O USO DO CANABIDIOL NO MANEJO DA SINTOMATOLOGIA DO TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA (TEA)

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by impairments in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests, and is often accompanied by symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and seizure episodes. Conventional pharmacological interventions (primarily atypical antipsychotics, anxiolytics, and anticonvulsants) offer limited efficacy and can cause undesirable adverse effects. In this context, cannabidiol (CBD), a major non-psychedelic phytocannabinoid of Cannabis sativa, has been explored as a therapeutic alternative. This paper presents a systematic literature review of clinical studies evaluating the use of CBD in managing ASD symptoms, highlighting its benefits, adverse reactions, and future application prospects. Available evidence demonstrates significant improvements in behavioral parameters (such as reduced irritability and stereotypies) anxiety levels and seizure frequency, with a generally well-tolerated safety profile (somnolence and appetite changes being the most commonly reported adverse events). However, research is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous dosing regimens, and a lack of robust randomized trials. In Brazil, RDC nº 327/2019 regulates the prescription of CBD-based products but imposes strict requirements that hinder access. It is understood that cannabidiol shows promising potential as an adjuvant in the treatment of ASD, but it is essential to conduct larger and more standardized studies, as well as to advance regulations that enable its safe clinical use.