Medical use of cannabis and psychedelics in treating symptoms of mental disorders among military and veteran populations: A systematic review
Hou-yu Zhao, Kun Liang, Yiqun Fang
Theoretical and Natural Science March 5, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.54254/2753-8818/32/20240910 via OpenAlex
Summary
Military personnel and veterans show different mental disorder prevalence and treatment responses compared to the general population. A systematic review of eight studies, five on cannabis and three on psychedelics, indicates that most reported positive results for treating mental disorders, although detailed side effects and long-term follow-up data were limited. The findings highlight potential benefits but also emphasize the need for more high-quality randomized controlled trials.
Study at a glance
| Design | systematic review |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 8 |
| Population | military personnel and veterans |
| Key finding | Most studies reported positive results for the medical use of cannabis and psychedelics in treating mental disorders in military populations. |
Abstract
Military personnel and veterans experience distinct trauma exposures, resulting in totally different mental disorder prevalence, comorbidities, and treatment responses compared to the general population. The medical use of psychoactive substances as novel strategies for specific mental health conditions within military contexts is being investigated, while their therapeutic efficacy and safety remain uncertain. This systematic review aims to summarize the available evidence for the medical use of these substances, mainly cannabis and psychedelics, in treating symptoms of mental disorders in military populations. A systematic search was conducted in Medline, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from inception until May 16th, 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. References of relevant papers and high-quality reviews were also hand-searched. The included studies were randomized controlled trials, self-controlled trials, and case reports that explored the use of cannabis or psychedelics for the treatment of mental disorders in military and veteran populations. Two independent reviewers screened all studies and performed data extraction. Eight studies were included, with five focused on cannabis and three on psychedelics. Most of the studies reported positive results, but detailed information on side effects and long-term follow-up was limited. In conclusion, the potential benefits yet the lack of high-quality RCTs underscore the need for more rigorous research in this field.