ced pexels 8877103

Cannabinoids in Children: Clinical Evidence Review

Clinical Takeaway

Clinical evidence on cannabinoid use in children spans 276 studies across interventional, observational, and survey designs, reflecting a growing but still evolving body of research. The living systematic review format allows findings to be continuously updated as new data emerge, which is especially important given the rapid expansion of pediatric cannabis research. Clinicians should interpret current findings cautiously, as the evidence base remains heterogeneous and long-term safety data in children are still limited.

Cannabinoids in Children: Clinical Evidence Review

#3 Cannabinoids for Medical Purposes in Children: A Living Systematic Review.

Citation: Chhabra Manik et al.. Cannabinoids for Medical Purposes in Children: A Living Systematic Review.. Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992). 2025. PMID: 40437694.

Study type: Journal Article, Systematic Review  |  Topic area: Autism  |  CED Score: 13

Design: 5 Journal: 0 N: 2 Recency: 2 Pop: 3 Human: 1 Risk: 0

Methodological Considerations:

  • Small sample — underpowered for subgroup analysis

Abstract: AIM: We developed a living systematic review (LSR) that will continuously map the safety and reported benefit data related to cannabinoid use for medical purposes in children. METHODS: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to April 2023. Studies involving at least one child  20% studies) in studies enrolling children were somnolence, diarrhoea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. CONCLUSION: These findings will continue to be updated to inform practice and reveal knowledge gaps for future research.

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