BMC Psychiatry
January 16, 2020
Jerome Sarris, Justin Sinclair, Diana Karamacoska et al.
247 citations
Evidence for medicinal cannabis in psychiatry is still early and not yet strong enough to recommend cannabinoid-based treatments. Isolated studies suggest cannabidiol (CBD) may help reduce social anxiety, and there is mixed but mainly positive evidence for its use alongside antipsychotics in schizophrenia. Case studies hint at benefits for sleep and post-traumatic stress disorder, but the evidence is weak. High-THC treatments show no benefit for depression, and CBD does not help mania. One study found a possible effect of an oral cannabinoid/terpene combination for ADHD. Caution is advised with high-THC formulas, especially in youth and people with anxiety or psychotic disorders, and gradual dosing and regular monitoring are recommended.
Psychopharmacology
January 11, 2021
Nicole Leite Galvão‐coelho, Wolfgang Marx, Maria González et al.
143 citations
Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca may improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms more than placebo, with effects appearing within hours and lasting up to 60 days. A meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials involving 257 participants (124 healthy volunteers and 133 patients with mood disorders) found moderate significant effect sizes favoring psychedelics for acute mood improvements in both groups and for longer-term mood benefits in patients. For patients with mood disorders, significant reductions in depressive symptoms were seen acutely, at 2–7 days, and at 16–60 days after treatment. Although unblinding and expectancy are concerns, the strength, speed, and durability of effects support further placebo-controlled trials.
Journal of Translational Medicine
October 2, 2020
Lara Sharpe, Justin Sinclair, Andrew Kramer et al.
122 citations
Acute doses of cannabidiol (CBD) reduce anxiety in both animals and humans without causing anxiety at higher doses, while tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) commonly produces anxiety, especially at higher doses. Epidemiological studies support an anxiolytic effect from CBD, THC, or whole-plant cannabis, but human clinical studies show THC often triggers anxiogenic responses. Cannabinoid therapies containing primarily CBD may be more suitable for people with pre-existing anxiety or as an adjunct for managing anxiety or stress-related disorders. Further research is needed on other cannabis constituents like terpenes, and more clinical trials involving patients with anxiety disorders are warranted.
BMC Medicine
July 6, 2026
Hannah Adler, Rebecca Filipic, Dr Maria Gonzalez et al.
Healthcare professionals show interest in psychedelic-assisted therapy with psilocybin for existential distress in people with cancer, but face knowledge gaps, barriers, and a desire for more research. Interviews with 11 professionals from Australian cancer centers revealed four themes: varied knowledge about the therapy, conceptualizing its practical use, navigating complex provision and engagement, and envisioning future applications. Professionals preferred delivery by multidisciplinary teams that are culturally sensitive and ethically rigorous. Some saw it as a last resort, while others viewed it as another needed tool. The findings offer preliminary insights into implementation pathways for this therapy in oncology settings.