Citation

Pillai M, Erridge S, Bapir L, Nicholas M, Dalavaye N, Holvey C, Coomber R, Barros D, Bhoskar U, Mwimba G, Praveen K, Symeon C, Sachdeva-Mohan S, Rucker JJ, Sodergren MH. Expert Rev. Neurother. 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Future Science Group)

DOI

10.1080/14737175.2022.2155139

PMID

36503404

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The current paucity of clinical evidence limits the use of cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study investigates health-related quality of life (HRQoL) changes and adverse events in patients prescribed CBMPs for PTSD.

METHODS: A case-series of patients from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry was analyzed. HRQoL was assessed at 1-, 3-, and 6-months using validated patient reported outcome measures (PROMs). Adverse events were analyzed according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.050.

RESULTS: Of 162 included patients, 88.89% (n = 144) were current/previous cannabis users. Median daily CBMP dosages were 5.00 (IQR: 0.00-70.00) mg of cannabidiol and 145.00 (IQR: 100.00-200.00) mg of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Significant improvements were observed in PTSD symptoms, sleep, and anxiety across all follow-up periods (p < 0.050). There were 220 (135.8%) adverse events reported by 33 patients (20.37%), with the majority graded mild or moderate in severity (n = 190, 117.28%). Insomnia and fatigue had the greatest incidence (n = 20, 12.35%).

CONCLUSIONS: Associated improvements in HRQoL were observed in patients who initiated CBMP therapy. Adverse events analysis suggests acceptability and safety up to 6 months. This study may inform randomized placebo-controlled trials, required to confirm causality and determine optimal dosing.

Language: en

Keywords

PTSD; post-traumatic stress disorder; tetrahydrocannabinol; Cannabidiol; medical cannabis