Use of cannabinoids for anxiety management in pediatric dentistry in patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: The known effects of cannabinoids (CBD) consist of anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, antiepileptic, neuroprotective, analgesic and antitumor properties, which demonstrates its efficacy for the treatment of various psychiatric disorders.  This is why it could be used for the management of anxiety in dental care in pediatric patients with Autism spectrum disorder. Objective: The present study aims to answer the following question: Is the use of CBD effective for the management of anxiety in dental care in patients with Autism spectrum disorder? Literature review: A review of the literature was conducted. The search, conducted in 2024, limited the publication date to 10 years old. PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane and Epistemonikos databases were used. The terms used were: "Cannabinoids", "Autism spectrum disorder", "Dental care" and "Anxiety". Conclusion: The use of cannabinoids improves ASD symptoms, increasing the quality of life of patients and their caregivers, so it could be an alternative for the management of anxiety in dental care of ASD patients, leaving aside the treatment of symptoms with conventional drugs. Recommendations: However, studies are lacking and more clinical evidence is recommended for its use.