PTSD and Cannabis: New NICE Evidence Review Published

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published a new evidence review on cannabis-based medicinal products for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), finding moderate evidence of benefit for specific patient populations. The review analysed 18 randomised controlled trials and 12 observational studies. The review found that THC-dominant products showed the most consistent benefit for PTSD, particularly for reducing nightmares and improving sleep quality - symptoms that respond poorly to many existing treatments. CBD-only products showed less consistent results for PTSD specifically, though benefit was noted for associated anxiety. NICE stopped short of recommending NHS prescription for PTSD, citing the quality of available evidence as "moderate" and calling for larger UK-specific trials before endorsing widespread use. However, the review acknowledged that existing NHS treatment pathways leave many PTSD patients without adequate symptom control. Dr. Hannah Crossfield of the Centre for Anxiety, Trauma and PTSD at King's College London said the review was "an important step": "We've known anecdotally that cannabis helps many patients with trauma. Having NICE acknowledge the evidence base, even cautiously, is significant for the field." The review is expected to inform prescribing guidelines for specialist cannabis clinics and may increase NHS willingness to fund cannabis treatment in specific PTSD cases.