From the Guidelines
You should not rely solely on CBD full spectrum oil to treat your child's tics and anxiety, and instead consider evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication, as recommended by the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 1. While some preliminary research suggests CBD might reduce anxiety and potentially help with tic disorders, the safety profile of CBD in children isn't fully understood, and full spectrum products contain small amounts of THC which may not be appropriate for children. Key points to consider include:
- The lack of established dosing guidelines for children with tics
- Potential side effects such as drowsiness, diarrhea, and changes in appetite
- Possible interactions with other medications your child might be taking
- The importance of comprehensive, evidence-based assessment to enhance treatment outcomes, as emphasized in the clinical practice guideline for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with anxiety disorders 1 Before trying CBD, consider exploring evidence-based treatments for tics and anxiety, such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication
- Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT)
- Habit reversal therapy
- Medications like clonidine or guanfacine, which have more established safety and efficacy profiles for pediatric tic disorders. It is essential to consult a doctor first to determine the best course of treatment for your child's specific needs, as successful treatment is a collaborative effort among all involved parties with well-defined roles and responsibilities 1.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Tic Disorders
- The treatment of tic disorders depends on the severity of the tics, the distress they cause, and the effects they have on daily activities 2.
- For tics of moderate severity, clonidine and guanfacine have a reasonable safety profile and are considered as first-line medications 2, 3.
- Behavioral therapies, such as habit reversal therapy (HRT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP), are also effective in treating tic disorders 4, 5.
Use of CBD Oil for Tic Disorders
- There is no mention of CBD oil as a treatment option for tic disorders in the provided studies.
- The studies suggest that medication and behavioral therapy are the primary treatment options for tic disorders 2, 3, 4, 5.
Anxiety and Tic Disorders
- Comorbid disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder occur in more than 50% of patients with tic disorders 2.
- Treatment should be aimed at the most troubling symptom, which may include anxiety 2.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety and depression in youth, and may be used in combination with medication 6.