NYU Langone’s Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is seeking participants for a study on the benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) in children with co-occurring autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

There is currently no treatment for autism spectrum disorder, but research suggests that CBD, if taken consistently for several weeks, may improve social difficulties, as well as common symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and sleep problems.

Our researchers in child psychiatry and neurology at NYU Langone are studying whether CBD may benefit children and teens with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, and what problems might be most improved as the effects of the medication build up.

Cannabidiol for Children with Autism and ADHD Study Details

CBD is a compound of the cannabis plant that does not produce intoxicating effects and has been well tolerated by children and adolescents with relatively low side effects.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

• children and adolescents ages 7 to 17 years old
• children and adolescents with a diagnosis of both autism spectrum disorder and ADHD
• children and adolescents who have fluent speech and broadly average intellectual functioning

What to Expect

Children and adolescents will be given CBD to examine the benefits and side effects. Our team of clinicians will regularly monitor participants’ reaction to CBD. Families must adhere to the medication regimen and attend virtual visits or visits in the clinic every 2 weeks for in-person assessments. The study lasts about 10 weeks.

Contact Us

To learn more about the study or to enroll, please email csc.cbd4asd@nyulangone.org or call 212-404-3770.