This comprehensive course is divided into four key units, each offering a focused exploration of medicinal cannabis in managing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.
Unit 1: Overview of Neuropsychiatric Disorders and the Endocannabinoid System
Begin with an in-depth review of ASD, ADHD, OCD, and Tourette’s, exploring their overlapping symptoms and shared pathophysiology, including dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Understand how cannabinoid therapies may influence brain connectivity, inflammation, and neurological functioning to alleviate symptoms.
Unit 2: Evidence and Studies
This unit reviews clinical and observational studies on the use of CBD and THC for neuropsychiatric conditions. Highlighting findings from key research, it provides insights into the efficacy of various cannabinoid formulations, their impact on behaviours, and the role of the entourage effect in optimising treatment outcomes.
Unit 3: Treatment Protocols
Explore practical approaches to prescribing cannabinoid medicines, including dosing strategies for paediatric and adult populations. This unit emphasises a stepwise titration approach with CBD-dominant formulations (20:1 CBD:THC ratio) and discusses when and how to incorporate THC for conditions like Tourette’s and severe OCD. Ethical and legal considerations, as well as supportive therapies such as dietary modifications, are also covered.
Unit 4: Case Studies and Summary
Learn from detailed case studies that showcase real-world applications of cannabinoid therapies. These examples illustrate the personalisation of treatment plans, balancing THC and CBD ratios, and addressing the unique needs of patients with complex, comorbid presentations. The unit concludes with a summary of best practices for integrating medicinal cannabis into multidisciplinary care.
This course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge to assess, prescribe, and monitor medicinal cannabis therapies, enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families while adhering to ethical and clinical standards.
This course is designed for GPs and is also suitable for all degree qualified medical professionals.