Current scientific evidence does not justify the use of medicinal cannabinoids to treat six mental health conditions, a new meta-analysis conducted by Australian researchers concludes.
Cannabinoids do not seem to be able to relieve depression, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Tourette’s syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychosis.
The meta-analysis included 83 studies involving some 3,000 subjects.
The medicinal cannabinoids include therapeutic cannabis and pharmaceutical cannabinoids, as well as their synthetic derivatives, THC and cannabidiol (CBD). These products are available in Canada.
The lead author of the meta-analysis, Dr. Louisa Degenhardt of the University of New South Wales in Sydney, said in a statement that in countries where medicinal cannabinoids are available, doctors and patients must be aware of the limitations of currently available evidence and the risks associated with cannabinoids .
Several studies show that non-therapeutic cannabis can increase the incidence of depression, anxiety and psychotic symptoms.
The findings of this meta-analysis are published by the medical journal The Lancet Psychiatry.
