BudMed Bulletin for 17 Oct 2024

Next issue: Cannabis for Epilepsy

Introduction

What is Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and what are the symptoms?

Definition of PTSD: “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that's caused by an extremely stressful or terrifying event — either being part of it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.” Source

Symptoms of PTSD. “Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.” Generally, PTSD symptoms are grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions.” Source

Prevalence. According to The National Center for PTSD, “About 6 out of every 100 people (or 6% of the U.S. population) will have PTSD at some point in their lives.” Source

Research Overview

Improved PTSD Symptoms with Medical Cannabis. “Corresponding improvements in sleep were noticed with participants reporting increased duration of sleep hours, sleep quality, sleep efficiency, and total PSQI score. Likewise, negative affect and global mental health improved significantly at follow-up.” Source

Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol in Anxiety Disorders. “Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol Used in the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders in a PTSD Subpopulation” “Conclusions: Formulations of cannabis significantly improved anxiety, depression, fatigue, and the ability to participate in social activities in participants with anxiety disorders.” Source

Medical Cannabis for Combat PTSD. “Our findings show that total sleep score, subjective sleep quality, and sleep duration significantly improved (p < 0.01). Total PTSD symptom score and its subdomains (intrusiveness, avoidance, and alertness) showed improvement (p < 0.05).” Source

Cannabis Use and Its Impact on Depression and Suicidality in PTSD. “Does cannabis use modify the effect of post-traumatic stress disorder on severe depression and suicidal ideation?” “Conclusions: This study provides preliminary epidemiological evidence that cannabis use may contribute to reducing the association between post-traumatic stress disorder and severe depressive and suicidal states.” Source

Patient Testimony Videos

Meet Ross Reed, a former Marine and Police officer who’s getting relief from PTSD with medical cannabis. Watch the video Source

Meet Matt, an Afghanistan veteran getting relief from PTSD with medical cannabis. Watch the video Source

Meet Curtis and other combat veterans, all getting relief from PTSD with medical cannabis. Watch the video Source

Legal and Medical Recognition

Recently, the HHS, FDA, DEA and the National Institute, concluded a two year study on cannabis as a medicine. Here’s their conclusion:

“In Part 1 of the CAMU test, OASH identified at least 15 medical conditions where there is widespread current experience with medical use of the substance in the United States by licensed HCPs operating in accordance with implemented state-authorised programs, where the medical use is recognised by entities that regulate the practice of medicine. These conditions include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), autism, cachexia, cancer, chronic pain,Crohn’s disease, epilepsy or condition causing seizures, glaucoma, HIV/AIDs, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, persistent/severe muscle spasm, persistent/severe nausea, PTSD, and spasticity.”

The Future of Cannabis in PTSD Treatment

“The Long-Term, Prospective, Therapeutic Impact of Cannabis on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder” - “Participants who used cannabis were 2.57 times more likely to no longer meet DSM-5 criteria for PTSD at the end of the study observation period compared to participants who did not use cannabis” Source

Cannabis Use as an Alternative to Prescription and Over-the-counter Medication Use Among US Military Veterans - “Medicinal cannabis use was reported to improve quality of life and reduce unwanted medication use by many of the study participants. The present findings indicate that medicinal cannabis can potentially play a harm-reduction role, helping veterans to use fewer pharmaceutical medications and other substances” Source

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Disclaimer: The content provided in this newsletter by BudMed Bulletin is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the use of medical cannabis.