Summary: What studies suggest about CBD

Key takeaways

• No studies have proven that CBD treats ADHD. Preliminary results suggest that CBD influences symptoms, but much more research is needed.
• CBD is non-psychotropic and generally well tolerated (WHO position).
• Do not give CBD to a child, whether they suffer from ADHD or not, without medical advice.
• Speak to your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you are currently undergoing treatment.

 

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How to take CBD oil

One of the most effective ways to take cannabidiol is in oil form*. Simply place a few drops directly under your tongue using the dropper for about 30 seconds. Although cannabidiol has no known side effects, everyone reacts differently to cannabinoids. Therefore, it is advisable to start with the lowest dose and gradually increase it until you experience relief.

 

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*Ingesting CBD is prohibited in France since May 15, 2026. For more information, we have written an article on this subject: CBD gummies, cookies, oils, capsules: the end of edibles scheduled for May?