Scientists demonstrate THC-predominant cannabis flower effective in managing PTSD symptoms in UK civilian study
Article written by Adam Isaac Miller
Read time: 3 mins
A recent study published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids has demonstrated that cannabis flos (flower) which contains high levels of THC improved symptoms associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in U.K. civilian patients. Two of the more notable markers were related to improvements in quality and general mood.
Researchers found that patients reported a 21.1% reduction in PTSD symptoms after approximately three months after therapeutic use of cannabis – further improvements were noted at six months. The study reviewed data from 58 patients who enrolled in Project Twenty21, a multi-centre registry for patients designed to collect data on patient use.
A standardised flower product containing 20% THC was used across the study and study participants noted improvements across multiple symptoms associated with PTSD, this included intrusive memories, mood alterations, and sleep disturbances.
Dr. Guillermo Moreno-Sanz, the study's senior author, stated: "Our analysis revealed that controlled inhalation of THC-predominant cannabis flowers was associated with meaningful clinical improvements. The most prominent effects were seen in sleep quality and the ability of patients to engage in activities they had previously enjoyed."
The researchers assessed seven aspects of cannabis usage across the patient group and analysed responses using a qualified questionnaire related to PTSD, quality of life, mood and sleep. The key finds from the study included:
A 13-point reduction in global PTSD symptom severity at three months
Additional improvements noted at a 16.8-point reduction at six months
Enhancement of sleep and quality of mood
Sustained benefits in managing intrusive memories and emotional regulation
Dr. Waseem Sultan, one of the researchers shared: "What's particularly interesting is that these improvements were maintained or even increased at the six-month follow-up, suggesting the potential for long-term therapeutic benefit."
The researchers noted that the study had limitations related to the experience base of patients regarding previous cannabis use. Roughly 96% of participants had used cannabis previously which may influence the results. Furthermore, the absence of a control group means additional studies are required to validate the treatment data for cannabis-naïve patients.
The study outcomes come during a time where healthcare professionals are effective treatments for PTSD symptoms, as unfortunately existing therapies often show high dropout rates and varying levels of success.
Adam has spent a decade working with unregistered medicines, specialising in Cannabinoid Therapeutics, where he has supported the development, implementation and market entry of multiple cannabinoid product portfolios across Australia, New Zealand, Germany and Brazil. Before working in the medical cannabis field, Adam spent nearly ten years building various B2B businesses in education, investment, and medicinal cannabis, progressing through roles in business development, strategy, product development, and project management. As one of the early experts in Australia's emerging cannabis industry, he has consulted for private and listed cannabis producers and ancillary businesses since 2015. Adam founded and served on the board of The Medical Cannabis Council, Australia's first not-for-profit industry body. A graduate of the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Entrepreneurship, he is a frequent public speaker and publishes a widely read industry newsletter. His expertise has been featured in major news outlets, including the Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian Financial Review, Nine News, Startup Smart, SBS, SkyNews, MJBizDaily and other prominent publications.
Disclaimer: This information is shared with a global readership for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or business advice. All patient-related information has been de-identified OR fictional to protect privacy. Nothing in this article is intended to promote the use or supply of medical cannabis to members of the public.
